Rhinoplasty/Cheiloplasty

What is Rhinoplasty/Cheiloplasty?

Nasal surgery, technically referred to as rhinoplasty, and / or lip surgery also referred to as revision cheiloplasty, may be necessary to improve the appearance and function of the nose and lip which have been distorted with growth after a cleft lip, palate or other craniofacial surgery. The nose may appear flattened, or there may be asymmetry of the nose. There may be nasal obstruction due to a small nostril or a deviated septum. Surgery to revise the appearance of the lip and/or nose may take place before the child starts school or during the teenage years, depending on the recommendations of the plastic surgeon.

Preparing for Your Child's Surgery

You will be given a pre-operative information packet that explains everything you should do and know before your child's surgery date. Your surgeon will give you specific instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including guidelines on eating and taking or avoiding certain vitamins and medications.

If you are traveling to the University of Michigan from out of town and plan to spend an overnight or your child will require several days of hospitalization, click here for a partial list of places to stay that offer discounts for patient's families. To reach the Patient & Visitor Hotel Accommodations Program, call (800) 544-8684 or (734) 936-0135.

Mott Operating & Recovery Rooms

Your child's surgery will take place at the University of Michigan's C.S. Mott Children's Hospital which provides state-of-the-art, "child friendly" surgical suites and recovery areas. Visit the Mott Children's Hospital OR & Recovery Room page for a "virtual tour" of the operating and recovery areas, before, during, and after surgery information, frequently asked questions and answers for parents and children, and much more.

Types of Anesthesia

Anesthesiologists and nurse anesthetists at Mott Children's Hospital are all trained and experienced in pediatric anesthesia and caring for pediatric patients. Your child will remain comfortable throughout the entire procedure. In most cases, general anesthetic is used so that your child will sleep throughout the procedure; although local anesthesia with intravenous sedation is also an option for some patients.

After Your Child's Surgery

It is very important that you follow your surgeon's instructions in order to promote healing and progress. Also, it is important that you attend all follow-up appointments scheduled so that your surgeon can assess your child's long-term results and answer any questions or concerns you may have.