Craniofacial tumors are abnormal growths that develop in the bones or soft tissues of the face and skull. These tumors may occur in areas such as the orbit surrounding the eye, the eyelids, facial bones, or deeper structures of the craniofacial skeleton. Craniofacial tumors, whether benign or malignant, require early evaluation and intervention to prevent permanent damage.
At McKinnon Plastic Surgery, craniofacial tumors are evaluated and treated by Dr. McKay McKinnon, a board-certified plastic surgeon with specialized training in craniofacial surgery. Dr. McKinnon completed a craniofacial fellowship in Paris under Dr. Paul Tessier, whose pioneering techniques helped establish the modern field of craniofacial surgery. His surgical background includes decades of experience treating complex facial conditions involving delicate anatomical structures.
Types Of Tumors That May Affect The Craniofacial Region
A variety of tumors can occur in the craniofacial area. These may be benign or malignant, and each type requires careful diagnosis and treatment planning.
Examples include:
- Basal cell carcinoma
- Squamous cell carcinoma
- Giant nevus
- Ameloblastoma
- Fibroma
- Fibrous Dysplasia
- Rhabdomyosarcoma
- Sarcoma
- Neurofibromatosis
- Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumor (MPNST)
- Mucocele
- Teratoma
- Adenocarcinoma
- Graves Disease
- Gardner’s Syndrome
The vast complexity of craniofacial tumors often requires coordination among specialties such as neurosurgery, radiology, ENT, Oncology , Genetics, Ophthalmology, etc.
When Is Surgery Recommended?
Surgical removal is often recommended when a craniofacial tumor continues to grow, causes symptoms, or threatens nearby structures such as the eyes, nerves, or airway passages.
In some cases, surgery is also necessary to obtain a definitive diagnosis through pathological examination of the tissue. Removing the tumor allows physicians to determine the exact nature of the growth and whether additional treatment is required.
Because of the delicate structures involved, surgical treatment requires careful planning to remove the tumor while preserving important facial functions.
Reconstruction After Tumor Removal
Following tumor removal, reconstruction may be necessary to restore facial structure and protect surrounding tissues. The specific reconstructive technique depends on the size and location of the tumor as well as the structures involved.
Reconstructive approaches may include:
- Rearranging nearby tissue to restore contour
- Repairing or rebuilding affected bone structures
- Reconstructing eyelid or orbital structures
- Restoring symmetry and facial balance
The goal of reconstruction is to preserve both function and appearance whenever possible.
When To Seek Evaluation For Craniofacial Tumors
Medical evaluation is recommended if an individual notices:
- A persistent lump or swelling on the face or scalp
- Changes in the eyelids or tissue around the eye
- Unexplained facial swelling or asymmetry
- Changes in vision related to structures around the eye
- Numbness or altered sensation in part of the face
Early evaluation allows for proper diagnosis and treatment planning before tumors affect nearby structures.
Why Choose McKinnon Plastic Surgery For Craniofacial Tumor Treatment?
Craniofacial tumor surgery requires specialized expertise in both tumor removal and facial reconstruction. Dr. McKay McKinnon has spent decades treating complex craniofacial conditions involving the bones, nerves, and soft tissues of the face.
After completing his plastic surgery residency at the University of Miami, Dr. McKinnon pursued advanced craniofacial fellowship training in Paris under Dr. Paul Tessier. Throughout his career he has managed complex facial conditions, including tumor-related reconstruction and neurofibromatosis cases that require careful surgical planning.
Dr. McKinnon personally performs craniofacial tumor surgery along with the frequent teamwork of a neurosurgeon.
Craniofacial Tumor Surgery In Chicago, IL & Coral Gables, FL
Craniofacial tumors require careful diagnosis and specialized surgical treatment due to the complex anatomy of the face and skull. Patients in Chicago, IL and Coral Gables, FL seeking evaluation or treatment for craniofacial tumors can contact McKinnon Plastic Surgery at (312) 335-9566 in Chicago or (305) 753-1400 in Coral Gables to schedule a consultation.
