Hemifacial Microsomia

Hemifacial Microsomia, though challenging, offers hope for enhanced facial symmetry and function through advanced surgical interventions, providing individuals with improved confidence and quality of life.

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*Real Patient

Improve Facial Symmetry with Dr. Panossian in Pasadena

Experiencing asymmetry in your face caused by Hemifacial Microsomia can cause deep insecurities that hamper your quality of life. Dr. Panossian understands this emotional impact, from concerns about appearance to challenges with everyday functions like chewing and speaking. With his expertise in craniofacial surgery and a dedication to personalized care, Dr. Panossian offers advanced procedures to improve facial symmetry and functionality. Trained at top institutions like the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto and Harvard Medical School, Dr. Panossian is a recognized leader in the field, assuring you that you're in capable hands with hope for a better future. If you’re in Glendale, Pasadena, or the surrounding areas, Dr. Panossian is your guide to improved facial symmetry.

Understanding Hemifacial Microsomia

Hemifacial microsomia is characterized by undergrowth or malformations of the craniofacial skeleton, affecting one side of the face. It presents challenges ranging from subtle to severe deformities, impacting various facial structures and functions. Hemifacial microsomia, a subset of craniofacial microsomia, occurs in approximately 1 in 3,000 to 25,000 live births, making it the second most common craniofacial anomaly after cleft lip and palate. The severity of the condition is often classified based on the extent of lower jaw deformity, known as the Pruzansky classification. The underlying cause of hemifacial microsomia remains largely unknown, although it is believed to result from genetic and environmental factors. While many syndromic conditions may include hemifacial microsomia, most cases are isolated and lack a known cause. The condition arises during fetal development when precursor tissues responsible for facial development fail to form properly, particularly affecting the first and second branchial arches.

woman closing her eyes with her head facing forward

Causes and Associated Factors

The exact cause of hemifacial microsomia remains largely unknown, although genetic and environmental factors may contribute to its development. This condition often presents various associated problems, including jaw deformities, ear anomalies, facial nerve weakness, eye abnormalities, and other congenital malformations. Children with hemifacial microsomia may experience various associated problems, with the severity of visible deformity varying from subtle to extreme. The most common manifestation is a small lower jaw with a shifted chin point, which can lead to bite irregularities or malocclusion. External ear involvement is common, with the potential for microtia or anotia (underdeveloped or absent ear), skin tags, and sinus pits around the ear. Facial nerve involvement may result in one-sided facial weakness or paralysis, while cheekbone deficiency and downward displacement of the outer eye corner are also observed. Other congenital deformities may coexist with hemifacial microsomia, affecting various organ systems such as the spine, gastrointestinal tract, heart, kidneys, and lungs. While certain syndromes like Goldenhar and Treacher Collins may feature hemifacial microsomia characteristics, most cases occur as isolated occurrences within families, suggesting a multifactorial inheritance pattern.

Hemifacial Microsomia Treatment Options

If you or someone you love lives with the challenges of Hemifacial Microsomia, such as struggling with facial asymmetry and functional limitations, your quality of life can feel severely diminished. Dr. Panossian in Pasadena, CA, offers specialized treatments to restore facial symmetry and function, providing hope and relief to individuals affected by this condition. His expertise in craniofacial surgery and facial reconstruction enables him to offer the following advanced treatment options:

Temporalis Myoplasty: Dr. Panossian performs temporalis myoplasty, a surgical technique that utilizes the temporalis muscle to restore movement and symmetry to the affected side of the face. Patients can achieve improved facial expression and function by repositioning the temporalis muscle.
Gracilis Muscle Transplant: In cases requiring more extensive muscle transfer, Dr. Panossian may recommend a Gracilis Muscle Transplant. This procedure involves transferring the gracilis muscle from the thigh to the face, providing dynamic movement and enhancing facial symmetry.

A Comprehensive Approach

Effective treatment for Hemifacial Microsomia requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the condition's aesthetic and functional aspects. Dr. Panossian collaborates with a multidisciplinary team of specialists to ensure patients receive holistic care tailored to their unique needs. Alongside craniofacial surgery, other specialists contribute to the comprehensive management of Hemifacial Microsomia:

Otolaryngologists: Otolaryngologists specializing in craniofacial and reconstructive surgery may reconstruct ears and manage hearing loss associated with hemifacial microsomia.
Speech-Language Pathologists: Speech therapy is vital in addressing speech and swallowing difficulties that may arise due to craniofacial anomalies. Speech-language pathologists provide therapy to improve articulation, resonance, and oral motor function.
Psychologists and Counselors: Managing the psychosocial impact of Hemifacial Microsomia is essential for promoting emotional well-being and social integration. Psychologists and counselors offer support and guidance to individuals and families, helping them cope with the challenges associated with the condition.
Orthodontists: Orthodontic treatment may be necessary to correct dental and skeletal abnormalities and ensure proper alignment and function of the jaws and teeth.

By combining surgical expertise with a multidisciplinary approach, Dr. Panossian and his team provide comprehensive care that addresses the complex needs of individuals with Hemifacial Microsomia. Through personalized treatment plans and compassionate support, quality of life is improved, and confidence in their appearance and abilities is restored.

Recovery and Prognosis

Recovery from surgical interventions for Hemifacial Microsomia varies depending on the specific procedures performed and the individual patient's response to treatment. While some interventions may require brief hospitalization and a few weeks of limited activity, others can be performed on an outpatient basis with shorter recovery times. Dr. Panossian's expertise in craniofacial surgery ensures that patients receive personalized care and support throughout their recovery journey. Following surgery, patients may undergo a period of postoperative rehabilitation to optimize outcomes and facilitate recovery. This process may include physical therapy, speech therapy, and other supportive interventions to promote healing and restore function. Despite the challenges associated with Hemifacial Microsomia, many patients experience significant facial symmetry and function improvements following surgical intervention. Dr. Panossian's commitment to excellence and ongoing care ensures that patients achieve the best possible outcomes and regain confidence in their appearance and abilities.

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Risks and Potential Complications

As with any surgical procedure, there are inherent risks and potential complications associated with surgeries for Hemifacial Microsomia. While serious complications are rare, patients and their caregivers should be aware of the possibility of bleeding, infection, and anesthetic complications. Additionally, achieving perfect symmetry may only sometimes be attainable, and revision surgery may be necessary to address residual issues.

Dr. Panossian and his team prioritize patient safety and strive to minimize the risk of complications through careful preoperative planning, meticulous surgical technique, and attentive postoperative care. By closely monitoring patients throughout the recovery process and addressing any concerns promptly, they ensure that patients experience a smooth and successful recovery from surgery for Hemifacial Microsomia.

Why Choose Dr. Panossian?

Dr. Panossian is a distinguished expert in craniofacial surgery, offering unparalleled expertise in treating Hemifacial Microsomia. With comprehensive training from esteemed institutions like Tufts University School of Medicine and UCLA, Dr. Panossian brings a wealth of knowledge and skill to his practice. His specialized training in craniofacial surgery at the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto and Harvard Medical School, coupled with mentorship from renowned experts like Dr. Ron Zuker, underscores his expert level of knowledge when it comes to facial anatomy and paralysis reconstruction. With a focus on patient-centered care and a proven track record of excellence, Dr. Panossian is the premier choice for individuals seeking treatment for Hemifacial Microsomia. If you're in Glendale, Pasadena, or the greater Los Angeles area and seeking improved facial symmetry and function, we invite you to consult Dr. Panossian.