Craniofacial Surgery – Restoring Patients with Skull and Facial Differences

Craniofacial surgery is a subspecialty of plastic surgery that addresses a wide range of congenital, developmental, and acquired abnormalities of the skull and face. These conditions can affect both appearance and essential functions like breathing, feeding, and speech. For many patients, craniofacial surgery offers a life-changing solution, restoring not only physical form but also appearance, confidence, and quality of life.

What Are Craniofacial Abnormalities?

Craniofacial abnormalities can be present at birth, develop over time, or result from trauma or various medical conditions. Some common conditions include:

• Craniosynostosis: A condition where the bones of the skull fuse too early, leading to an abnormal head shape and an increased propensity for headaches, among other issues. Surgery can reshape the skull and expand the space in which the brain grows.
• Cleft Lip and Palate: A gap in the lip or roof of the mouth that can affect feeding, speech, and appearance. Surgery is typically performed at specific time points in infancy and early childhood depending on the degree of involved facial structures and symptoms. 
• Hemifacial Microsomia: Underdevelopment of one side of the face, often affecting the jaw and ear. Surgery is geared  toward improving symmetry and function.
• Developmental and Acquired Jaw Deformities: Misaligned jaws, commonly referred to as overbites or underbites, can be corrected through orthognathic surgery to improve chewing, speaking, breathing, and facial balance.
• Trauma or Tumor-Related Deformities: Injuries or surgeries to remove tumors, or irregular bone growth such as fibrous dysplasia, can leave significant defects. Reconstructive surgery can restore both form and function.

How Does Craniofacial Surgery Help?

Craniofacial surgery is tailored to the unique needs of each patient. The goals are to:

• Restore Function: Improve breathing, speech, and eating, among other vital functions.
• Enhance Appearance: Create a more balanced and symmetrical facial structure.
• Boost Confidence: Help patients feel more comfortable and confident in their appearance.

For example, a child with craniosynostosis may undergo cranial vault remodeling to reshape the skull, while an adult with a jaw deformity might benefit from orthognathic surgery to realign the jaw. Each procedure is carefully planned to achieve an ideal outcome and minimize complications.

What Can Patients Expect?

Craniofacial surgery is performed under general anesthesia and varies depending upon the complexity of the procedure. For these reasons, recovery times also vary. Some patients stay 1 or 2 nights in the hospital, while others go home the same day. Patients are closely monitored to ensure proper healing and may require additional therapies, such as speech therapy or orthodontic treatment, to achieve optimal results.

 

Why Choose Dr. Demetri Coombs for Craniofacial Surgery?

Dr. Demetri Coombs is a craniofacial and plastic surgeon with enhanced training in reconstructive and aesthetic surgery of the craniofacial skeleton. His commitment to quality, safety, and compassionate care ensures that each patient receives a tailored and thoughtful approach to achieving their goals.

Whether you’re seeking treatment for a congenital condition like cleft lip and palate, corrective surgery for a jaw deformity, or reconstruction after trauma, Dr. Coombs combines advanced surgical techniques with a desire to understand each patient’s needs. His goal is not only to restore function and appearance but also to empower patients to live their lives with confidence.

If you or a loved one is facing a craniofacial abnormality, don’t hesitate to reach out to Dr. Demetri Coombs. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a brighter, more confident future.