What you need to know when you child is having Craniofacial Surgery

Your child will be discharged once they have recovered. This includes:

• Both eyes must be open so they can see.
• The wound must be clean, dry, and without any skin openings.
• Your child must be drinking well and regaining their appetite.
• Your child should be comfortable and pain-free.

The Craniofacial Nurse Specialist will visit you on the ward to answer any questions before you leave.

• Always wash and dry your hands before touching the wound.
• Keep your child’s nails clean and short. If they are old enough, explain the importance of not rubbing or picking at the wound.
• Your child’s nurse will help you wash their hair and wound before discharge.
• Feel around your child’s head while washing as it may still be swollen.
• Use the provided clear gel ointment on the wound until finished.
• Wash hair (including the wound) with gentle shampoo as demonstrated by the nurse.
• Conditioner may be used but avoid the wound area.
• Absorbable sutures will dissolve naturally; if non-dissolvable sutures were used, removal instructions will be provided.
• Sutures close the wound within 10 days, dissolve and fall away after 21 days.
• If scabs form, apply Vaseline or olive oil 2-3 times a day.
• If redness or warmth occurs around the plates and screws, monitor for infection signs (fever, pain, wound odor). Contact a medical professional if needed.

• Swelling may last 2-3 weeks post-surgery.
• "Lumps and bumps" are normal as the swelling reduces.
• The plates and screws take up to 2 years to absorb as the head shape adjusts.

• If your child has a minor bump, comfort them, offer pain relief, and observe them.
• For more serious falls, visit your GP or local hospital. It is not necessary to go to Temple Street Children’s Hospital.
• A medical professional can contact the Craniofacial/Plastic Surgery team for advice.

• Continue over-the-counter pain relief for up to one week, gradually reducing dosage.
• Give pain relief before washing the wound for the first week at home.
• Your child’s nurse will provide guidelines for Paracetamol and Ibuprofen us

• Ensure your child stays hydrated.
• Appetite may be reduced post-surgery but should return within one to two weeks.
• Offer small, nutritious meals regularly.

• Sleep patterns may be disrupted for a few weeks.
• Your child will gradually return to their normal routine.

• Keep your child out of school or crèche for six weeks until their first post-surgery appointment.
• Avoid activities that could cause a head injury (cycling, skateboarding, swimming, contact sports).
• If playing outside in hot weather, have them wear a hat or bandana and avoid sun exposure on the wound.
• Keep your child out of school or crèche for six weeks until their first post-surgery appointment.
• Avoid activities that could cause a head injury (cycling, skateboarding, swimming, contact sports).
• If playing outside in hot weather, have them wear a hat or bandana and avoid sun exposure on the wound.

• Avoid flights until after the first post-surgery appointment.
• Discuss any essential travel with the medical team.

• Vaccination schedule may continue after the first post-surgery appointment.

• If your child is unwell post-surgery, consult your GP.
• Most common illnesses (teething, tummy upsets, ear infections) are not related to craniofacial surgery.
• Your GP can contact the hospital for advice if needed.