Dr. Emily Kirby Says Timing is Everything for Children Who Need Plastic Surgery
Fort Worth, Texas doctor emphasizes the importance of early reconstructive surgery for pediatric patients.
Fort Worth, Texas, November 24, 2014—Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Emily Kirby advocates for addressing physical deformity in children according to specific timelines.
“Medically speaking, there are certain ‘golden’ times to perform plastic surgery on a child,” says Kirby. “Ear molding, for instance, is only possible during the first 6 weeks of a child’s life and may make it possible to avoid ear pinning—which is most appropriate to pursue between 6 and 7 years old. Aside from issues caused by trauma, most procedures yield the best result when done in the correct window of time.”
One of Dr. Kirby’s specialities is corrective plastic surgery for children. She sees many pediatric patients in need of surgery to address birth defects such as cleft lip or palate, ear malformation, skull deformities, and issues related to trauma in early life.
“Acting at the right time may also prevent the need for more invasive procedures in the future. Children begin to develop their sense of self at an early age and addressing physical concerns before they create emotional complexes is extremely important. ” says Kirby. “My main goal when treating a child is to create symmetry and achieve as natural-looking results as possible.”
Headlines about pediatric plastic surgery are often meant to shock, touting titles such as “mother allows young child to have plastic surgery,” when in fact, many children are born with birth defects that are easily corrected through plastic surgery. Leaving a physical deformity untreated can cause a lifelong negative impact on the emotional and physical well-being of a child.
According to Dr. Kirby, “if a child feels alienated because of a physical defect, it can create real problems with self-esteem and development. Children want to feel accepted by their peers and may have trouble fitting in if they do not feel confident.”
Reports on the matter suggest that children with untreated physical deformation have far-reaching behavioral problems that affect psychosocial growth, the ability to fit in with peers, or assimilate socially.
Helping a child have a brighter future and a sense of self is the aim and if surgery is necessary, doing so at the appropriate time is crucial. The success of pediatric plastic surgery is highly dependent on timing and consulting with a board certified surgeon is the first step.
About Kirby Plastic Surgery: Dr. Emily J. Kirby is a board certified plastic surgeon specializing in aesthetic and reconstructive procedures; she is also a member of the American Association of Pediatric Plastic Surgeons. For more information, visit kirbyplasticsurgery.com or read some of Dr. Emily Kirby’s reviews.
Media Contact: Randol Kirby, (817) 292-4200
