KUALA LUMPUR: Faisal Halim's serious injuries from an acid attack have cast doubt on his football career.
The severity of the injuries suggests a challenging road ahead for Faisal who suffered fourth-degree burns involving muscles, bones, and nerves which require a prolonged healing process.
National football star Faisal, 26, was splashed with concentrated sulphuric acid by unknown assailants while entering his car at a shopping mall in Damansara last Sunday.
Dr Noor Ameera Rahmat, a dermatologist, however, cautioned that it is premature to assess whether the injuries could end his career.
However, she said patients with fourth-degree burns often struggle to achieve full recovery, and this may make it difficult for Faisal.
"There is a chance for (Faisal) to recover, but achieving 100 per cent recovery is challenging, perhaps only 30 to 40 per cent is feasible.
"This will involve numerous surgeries, each requiring meticulous monitoring due to the severity of the burns.
"If the burns are classified as fourth-degree, healing may take months, with surgeries alone necessitating 17 to 21 days.
"Depending on the wounds' progress and Faisal's overall health, recovery could be expedited. However, the career impact remains uncertain until we observe his healing journey," said Dr. Ameera.