Paediatric craniofacial surgery

Need to know

• What happens during surgery? icon plus

  If your child needs craniofacial surgery, you will see an expert multidisciplinary team which may include: ENT specialists, general paediatricians, plastic surgeons, oral surgeons and neurosurgeons. They will work together to provide the best course of treatment for your child’s needs.
  
  At HCA UK, your child will benefit from a personal care plan that is overseen by your consultant and a dedicated craniofacial expert. If craniofacial surgery is the best treatment option for your child, your consultant will discuss the procedure with you and what to expect.

• How to prepare icon plus

  Before deciding on the best surgical treatment option for your child, your consultant may carry out a number of tests and scans. This may include:

  • CT scan
  • X-rays
  • eye tests

  Once the tests have been completed, your consultant will fully explain the preferred surgical option and answer any questions you have. As with all surgery, there may be some risks and side effects involved, these will be fully explained to you.
  
  The surgery may take a long time due to its complexity and your child will be asleep under general anaesthetic so they won’t feel any pain or distress. They will have to avoid food and drink for a few hours before the procedure.

• After surgery icon plus

  After the surgery, your child will probably feel drowsy and may be a little uncomfortable. Our specialist paediatric nurses will be on hand to offer pain relief and reassurance.
  
  Depending on how complex your child’s surgery was, they may need to be cared for in hospital or in our paediatric rehabilitation unit for an extended period of time. They may also need some follow-up procedures.
  
  Your consultant will fully explain everything so you know what to expect and can fully support your child throughout. They will work closely with you and family members to ensure your child makes a full recovery.