Craniofacial Surgery

At Prof Chrysis Sofianos Plastic Surgery Johannesburg, we specialise in advanced craniofacial surgery to address congenital conditions affecting the head, face, and skull. With a compassionate and personalised approach, we aim to improve functionality, appearance, and overall quality of life for children and adults living with congenital craniofacial abnormalities.

What is Craniofacial Surgery for Congenital Conditions?

Craniofacial surgery is a specialised field of plastic and reconstructive surgery focused on correcting congenital abnormalities of the skull, face, and jaw. These conditions, present at birth, can impact appearance, breathing, speech, and vision. Surgical intervention helps restore normal anatomy, improves function, and enhances quality of life.

Common Congenital Conditions Treated with Craniofacial Surgery

1. Craniosynostosis

Craniosynostosis occurs when one or more of the sutures in a baby’s skull close prematurely, resulting in abnormal head shapes and, in severe cases, increased intracranial pressure.

Types of Craniosynostosis:

Sagittal: Causes a long, narrow head shape.
Coronal: Leads to asymmetry in the forehead and eye area.
Metopic: Creates a triangular forehead shape.
Lambdoid: Results in flattening at the back of the skull.
Treatment: Surgery repositions the bones of the skull to allow for normal brain growth and head shape.

2. Cleft Lip and Palate-Associated Deformities

While cleft lip and palate repair addresses the immediate concern, some patients require craniofacial surgery for associated issues such as maxillary (upper jaw) underdevelopment.

Treatment: Corrective procedures enhance facial balance and function.

3. Apert Syndrome and Crouzon Syndrome

Both are genetic conditions involving premature fusion of cranial sutures, often accompanied by facial deformities.

Treatment: Surgical correction addresses cranial shape, orbital (eye socket) positioning, and midface development.

4. Treacher Collins Syndrome

This rare genetic disorder causes underdevelopment of the cheekbones, jaw, and other facial structures.

Treatment: Surgery enhances facial symmetry, improves airway function, and restores aesthetics.

5. Hemifacial Microsomia

A condition where one side of the face is underdeveloped, affecting the jaw, ear, and cheek structures.

Treatment: Reconstructive procedures restore symmetry and function.

6. Pierre Robin Sequence

Characterised by a small lower jaw (micrognathia) that can cause breathing and feeding difficulties.

Treatment: Jaw surgery or airway management procedures address functional concerns.

Advanced Techniques in Craniofacial Surgery

Cranial Vault Remodeling

A procedure to reshape the skull in cases of craniosynostosis. This technique allows normal brain growth and improves head shape.

Distraction Osteogenesis

This innovative method gradually lengthens bone to correct jaw or facial asymmetry, offering a less invasive alternative to traditional grafting.

Orbital Reconstruction

Surgery to correct eye socket positioning in conditions such as Apert and Crouzon syndromes, restoring normal vision and appearance.

Midface Advancement

Used for conditions like Treacher Collins and Crouzon syndromes, this procedure repositions the midface for better aesthetics and functionality, such as improved breathing and speech.

Timing and Multidisciplinary Approach

Craniofacial surgery often involves a multidisciplinary team, including plastic surgeons, neurosurgeons, orthodontists, and speech therapists, to provide comprehensive care.

Timing of Surgery: Many congenital conditions require early intervention, typically in infancy or early childhood, to optimise functional and aesthetic outcomes. However, some procedures may be staged as the patient grows.

Benefits of Craniofacial Surgery

Restored Functionality: Improves breathing, speech, vision, and feeding.
Enhanced Appearance: Addresses asymmetry and other aesthetic concerns.
Improved Confidence: Empowers patients to lead fulfilling lives.
Holistic Care: Combines functional and aesthetic outcomes for comprehensive results.

Why Choose Prof Chrysis Sofianos for Craniofacial Surgery?

Prof Chrysis Sofianos brings world-class expertise and advanced surgical techniques to the treatment of congenital craniofacial conditions. With a patient-centred approach, he ensures compassionate care and life-changing outcomes.

Specialised Training: Extensive experience in complex craniofacial procedures.
Comprehensive Care: From diagnosis to recovery, Prof Sofianos provides seamless, multidisciplinary care.
Personalised Solutions: Every surgical plan is tailored to the unique needs of the patient.

Your Craniofacial Surgery Journey

1. Personalised Consultation

During your consultation, Prof Sofianos will:

Conduct a detailed evaluation of the congenital condition.
Discuss the surgical plan, timeline, and expected outcomes.
Provide guidance on pre- and post-operative care.

2. Surgical Procedure

Using state-of-the-art techniques, Prof Sofianos performs craniofacial surgeries with precision, focusing on both functional and aesthetic restoration.

3. Recovery and Follow-Up

Recovery: Initial healing occurs within weeks, but complete recovery may take months, depending on the procedure.
Follow-Up: Regular monitoring ensures optimal results and ongoing support for functional development.

FAQs About Craniofacial Surgery

1. At what age should craniofacial surgery be performed?

The timing varies by condition. Craniosynostosis, for example, is typically addressed in infancy, while other procedures may be staged as the child grows.

2. Are craniofacial surgeries covered by medical insurance?

Many congenital conditions qualify as medically necessary, and surgery is often covered by insurance. Check with your provider for specific details.

3. Is craniofacial surgery painful?

Surgery is performed under general anaesthesia, ensuring no pain during the procedure. Post-operative discomfort is managed with medication.

4. Can adults undergo craniofacial surgery for congenital conditions?

Yes, adults can benefit from craniofacial surgery to address unresolved congenital issues or improve aesthetics and function.

Transform lives with expert craniofacial surgery for congenital conditions at Prof Chrysis Sofianos Plastic Surgery Johannesburg. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn how our personalised care and advanced techniques can make a difference for you or your child.