|
|
What is
hemifacial microsomia?
- Hemifacial
microsomia is a condition in which the structures on one side
of the face are smaller or underdeveloped and are not the same
as the other side. The ear and the mandible are always affected
although severity varies widely between individuals.
- When both
sides of the face are affected to different degrees, the condition
is then referred to as bilateral hemifacial microsomia.
How is hemifacial
microsomia treated?
- The goal
of treatment for children with hemifacial microsomia is to balance
the appearance of the two sides of the face as much as possible.
- Depending
on the particular characteristics of a child's condition of a
child's condition, surgery and/or orthodontics may be recommended.
- Ear reconstruction
begins at about 6-7 years of age and involves 3-4 surgeries.
- Jaw reconstruction
includes lengthening the lower jaw, sometimes using bone grafting
or a distraction device.
- To fill out
the cheek or other areas of the face, some individuals benefit
from soft tissue augmentations to balance the two sides of the
face. This is done at the end of the growth period.
- Routine
hearing tests must be done to insure adequate hearing and to detect
any loss which may require intervention.
- A child with
hemifacial microsomia may encounter social and emotional challenges
unique to this condition. Support organizations and resources
are available for children and their families (see Support
Information).
|
|
