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When to Consider Pediatric Plastic Surgery

When most people outside of the medical community think of plastic surgery, they think of cosmetic procedures performed on older women and men. They do not tend to think of children. There are cases, however, in which pediatric plastic surgery is both appropriate and necessary. A few examples of conditions which may warrant surgical intervention are outlined below. If you do decide to pursue pediatric plastic surgery for a child, be sure to use a reputable medical center, such as Austin Pediatric Surgery.

Birthmarks or Scars

Many people are born with birthmarks. Some are too small and unobtrusive to warrant surgical intervention, and others fade or disappear on their own within a few years. Other birthmarks, are large or harmful enough that many physicians will recommend that they be surgically removed. External hemangiomas, for example, are bright red marks which appear on the skin due to an excessive development of blood vessels. While some hemangiomas are mild, harmless and disappear on their own, others may need to be removed by a pediatric plastic surgeon Austin due to potential damage to surrounding tissue.

Scars, which can result from commonplace and tragic incidents alike, may require surgery if they are severe enough to dramatically impact a child’s appearance or quality of life.

Cleft Palate

cleft lip or cleft palate develops in a fetus when the mouth and lip tissue fails to join together correctly. A cleft lip presents as a split in the upper lip, which often extends up to the gums and base of the nose. A cleft palate is similar, but presents as a split at the top of a child’s mouth. Surgery is generally recommended to correct a cleft lip or cleft palate, since children with this birth defect can experience issues including difficulty breastfeeding, dental problems, and challenges in speech and language development.

Breast Issues

When issues with breast development arise, children and adolescents may suffer both physical and psychological effects. Those who develop especially large breasts or asymmetrical breasts can experience back pain, issues with finding clothes that fit, and difficulty being active or participating in sports. If your child has developed in this way and is experiencing these symptoms, you may wish to consider breast reduction surgery. Breast reduction surgery may be covered by insurance, and it may also have a positive effect on your child’s quality of life and self-esteem.

If your child has any of the conditions described above and his or her condition is sufficiently severe, you may wish to consider surgery. Be sure to consult with one or more qualified medical professionals and consider any potential risks before making your decision.

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