Craniofacial Program

When your child is diagnosed with a craniofacial condition, your entire family may struggle with seemingly endless questions and concerns. At Boston Children’s Hospital, our compassionate health professionals are here to help you every step of the way. Our world-renowned experts from several key disciplines will work together to develop the best possible treatment plan for your child.

The Craniofacial Program at Boston Children’s is one of the largest of its kind in the United States, offering specialization in both in rare and common syndromes. Common craniofacial conditions we treat include:

• Apert syndrome, Pfeiffer Syndrome, Crouzon syndrome, and many other genetic disorders that involve the abnormal growth of the skull and face.
• Craniosynostosis: a condition in which the sutures between the plates of the skull fuse too early during a child’s development
• Cleft lip and cleft palate: an opening in the lip and/or roof of the mouth. Learn more about the Cleft Lip and Palate Program.
• Encephaloceles: a rare neural tube defect where brain membranes protrude through openings in the skull

Learn more about all of our craniofacial conditions and treatments.

Why Choose the Craniofacial Program at Boston Children’s Hospital

Families seeking the very best care for their child come to Boston Children’s for our:

• Nationally recognized care: U.S. News & World Report ranks Boston Children's Hospital higher in more specialties — including neurosurgery — than any other children's hospital in the country. Our team leverages the broad expertise throughout Boston Children’s Hospital to ensure extraordinary management of every aspect of your child’s wellbeing.
• Surgical expertise: Our world-renowned surgeons perform hundreds of surgeries each year, using the most advanced and minimally invasive techniques whenever possible. These techniques result in minimal scarring and faster recoveries.
• Research and innovation: Our clinicians are involved in research that moves us closer to a better understanding of — and treatment for — all craniofacial conditions of the head and face.
• Customized treatment: Our team will develop a customized treatment plan that meets your child's physical, emotional, and social needs — one that involves you and your family at every step of the treatment, from diagnosis to craniofacial surgery and recovery.
• Team approach: Our Craniofacial Program includes some of the world’s most experienced neurosurgeons, plastic surgeons, oral and maxillofacial (jaw) specialists, dentistry professionals, nursing professionals, psychologists, and social workers — all working together to address the many needs of your child and your entire family.