Hemifacial microsomia is a congenital condition in which one side of the face develops differently than the other. The condition most commonly affects the lower jaw, ears, and surrounding facial structures, leading to differences in facial symmetry and bone growth. The severity can vary widely, with some individuals experiencing mild asymmetry and others requiring more comprehensive craniofacial treatment.
At McKinnon Plastic Surgery, surgical treatment for hemifacial microsomia is performed by Dr. McKay McKinnon, a plastic surgeon with specialized training in craniofacial reconstruction. Dr. McKinnon completed advanced craniofacial fellowship training in Paris under Dr. Paul Tessier, whose work helped establish the modern field of craniofacial surgery. His surgical career has included the treatment of complex congenital facial conditions that require detailed planning to restore both functional development and facial balance.
What Is Hemifacial Microsomia?
Hemifacial microsomia is a condition in which the bones and soft tissues on one side of the face do not fully develop during early fetal growth. The condition most frequently affects structures derived from the first and second branchial arches, which contribute to the formation of the jaw, ear, and surrounding facial tissues.
Because the lower jaw and facial bones grow unevenly, individuals with hemifacial microsomia may develop facial asymmetry that becomes more noticeable as the child grows. The condition can involve both bone and soft tissue differences.
In some cases, hemifacial microsomia may also affect the ear or hearing structures.
Common Features Of Hemifacial Microsomia
The physical characteristics associated with hemifacial microsomia vary depending on the structures involved. Some individuals may have only mild facial asymmetry, while others experience more significant structural differences.
Common features may include:
- Underdevelopment of one side of the lower jaw
- Facial asymmetry
- Differences in ear development
- Chin deviation toward the affected side
- Soft tissue differences in the cheek or jaw region
These changes may affect facial balance, dental alignment, or airway development.
Surgical Treatment For Hemifacial Microsomia
Treatment for hemifacial microsomia is individualized based on the severity of the condition and the structures involved. Surgical procedures are often performed in stages as a child grows.
Procedures may involve reconstruction or repositioning of facial bones, correction of jaw alignment, or soft tissue reconstruction to improve facial symmetry. In some cases, jaw reconstruction or distraction techniques may be used to gradually lengthen the underdeveloped side of the jaw.
Careful surgical planning allows treatment to support normal facial growth and functional development.
Long-Term Care And Secondary Procedures
Because hemifacial microsomia affects facial development throughout childhood, treatment may continue over several years. As the facial skeleton matures, additional procedures may be recommended to refine symmetry and address structural differences.
Long-term care often involves coordination with orthodontists, pediatric specialists, and other craniofacial team members to support both functional health and facial balance.
Why Choose McKinnon Plastic Surgery For Hemifacial Microsomia Treatment?
Hemifacial microsomia requires specialized expertise in craniofacial reconstruction due to the complex anatomy of the facial bones and surrounding soft tissues. Dr. McKay McKinnon has spent decades treating congenital craniofacial conditions involving facial asymmetry and structural differences.
After completing his plastic surgery residency at the University of Miami, Dr. McKinnon pursued advanced craniofacial fellowship training in Paris under Dr. Paul Tessier, whose techniques helped shape modern craniofacial surgery. His experience includes complex reconstructive procedures for congenital facial conditions and tumor-related reconstruction.
Dr. McKinnon personally performs craniofacial surgical procedures with careful attention to restoring facial balance, supporting functional development, and planning for long-term growth.
Hemifacial Microsomia Treatment In Chicago, IL & Coral Gables, FL
Hemifacial microsomia requires specialized craniofacial evaluation and surgical treatment to address facial asymmetry and structural development. Patients in Chicago, IL and Coral Gables, FL seeking expert treatment for hemifacial microsomia can contact McKinnon Plastic Surgery at (312) 335-9566 in Chicago or (305) 753-1400 in Coral Gables to schedule a consultation.
