This rare genetic condition affects development of bones and tissues in the head and face and causes abnormalities in the lower eyelids, cheekbones, cheeks, ears, and lower jaw. Typically, both sides of your child's face are affected equally.
With Treacher Collins syndrome, soft tissue in the lower eyelid, cheek, cheekbones and lower jaw are underdeveloped causing the eyes to slope downward. There is inadequate bone support and soft tissue for the cheeks, eye sockets and lower eyelids. Your child also may have a large overbite and recessed chin.
In addition, your child's ears may be small, malformed or missing, which is called microtia. Sometimes children with Treatment Collins syndrome have an abnormally large mouth, difficulty breathing and hearing loss.
Treacher Collings syndrome causes a range of abnormalities from subtle abnormalities that can go untreated to severe abnormalities that require multiple corrective surgeries. Treatment for Treacher Collins syndrome is customized to your child's unique condition and situation.
The Procedure
Dr. Muzaffar brings expertise in craniofacial reconstruction to improve function and appearance. He will evaluate your child early in life and meet with you several times before your child has surgery at the appropriate time for your child's condition. Dr. Muzaffar works with other specialists as needed to provide expert, tailored care for your child.
Reconstruction often begins with the cheekbones if the lower jaw is not severely underdeveloped. Next, he may reconstruct the soft tissue of the lower eyelids and cheeks.
When the lower jaw is extremely small and causing breathing difficulties, Dr. Muzaffar may reconstruct this area first while your child is an infant. This may be done either with a bone graft or a technique to elongate the jaw by slowly stretching it with a special device.
Dr. Muzaffar may perform ear reconstruction either before or after jaw reconstruction. During adolescence, your child will require another jaw alignment surgery.
If the lower jawbone isn't severely affected, then Dr. Muzaffar may wait to surgically reposition the upper and lower jaws until your child reaches adolescence.
Your child may need other surgeries depending on how much the condition affects your child's head and face development.
The recovery process after surgery will vary based on the type of procedure your child requires. Your doctor will provide you with specific instructions about your child's care after surgery.
