In 1983, The Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery was established at Childrens Hospital Los Angeles. During the last 16 years it has become one of the largest and most respected pediatric plastic surgery centers in the country. Four plastic surgeons have over 6,500 patient visits and perform more than 1,200 major surgeries per year.

The center treats children with deformities resulting from birth and from previous medical treatment. Facial abnormalities such a cleft lip and palate, hemangiomas (vascular tumors), microtia (missing or malformed ears), craniosynostosis (premature fusion of the skull), and jaw deformities are treated through our Craniofacial and Cleft Center. In addition, the division offers complex burn care, treatment for congenital and traumatic problems of the hand, and deformities of the breast. We also see children who may experience deformity as a result of cancer treatment. Patients come from all over the United States and span the complex social, economic and cultural groups affected by facial deformities. Patients range in age from birth to twenty years of age.

We receive many questions on when surgery should be preformed. Our philosophy is this: Surgery depends to some extent on the condition that is being treated. But, in general, the earlier we can treat a problem the better. Young children often have less anxiety and heal more quickly and better than older children. Our surgeons evaluate each child independantly and make a professional recommendation as to when surgery should take place.