Why Would My Child Need a Plastic Surgeon? Common Reasons for Referral

Some children are born with differences in how parts of their body develop. Pediatric plastic and craniofacial teams specialize in treating these conditions over time.
Common examples include:

• Cleft lip and palate—sometimes detected during pregnancy 
• Ear shape concerns, including conditions treated with newborn ear molding

If your child has a congenital condition, they’ll have a team of experts behind them, always coordinating their care. Together, our pediatric specialists focus on both function and appearance as your child grows and develops.  
 

2. Injuries and Trauma

Active kids are more prone to accidents, and plastic surgeons often play an important role in treating injuries—especially those involving the face.

This can include:

• Facial lacerations (cuts that may need careful repair) 
• Facial fractures, including injuries to the nose, cheek bones, or orbits
• Burns 

The goal is not only to treat the injury, but to expedite healing, lessen scarring, and improve long-term function.  

>>If your child has been injured or has been referred for evaluation, our pediatric plastic surgery team can help you understand the next steps.

Some children are referred for concerns related to the structure of the nose, especially when it affects breathing.

One common example is deviated septum. 

These issues may develop after injury or as a child grows, and evaluation helps determine whether treatment is needed now or later.

4. Masses, Skin Lesions and Growths

It’s common for children to develop:

• Skin lesions 
• Cysts or lumps 
• Birthmarks or moles 

While many are harmless, some may need to be removed due to growth, location, or irritation. A pediatric plastic surgeon can guide whether observation or treatment is the best approach—and how to do so with the best cosmetic outcome.
 

5. Scar Management and Keloids

Some children develop noticeable or bothersome scars over time. 

•    Keloids (raised scars that grow beyond the original injury which could be acne, piercings, surgery or cuts) 
•    Hypertrophic scars (thick, raised scars) 
•    Widened scars 
•    Scars that tighten the skin and affect movement 

Plastic surgeons offer a range of treatments to improve both the appearance and flexibility of skin affected by scars over time.
 

As children grow into adolescence, some may develop conditions that affect the chest or breast tissue.

These can include:

• Breast asymmetry 
• Macromastia, or enlarged breasts in proportion to overall body size
• Gynecomastia, or enlarged breast tissue in boys

Even though chest and breast tissue conditions are often not medically urgent, they can impact a teen’s comfort and confidence. That is why a dedicated pediatric plastic surgery team takes a holistic approach to each individual child. 

>>Related: Is Breast Surgery Right for My Teen? 
 

7. When Your Pediatrician Recommends a Specialist

Your pediatrician might refer you to a pediatric plastic surgeon if: 

• A condition needs further evaluation 
• Timing of treatment is important 
• A specialist’s expertise can help guide next steps 

It’s important to know that a consultation doesn’t always mean surgery—it’s a chance to understand your options and make the best decision for your child.
 

Connecticut Children's is Here to Help!

Being referred to a pediatric plastic or craniofacial surgeon can feel unexpected, but it’s a common step for many families.
These specialists are trained not just in surgery, but in caring for children—taking time to explain, reassure, and guide you through every step.