Her Story
About Tessie
Tessie Harfuch Capdevila is an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon practicing at Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery of Chicago in Chicago, Illinois. She completed her dental training in Mexico before pursuing advanced training in oral and maxillofacial surgery at the University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine, where she completed a four-year CODA-accredited residency from 2021 to 2025. She is board certified by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and is a member of the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons.
Tessie’s professional experience spans general dentistry, oral surgery, and advanced surgical care, with skills including orthognathic surgery, conscious sedation, oral sedation, craniofacial surgery, and cosmetic dentistry. Before completing her residency, she practiced as a general dentist in Mexico City and served as a teacher assistant for an oral surgery course at Universidad Anáhuac México. Her training has also included an oral and maxillofacial surgery internship at the University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine, along with research and published work in her field.
Beyond clinical practice, Tessie has demonstrated a strong commitment to service through her volunteer work with Operation Smile México, where she supported cleft lip and palate campaigns as a dentist and oral surgery volunteer. She brings perseverance, passion, and dedication to her work, particularly in a specialty traditionally dominated by men. Outside of medicine, she applies the same determination to athletics, participating in marathons, triathlons, and other sports.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Tessie
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to perseverance and my determination to keep going, even when things get challenging.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice is to persevere, even when your goals feel difficult to achieve. Push through obstacles, embrace challenges, and get comfortable with being uncomfortable—you’ll be more likely to reach your goals and achieve your dreams.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges is working in a male-dominated field. I believe it’s important for women to recognize their capabilities, demonstrate their skills, and show that they can succeed and perform just as effectively.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Passion and dedication are the values I consider most important. When I put my heart into what I do, whether in my work or the sports I practice, I give it my full commitment and strive to do my best.
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