CRANIOFACIAL RECONSTRUCTION
CAPE TOWN
Craniofacial reconstruction surgery is designed to correct genetic conditions and deformities of the face and skull, and may also be required due to trauma, tumours, or complications from infections.
Dr Frank works closely with a multidisciplinary team, including neurosurgeons and paediatric anaesthetists, to ensure comprehensive and specialised care for each patient.
CONSULTATION TODAY
Fill out the form below to book your one-on-one consultation with Dr Frank.
RECONSTRUCTIVE PROCEDURES
ABOUT
CRANIOFACIAL RECONSTRUCTION
Craniofacial reconstruction is a complex surgical procedure designed to reshape and reconstruct facial structures.
By employing a multidisciplinary approach, the conditions associated with craniofacial deformities of the skull and face are effectively addressed. The goal of craniofacial reconstruction is to restore both functionality and aesthetics while prioritising the patient’s overall health and developmental needs.
For children with craniofacial anomalies, early surgery can minimise the impact of these conditions on growth, development, and function.
CRANIOSYNOSTOSIS
THE CONDITIONS TREATED WITH
CRANIOFACIAL RECONSTRUCTION
Dr Frank focuses on treating Craniosynostosis, a condition where one or more of the soft joints in a baby’s skull close too early. These joints, called sutures, allow the skull to expand as the baby’s brain grows.
When a suture closes prematurely, it restricts skull growth, which can cause an unusual head shape and, in some cases, increase pressure inside the skull. The type of craniosynostosis depends on which suture closes too soon, affecting head shape in different ways:
SAGITTAL SYNOSTOSIS
The condition causes a long, narrow head shape.
CORONAL SYNOSTOSIS
Leads to an asymmetrical shape or a wide, short head.
METOPIC SYNOSTOSIS
Results in a triangular forehead and closer-set eyes.
To correct craniosynostosis, surgery is often necessary to reopen the closed suture and allow the skull to expand naturally as the child’s brain grows. Surgery is typically needed to reshape the skull and allow for proper brain growth. In children under the age of 2, early surgery has shown effective outcomes, promoting normal development.
WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER
OUTCOMES OF
CRANIOFACIAL RECONSTRUCTION
The outcomes of craniofacial reconstruction can be transformative for children. These include:
IMPROVED
FACIAL SYMMETRY
Many children experience a significant enhancement in their facial appearance after surgery, which can lead to increased confidence and social interaction.
ENHANCED
FUNCTIONALITY
Correcting structural abnormalities can improve functions such as breathing, eating, and speaking, enabling children to engage more fully in daily activities.
REDUCED
COMPLICATIONS
Timely surgical intervention can prevent severe complications, such as airway obstruction or increased intracranial pressure, which can arise from untreated craniofacial deformities.
SUPPORT FOR
DEVELOPMENT
Treatment can positively impact psychological development and social adjustment, providing children with the opportunity to thrive without the stigma of facial deformities.
INDICATIONS
WHO ARE PATIENTS THAT NEED
CRANIOFACIAL RECONSTRUCTION
Children with specific genetic conditions or those who have experienced trauma, tumours, or complications from infections resulting in craniofacial deformities, are typically the patients in need of craniofacial reconstruction.
Symptoms that may indicate a need for craniofacial reconstruction include:
Candidates:
- Abnormal head shape
- Difficulty breathing due to facial structure
- Vision problems related to eye positioning
- Facial asymmetry
- Problems with eating or speaking
- Increased pressure in the skull
AFTER SURGERY
CRANIOFACIAL RECONSTRUCTION
RECOVERY
Recovery from craniofacial reconstruction surgery varies based on the complexity of the procedure performed. Key aspects of recovery include:
POST-OPERATIVE
MONITORING
Due to the complexity of craniofacial reconstruction, patients typically need to stay in the hospital for several days post-surgery. During this time, the patient’s condition will be closely monitored to ensure a stable recovery and to manage any immediate complications if they arise.
NUTRITION AND
SPECIAL DIET
In the days following surgery, patients are often placed on a soft or liquid diet to avoid straining the jaw and facial areas. Nutritional support is critical for optimal healing, and Dr Frank will advise on a diet that is easy on the recovery area while ensuring the patient’s body gets the nutrients it needs.
SWELLING AND
DISCOMFORT
Swelling and discomfort are normal parts of the healing process after craniofacial reconstruction. The swelling may be noticeable for several weeks. Detailed instructions will be provided on how to manage any discomfort the patient may feel, including pain medications and proper care techniques.
FOLLOW UP
APPOINTMENTS
Regular follow-up visits will be scheduled to monitor healing and ensure that recovery is progressing well. Children will need to avoid strenuous activities for a period to promote healing. Parents will be provided with clear guidelines on what activities are safe and when to gradually reintroduce normal routines.
GET IN TOUCH
BOOK YOUR
CONSULTATION
Fill out the form to book a one-on-one consultation with Dr Frank.
He will answer all of your questions and create a plan for the procedure.
CALL US
Cape Town: +27 21 418 1558
Tygervalley: +27 21 914 0272
Dr Frank’s team will reach out to you to arrange a date and time for your appointment.
