Unlock Advantages in Neurofibromatosis Treatment
When it comes to treating Neurofibromatosis, a specialized approach is key. Board-certified facial plastic surgeon in Pasadena, CA, Dr. Andre Panossian and his team offer cutting-edge treatments designed to improve quality of life and health outcomes. Discover the compelling benefits of our holistic approach to Neurofibromatosis care.
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What is Neurofibromatosis?
Neurofibromatosis is a genetic condition that causes the development of tumors on virtually any nerve in the body, including the brain and spinal cord. It is usually diagnosed in childhood and can be inherited from an affected parent in approximately one-half of patients. In other words, there is roughly a 50 percent chance that an affected parent will pass on the condition. In the remainder of patients, there is no known previous family history. Currently, there are 3 types of neurofibromatosis identified.
Dr. Andre Panossian has been treating patients with neurofibromatosis for more than a decade. He recognizes the unique requirements and challenges faced by individuals with NF. His primary focus is in the surgical removal of NF tumors almost anywhere on the body, including major peripheral nerves. Throughout his approach, Dr. Panossian implements a logical surgical plan that takes into account the physiology of neurofibroma tumors. He frequently meets with patients from all over the world through seminars and conferences as well as Skype. Dr. Panossian is always striving to improve surgical techniques to minimize scarring and to maintain long-term reduction of tumors.
Diagnosis of Neurofibromatosis
The diagnosis of neurofibromatosis is a multi-step process that involves a thorough evaluation of clinical symptoms, family history, and various diagnostic tests:
- Physical Examination: Identifying characteristic signs such as café-au-lait spots, Lisch nodules in the eyes, and the presence of neurofibromas.
- Genetic Testing: Crucial for confirming NF1 and NF2, especially in cases where symptoms are not definitive. Genetic counseling is often recommended to understand the implications of test results.
- Imaging Tests: MRI scans are pivotal in detecting tumors in the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. For NF2, detailed imaging of the auditory nerves is essential to assess the impact on hearing.
- Specialized Exams: Eye examinations to detect Lisch nodules and other ocular manifestations, and hearing tests for NF2-related auditory nerve tumors.
Treating Neurofibromatosis
What do I do next?
If you have been doing your research on plastic surgeons for your cosmetic or reconstructive needs, then look no further. Dr. Panossian combines his passion for plastic surgery with a strong focus on patient well-being. The consultation is only the first encounter that will leave you feeling confident in your decision to pursue plastic surgery. Dr. Panossian’s wealth of knowledge in the field is matched only by his highly skilled hand in the operating room. Rest assured that your best interests and desires for the absolute finest result is at the heart of his entire approach.
Andre Panossian MD
Expert Care for People Living with Neurofibromatosis
Dr. Andre Panossian has been treating patients with neurofibromatosis for more than a decade. He recognizes the unique requirements and challenges faced by individuals with NF. His primary focus is in the surgical removal of NF tumors almost anywhere on the body, including major peripheral nerves. Throughout his approach, Dr. Panossian implements a logical surgical plan that takes into account the physiology of neurofibroma tumors. He frequently meets with patients from all over the world through seminars and conferences as well as Skype. Dr. Panossian is always striving to improve surgical techniques to minimize scarring and to maintain long-term reduction of tumors.
“For many years, people with neurofibromatosis have been told that there is little to be done.”
Dr. Panossian believes that a thoughtful surgical strategy can improve the lives of patients living with NF.
Types of Neurofibromatosis
Neurofibromatosis Type 1
Type 1 neurofibromatosis is the most common type with approximately 1 in 3000 people in the US having the condition. It is linked to a gene mutation, approximately 50 percent of individuals with the condition have no known family history.
Neurofibromatosis Type 2
Type 2 neurofibromatosis usually occurs within the central nervous system and the cranial nerves of the head and neck area. The main feature involves tumor formation along the 8th cranial nerve, called acoustic neuromas.
Schwannomatosis
This rare condition involves tumor formation on large peripheral nerves (such as the sciatic nerve) throughout the body. It differs from NF-2 in that there are no acoustic neuromas. There are also no skin findings in most cases.
Awards
Best Paper Award by The PRS
Dr. Panossian has received the highest honor bestowed by the Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Journal, the pre-eminent publication of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Read about his ground-breaking smile reanimation technique.
Neurofibromatosis Treatments
Surgical Excision
The mainstay of treatment, surgical excision is the primary intervention for neurofibromatosis. In simple terms, it involves surgically removing large tumors of the skin and underlying tissues through a traditional incision. However, there are many considerations in the treatment of individuals with neurofibromatosis. A strategy must be developed preoperatively for safe removal and for optimal results.
Electrodesiccation
This newer treatment for neurofibromatosis targets the multitude of surface tumors that can occur in Type 1 NF. These tumors typically occur in patients who are in their 20’s and 30’s and continue to enlarge over time. They also multiply in number causing significant disfigurement in some people. Electrodesiccation is a treatment that destroys tumors of a certain size by the hundreds.
Treatment Approaches
Treatment for neurofibromatosis is tailored to the individual’s symptoms and may involve a combination of therapies:
- Surgical Intervention: The removal of tumors, especially those causing pain, neurological deficits, or other functional impairments. Surgery for NF2-related tumors may focus on preserving hearing and balancing functions.
- Medications: Pain management is a key aspect, particularly for schwannomatosis. In some cases, medications like Selumetinib are used to treat specific tumor types.
- Regular Monitoring and Supportive Care: Continuous monitoring for the development of new symptoms or growth of existing tumors. This may include regular MRI scans and consultations with a team of specialists.
- Physical and Occupational Therapy: To address mobility issues, pain, and to improve the quality of daily life.
Living with Neurofibromatosis
Living with this condition requires ongoing management and support:
- Multidisciplinary Care: Regular consultations with a team of healthcare professionals, including neurologists, dermatologists, surgeons, and genetic counselors.
- Educational and Psychological Support: For children, special educational support may be necessary. Psychological counseling can help patients and families cope with the challenges of the condition.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Adapting to physical limitations and learning to manage symptoms as part of daily life. Joining support groups can provide emotional support and practical advice.
- Regular Health Check-ups: Essential for early detection of complications like malignant transformation of tumors or other related health issues.
Are You Ready For A Consultation?
If you are considering this procedure, booking a consultation with an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Panossian is a great way to learn about the procedure and determine if it’s right for you.
Andre Panossian MD
Philosophy
Plastic surgery is such a personal choice. It is important to have all the necessary information you need to make an informed decision…one that you will feel great about for a lifetime. That doesn’t mean picking just any plastic surgeon. We believe that your health and safety comes first. Everything else pales in comparison. Along with this assumption, plastic surgery does not have to be unnecessarily painful or uncomfortable. It should be a positive overall experience with a lifetime of happiness to be gained.
In our practice, we strive to make your experience nothing short of spectacular from the first consultation to your very last postoperative visit. Dr. Panossian and his staff are available to answer any and all of your questions throughout this process so that you leave with nothing short of a 5-star experience in every way.
Why choose Dr. Panossian?
- He received his medical education at Tufts University School of Medicine.
- Graduated at the top of his class at UCLA, receiving Phi Beta Kappa and Summa Cum Laude honors.
- Was accepted into an elite combined general surgery and plastic surgery residency at the Keck School of Medicine of USC.
- Completed subspecialty training in craniofacial surgery at the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto and Harvard Medical School.
- Was mentored by Dr. Ron Zuker in the practice of facial paralysis reconstruction. This prestigious fellowship position was available to only one surgeon in the United States.
- Is affiliated with various charitable and educational organizations, including Operation Smile and Mending Kids.
- Is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the highly selective American Association of Plastic Surgeons, reserved for only a select group of individuals nationally who have demonstrated excellence in academic plastic surgery.
- Holds memberships in several other professional societies including the American College of Surgeons and the American Society of Reconstructive Microsurgery.
- He serves on the Board of Directors for Mending Kids and the Gondobay Manga Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to the improvement of lives in Sierra Leone.
- Has been nominated by his peers annually since 2012 as a “Super Doctor.”
- Served as an expert medical consultant and appeared on The Doctors, Grey’s Anatomy, and Nip/Tuck.
- Has been featured as “Top Doctor” in US News and World Report, Pasadena Magazine, and Los Angeles Magazine.
