The Florida Society of Plastic Surgeons

Pediatric Plastic Surgery
in Florida

Pediatric Plastic Surgery refers to reconstructive surgical procedures in the pediatric population, and is generally performed by a subspecialized group of plastic surgeons with additional training in this area. Ages range from neonates to fully-grown, college-age patients of legal age (e.g., 21 years old). After the age of 21 years, patients will typically be encouraged to seek transition of care to adult providers. Pediatric plastic surgery may be required for congenital abnormalities in addition to acquired deformities from traumas, tumors, or other medical conditions.

Jordan P. Steinberg, MD, PhD, FACS, FAAP

When is a pediatric plastic surgeon needed?

Certain procedures are more commonly performed by plastic surgeons specializing in pediatric care settings, such as large children’s hospitals, or in group practices with ready access to children’s care facilities and subspecialized pediatric anesthesia providers. Examples of conditions treated by pediatric plastic surgeons include:

Congenital craniofacial anomalies (e.g., syndromes such Apert, Crouzon, or Treacher Collins)
Cleft lip and palate
Ear malformations or underdevelopment (e.g., microtia)
Hand deformities (e.g., syndactyly/fused fingers)
Vascular birthmarks (e.g., hemangiomas or vascular malformations)
Facial skeletal growth disorders (e.g., Romberg hemifacial atrophy)

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How do I find a pediatric plastic surgeon?

Pediatric plastic surgeons practicing in Florida may be identified on the American Association of Pediatric Plastic Surgeons website (https://pediatricplasticsurgery.org). Alternatively, surgeons with a subspecialization in Pediatric Plastic Surgery may be identified through the Florida Society of Plastic Surgeons (FSPS). FSPS surgeons are:

Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery
Have extensive experience in their respective fields
Maintain hospital privileges to offer safe and effective care for complex diagnoses requiring surgical treatment
Have a commitment to the highest of ethical standards

What are some examples of common pediatric plastic surgical procedures?

While the range of pediatric plastic surgical procedures is broad, common examples include:

Laceration or bite wound repair
Scar revision
Congenital mole (nevus) or cyst excision
Cleft lip and palate reconstruction
Craniofacial surgery (e.g., infant skull reconstruction for craniosynostosis)
Facial trauma reconstruction (e.g., orbital or mandibular fracture)
Otoplasty or microtia reconstruction

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What makes pediatric plastic surgery unique when compared to typical plastic surgery for adults?

In young children, growth over time must be taken into consideration, and may influence both the decision to do surgery as well as the timing of the surgery. Unerupted permanent teeth, facial sinus formation, and changing composition of tissues (e.g., cartilage or bone) can all influence decision-making in pediatric plastic surgical procedures. Patient cooperation can also be an important factor in how surgeries and follow-up appointments are conducted in pediatric patients. Particularly for elective, non-emergent procedures in children, willingness to proceed and having an active role in the recovery process can be key factors in obtaining successful outcomes and positive overall experiences.

Serving Florida Communities Statewide

FSPS surgeons proudly serve patients across Florida, including Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Miami, Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville, Sarasota, Gainesville and beyond.

What Should I Do Next?

Schedule a consultation with an FSPS member and discover how a board-certified plastic surgeon can help you.

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Pediatric Plastic Surgery in Florida