The practice of pediatric plastic surgery in NYC focusses on addressing traumatic injuries and congenital physical issues that may pose functional health problems or cause a child significant psychological distress. Here, we will review some of the most common issues that Dr. Smith treats in children. While any surgical procedure is to be undertaken with serious thought and consideration, plastic surgery in children must be held to an even higher standard. This special level of responsibility stems from the fact that parents and surgeon must work together to undertake a plan of care that is most in line with the interests of the pediatric patient, who may not yet be mature enough to makes these decisions on his or her own.
Expert in pediatric plastic surgery on the Upper East side of New York, NY
If one is considering a plastic surgery procedure for his or her child, it is of critical importance that the surgeon performing the procedure is specifically and rigorously trained in pediatric plastic surgery. Dr. Darren Smith is one of the only plastic surgeons in the nation to have completed a craniofacial surgery fellowship and an aesthetic surgery fellowship. During his craniofacial fellowship at the world-renowned Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto, Dr. Smith became expert on surgery of the child’s face and skull and in cosmetic surgery for kids in New York.
While this training was primarily designed to address congenital anomalies, it also offers critical perspective in addressing facial fractures and soft tissue injuries in children. In addition to treating complex craniofacial surgery cases in Toronto, Dr. Smith also gained extensive experience in managing pediatric burns as the Hospital for Sick Children has one of the busiest pediatric burn units in all of Canada. Dr. Smith’s aesthetic surgery fellowship complements his craniofacial fellowship experience and allows him to approach each case with an eye for the most visually pleasing outcome.
Otoplasty (Ear Surgery / Ear Pinning)
In some cases, a child may have ears (or one ear) that protrudes significantly from the side of the head. This condition can lead to bullying from classmates and negatively affect a child’s self-esteem. Prominent or protruding ears can be easily addressed in an outpatient surgical procedure called an otoplasty. This procedure is most frequently performed at approximately seven years of age, as this is when the ears have completed a significant amount of their growth and also when children and their peers begin to become aware of their appearance.
Lacerations (Cuts and Scrapes)
As children are exploring their environment, playing sports, or just being kids, it is not uncommon for them to get cuts and scrapes. Arrangements can be made for Dr. Smith to treat these injuries in his private office or in some cases to meet you in the emergency room. Please call our office in the event these services are required, and we will be happy to assist you. In a medical emergency, always dial 911.
Burns
There are several different kinds of burns, ranging from flame to steam and electrical, and more. When a child sustains a burn, regardless of the cause, the injury must be taken seriously and addressed by a pediatric burn expert. If your child sustains a severe burn or if there is a medical emergency, dial 911. Dr. Smith can then participate in your child’s care and help ensure that the best possible outcome is achieved.
Congenital Melanocytic Nevi (Birthmarks)
While many children have one or a few small birth marks, in some cases a child may be born with an extremely large birthmark called a congenital melanocytic nevus. While it may be desirable to remove these birth marks for cosmetic reasons, there is also data that indicates that these birth marks may represent an increased risk of a dangerous form of skin cancer called melanoma. Dr. Smith has extensive expertise in managing these lesions and in cosmetic surgery for kids in NYC.
