Pediatric & craniofacial reconstruction restores form and function for children with congenital deformities, such as cleft lip and palate. Dr. Stephen Lu, an expert in this field, uses advanced surgical techniques to enhance both aesthetic appearance and physical functionality, ensuring improved outcomes for young patients with complex craniofacial conditions.
Correct facial and skull deformities in children
Pediatric & craniofacial reconstruction focuses on correcting facial and skull deformities in children, often due to congenital conditions like cleft lip and palate or other birth defects. The goal is to restore both function and appearance, improving the child’s ability to speak, eat, and breathe normally. Dr. Lu specializes in using advanced techniques to create natural, long-lasting results. With personalized care and attention, this surgery not only enhances a child’s physical features but also supports their emotional and social well-being as they grow.
Pediatric & craniofacial reconstruction treats:
- Cleft lip and palate
- Craniosynostosis and skull deformities
- Congenital facial deformities
- Ear deformities such as microtia
- Facial trauma and fractures
- Tongue-tie or other oral abnormalities
- Abnormalities of the jaw or chin
- Facial nerve paralysis or dysfunction
Pediatric & craniofacial reconstruction options
Cleft lip/palate treatment
Cleft lip and palate are common congenital conditions where a gap or opening exists in the upper lip and/or the roof of the mouth (palate). This can affect a child’s ability to feed, speak, and develop normally. Surgical correction typically involves repairing the cleft lip to restore normal lip structure and closing the gap in the palate to improve function. These surgeries often require multiple stages, with the first performed in infancy and follow-up surgeries throughout childhood to address speech or dental concerns.
Congenital deformity treatment
Congenital deformities are physical abnormalities present at birth that affect the development of the face or skull. They can range from minor to severe and may involve the bones, muscles, or soft tissues of the face. Treatment typically includes surgical procedures to reposition facial structures, repair tissue, and restore normal facial appearance. In some cases, additional treatments, such as orthodontics or speech therapy, may be necessary. Dr. Lu helps improve the child’s appearance and quality of life as they grow.
Candidacy for pediatric & craniofacial reconstruction
Pediatric & craniofacial reconstruction is suitable for children with congenital facial deformities, such as cleft lip/palate, craniosynostosis, or other abnormalities. During a consultation, Dr. Lu will assess your child’s condition, discuss their medical history, and conduct a thorough physical examination. The surgeon will evaluate the severity of the deformity, consider the child’s age and developmental stage, and discuss potential treatment options. Together, you and the surgeon will determine the most appropriate course of action for your child.
Advantages of pediatric & craniofacial reconstruction:
- Restores normal facial appearance and symmetry
- Improves speech, eating, and breathing function
- Enhances social development and emotional well-being
- Reduces the risk of future complications
- Provides long-term results with minimal scarring
- Boosts self-esteem and confidence as the child grows
- Allows for early intervention, ensuring optimal growth and development
Pediatric & craniofacial reconstruction FAQs
What age is the best time to start pediatric & craniofacial reconstruction?
The ideal age for pediatric & craniofacial reconstruction depends on the specific condition being treated. For conditions like cleft lip and palate, surgery is often performed when the child is 6 to 12 months old, as this allows for early intervention to aid feeding and speech development. Other facial deformities may require surgery at different ages. During your consultation, Dr. Lu will assess your child’s individual needs and determine the optimal timing for surgery.
What can I expect during the recovery process?
Recovery from pediatric & craniofacial reconstruction depends on the procedure and the child’s age. In general, children may experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed medications. A follow-up appointment is usually scheduled to monitor healing and ensure the surgery’s success. Full recovery may take several weeks to months, and additional procedures may be needed as the child grows.
How many surgeries will my child need?
The number of surgeries required depends on the type and severity of the condition. Some children may only need one surgery, while others may require multiple procedures over the course of their childhood or adolescence to continue improving function and appearance. During your initial consultation, Dr. Lu will outline the treatment plan, including any follow-up surgeries that might be needed to achieve the best results.
Will my child need additional therapies after surgery?
In some cases, additional therapies, such as speech therapy, orthodontic treatment, or physical therapy, may be recommended after pediatric and craniofacial reconstruction. These therapies help address issues related to speech, facial growth, or muscle development and can improve overall outcomes. Dr. Lu will coordinate with other specialists to ensure a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to your child’s care.
Meet Dr. Stephen Lu
Dr. Stephen Lu is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon with extensive training in microsurgery and craniofacial surgery. He specializes in pediatric & craniofacial reconstruction, offering compassionate care and expert surgical techniques to address complex conditions. If your child requires pediatric or craniofacial surgery, schedule a consultation with Dr. Lu to discuss your options and ensure the best possible care for their health and well-being.
