Pediatric Plastic Surgery
Pediatric Plastic Surgery
Pediatric plastic surgery involves surgical procedures aimed at enhancing the appearance and functionality of children who have congenital or acquired anomalies. The primary objective is to improve their quality of life by restoring normal function and enhancing their overall well-being.
Microtia – Ear Deformity:
Microtia is a congenital condition characterized by underdeveloped or malformed external ears. This deformity can range from a smaller ear to a complete absence of the external ear. Reconstructive procedures for microtia involve a meticulous, staged approach. In the initial stage, surgeons often use rib cartilage or synthetic materials to construct a framework beneath the skin on the affected side. Subsequent surgeries focus on refining the ear’s shape and structure to achieve a natural appearance , contributing to an enhanced quality of life for individuals with microtia.
Congenital Craniofacial Deformity:
Congenital craniofacial deformities encompass a range of conditions affecting the skull and face, such as cleft lip and palate, craniosynostosis, and other facial anomalies. Reconstructive procedures for these deformities are tailored to the specific condition. Cleft lip and palate repair involve multiple stages to close gaps and restore normal anatomy. In cases of craniosynostosis, surgeons perform cranial vault reconstruction to address premature fusion of skull bones. Other facial anomalies are addressed through specialized surgical interventions, often including bone grafts and tissue rearrangement. These procedures not only enhance facial aesthetics but also contribute to improved function and overall well-being.
Congenital Hand Defects:
Congenital hand defects encompass various abnormalities in hand and finger development, including syndactyly (webbed fingers), polydactyly (extra fingers), and limb length differences. Reconstructive procedures for syndactyly typically involve separating fused fingers through surgical techniques that may include adjustments to both skin and bone. Polydactyly correction requires the removal of extra digits, followed by reconstructive work on surrounding structures. In cases of limb length differences, surgical techniques such as bone lengthening or shortening may be employed to achieve balance. These reconstructive interventions aim to improve hand function and appearance.