Pediatric plastic surgery is a subspecialty of plastic surgery that focuses on the treatment of congenital and acquired deformities and defects in children. Pediatric plastic surgeons diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions, including cleft lip and palate, craniosynostosis, and brachial plexus birth injuries. They also treat skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis, as well as vascular malformations and tumors. The goal of pediatric plastic surgery is to improve the child's quality of life by restoring normal function and appearance. Pediatric plastic surgeons use various techniques, including reconstructive surgery, microsurgery, and orthopedic surgery, to achieve optimal results. They work closely with other specialists, such as pediatricians, orthopedic surgeons, and otolaryngologists, to provide comprehensive care for children with complex conditions. With experience and expertise in working with pediatric patients, pediatric plastic surgeons are uniquely qualified to address the unique needs of children.
a. Cleft Lip and Palate Repair
Pediatric cleft lip and palate repair is a surgical procedure to correct congenital deformities of the lip and palate, affecting the formation of the mouth and nose. Cleft lip occurs when the lip does not form properly, while cleft palate occurs when the roof of the mouth does not fuse. The procedure typically involves multiple surgeries, starting in infancy. The first surgery, usually performed within the first three months, repairs the cleft lip. Later surgeries, often performed between 6-18 months, correct the cleft palate. Surgery aims to improve speech, eating, and facial appearance. The goal is to restore normal function and self-esteem.
b. Congenital Hand Surgery: Corrects malformations like syndactyly (webbed fingers) and polydactyly (extra fingers).
Congenital hand surgery is a subspecialty of plastic surgery that focuses on correcting birth defects or deformities of the hand. These conditions can range from mild to severe, affecting the shape, function, and mobility of the hand. The most common conditions treated include polydactyly (extra fingers or toes), syndactyly (webbed fingers or toes), and congenital clubfoot. Surgery aims to improve the appearance, function, and mobility of the hand, restoring normal movement and ability. Treatment options include reconstructive surgery, such as osteotomies, resections, and revisions, to correct the underlying anatomy and restore normal hand function.
c. Ear Reconstruction (Otoplasty): Corrects ear deformities or reconstructs absent ears (microtia).
Pediatric ear reconstruction surgery, also known as otolplasty, is a specialized procedure to correct congenital or acquired ear deformities in children. The goal is to restore the natural shape and function of the ear, improving both aesthetics and hearing. Common conditions treated include microtia, a missing or underdeveloped ear, and hemifacial microsomia, a condition where one side of the face is underdeveloped. The procedure typically involves creating a prosthetic ear using cartilage or bone grafts, which are shaped and contoured to match the normal ear. Reconstructive surgery can also address ear canal issues and improve hearing.