Restore your child’s function and appearance with pediatric plastic surgery by Dr. David Morwood, our board-certified plastic surgeon with fellowship training at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. He treats congenital differences such as cleft lip and palate, polydactyly, syndactyly, congenital eyelid ptosis, and burn scar contractures with meticulous, compassionate care.
Before & After Pediatric Plastic Surgery
*Actual Patient Disclaimer: there is no guarantee of specific results and the results can vary.
In Dr. Morwood's Words:
Pediatric plastic surgery requires meticulous technique, an artistic and scientific approach, as well as a willingness to provide support to the families of these children.
David T. Morwood, MD, FACS
The Truth About Plastic Surgery: An Educational Guide for the Consumer
This Procedure Treats:
- Congenital deformities affecting form, function, and development
- Cleft lip and palate causing feeding, speech, and aesthetic concerns
- Ear deformities such as prominent or misshapen ears
- Birthmarks, vascular anomalies, and benign skin lesions
- Traumatic injuries affecting the face, hands, or soft tissue in children
- Functional impairments of the hands, face, or body requiring surgical correction
Correct Congenital Differences in Children
Pediatric plastic surgery is a subspecialty focused on treating infants and children with congenital differences such as cleft lip and palate, polydactyly, syndactyly, and congenital eyelid ptosis, as well as acquired conditions such as burn scar contractures. Dr. Morwood approaches these procedures with meticulous planning and analysis. Because your child may not be able to articulate symptoms or concerns, much of the focus is on educating and guiding you through treatment options, protocols, and realistic expectations.
Pediatric Plastic Surgery Treats:
- Cleft lip and palate, including unilateral, bilateral, incomplete, and complete deformities
- Congenital eyelid ptosis causing visual field obstruction
- Polydactyly (extra digits on the hands or feet)
- Syndactyly (fused digits requiring separation with flaps and grafts)
- Congenital hand differences affecting structure and function
- Burn scar contractures of the hands, arms, chest, and joints
- Post-burn deformities limiting range of motion and function
- Craniofacial differences involving the lip, nose, palate, and alveolar ridge
- Functional concerns like speech, feeding, breathing, and ear health related to cleft conditions
- Aesthetic and structural concerns impacting your child’s growth and development
Types of Pediatric Plastic Surgery Offered
by Dr. Morwood
Cleft Lip and Palate Repair
Cleft lip and palate repair is a carefully timed, staged reconstruction that restores function and appearance. Dr. Morwood performs cleft lip repair using a three-dimensional approach, not simply closing the gap, but realigning the philtrum, Cupid’s bow, and the muscle foundation. Palate repair is performed later to support proper speech development. This process may include nasal alveolar molding (NAM), speech therapy, and additional procedures over time.
Congenital Hand Surgery
Congenital hand surgery addresses differences like polydactyly and syndactyly that affect your child’s ability to grasp, pinch, and perform daily tasks. Dr. Morwood removes extra digits when appropriate and reconstructs the remaining structures to preserve stability and function. In syndactyly, he uses flaps, Z-plasties, W-plasties, and skin grafts to separate fused fingers. These procedures help improve both functional use of the hand and overall appearance.
Congenital Ear Correction
Congenital ear correction focuses on improving the shape, position, and symmetry of the ears when developmental differences are present. Dr. Morwood uses precise surgical techniques to reshape cartilage and reposition the ear closer to the head when needed. By addressing ear differences at the appropriate time, your child can benefit from improved facial balance and reduced self-consciousness as they grow and develop.
Burn Reconstruction and Scar Contracture Release
Burn reconstruction and scar contracture release address functional limitations caused by severe burns, particularly in the hands and joints. Dr. Morwood performs staged procedures involving the careful dissection of nerves and blood vessels, combined with local flaps and skin grafts. Techniques like Z-plasty are used to release tight scar bands and improve the range of motion, restoring your child’s ability to move, grasp, and perform daily activities.
Pediatric Plastic Surgery FAQs
Is My Child’s Condition My Fault?
It is human nature to feel this way, but most congenital differences, including cleft lip and palate, are beyond the control of either parent. There is no reason for you to feel guilty.
Why Can’t My Baby Have Surgery Immediately After Birth?
Although the sense of urgency you feel is completely understandable, safe, high-quality surgery follows established protocols. The “rule of 10s” is commonly used, meaning your baby must be at least 10 weeks old, weigh 10 pounds, and have a hemoglobin of 10. These parameters help minimize anesthetic risk and improve surgical precision.
Will My Child Need More Than One Operation?
That depends on the severity of the congenital difference. A simple or incomplete cleft lip may require only one procedure, while more complex deformities often require multiple staged operations and care from a multidisciplinary team, including ENT physicians, dentists, and speech therapists. Dr. Morwood can guide you through the process during the consultation.
Have More Questions?
Learn More About Pediatric Plastic Surgery in The Truth About Plastic Surgery: An Educational Guide for the Consumer
If you still have questions, Dr. David Morwood’s book, The Truth About Plastic Surgery: An Educational Guide for the Consumer, offers clear, detailed guidance on pediatric plastic surgery using real cases, illustrations, and practical explanations. You will learn about congenital differences, treatment protocols, and what to expect at each stage. This resource aims to educate and reassure you, helping you better understand your child’s condition and the thoughtful, step-by-step approach to care.
Client Testimonials
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Support Your Child’s Growth and Development With Pediatric Plastic Surgery in Monterey
Dr. David Morwood is a board-certified plastic surgeon with fellowship training at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles and decades of experience treating children with congenital differences. During your consultation, you will review your child’s medical history, discuss concerns in detail, and receive clear treatment protocols. Dr. Morwood takes time to answer your questions and guide you through each step of the process. If you are seeking expert care, schedule a private consultation for pediatric plastic surgery in Monterey.
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