Craniofacial Surgery Post-Operative

Appearance

After craniofacial surgery, there may be sutures (stitches) across the top of your child's head from ear to ear. A strip of hair may have been shaven away. Your child will probably be very swollen, and his eyelids may be swollen shut. This will decrease in severity overtime.

Wound Care

The suture line should be kept free of drainage and debris. A special antibiotic ointment will be prescribed for you to keep on the suture line.

Pain

Your child's pain will probably be well controlled by the time he is discharged from the hospital. You may receive a prescription for a pain reliever, possibly Tylenol with codeine, upon discharge from the hospital.

Diet/Activity

Your child will probably be tolerating a regular diet soon after surgery. After surgery your child should not engage in rough activity. A helmet may be prescribed for your child to wear.

When to Call

  • Call if your child develops a temperature (over 101°F), if he has swelling, redness or drainage from the incision, or if you have concerns or questions regarding his progress.

Return to Clinic

An appointment will be made for you to return to the Plastic Surgery Clinic about 3-5 days after discharge. Please make a list of any questions you may have. If you are unable to keep your appointment, it is very important for you to call and reschedule.

For medical questions, please call:

  • Craniofacial Anomalies Program: (734) 764-2582.
  • Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Clinic: 8 AM-5 PM (734) 763-8063
  • After hours and on weekends, call Hospital Paging at (734) 936-6267 and ask for the Plastic Surgeon on call.