Common Questions & Answers

We do not recommend adolescent cosmetic surgery until your child is around 16 or 17, an age when he or she is physically and emotionally mature enough to make such a decision and to appreciate the full extent of the process.

Because these conditions are usually quite complex, it is common for parents to be confused. But the hallmark of University Hospitals Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital is family-centered care. Throughout the process, from testing to surgery to recovery, we will be with you and your child every step of the way. Our team will give you the information you need to make informed decisions and the support you need to help you through the entire process.

Even if your child is too young to understand, a calm, reassuring attitude and your loving touch will let your child know you are by his or her side, as always. If you child is old enough, answer his or her questions in a simple, matter-of-fact way. Once you and your child arrive at the hospital, our child life specialists in the Child Life Department will assist in helping to alleviate your child’s fears and make him or her comfortable.

There is very little pain associated with the actual surgical procedure, thanks to UH Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital’s nationally recognized anesthesiologists. After surgery, team members will see that your child rests and recovers comfortably. Most of the children we treat are happily eating ice cream during recovery, and many go home the next day.

Surgery will not be performed until 6 months of age to reduce the risk involved with anesthesia, so it is not necessary to schedule an appointment immediately. Make an appointment with the pediatric plastic surgery team at your convenience.

Pediatric plastic and reconstructive surgery can be very complex and appointment times tend to run over. Plan accordingly.

If you have never had an appointment with the team before, it is always helpful to see the plastic surgeon first. This way, you have time to meet with the surgeon, take a full medical history and get medical photos if needed. A craniofacial consultation day is very busy and does not allow for you to spend large amounts of time in each appointment.