How much can the scalp be stretched to allow for a skull implant? (photo)

Question

I have a very small, flat head as well as a slanted forehead likely due to some form of plagiocephaly or lack of natural plate expansion.Together they make it look like my head consists of only my jaw. Because of that I am looking to undergo skull augmentation surgery to the entire top of my skull. I've included an image to show the area where augmentation is needed. My question is how many millimeters can the scalp be expanded to allow for a silicone implant without a tissue expander? Thank you

Waldemar Merck, MD · Answer

Dear JohnSnah,Don’t worry, the skin of the scull can be stretched far more than will be necessary in your case. The head is the region where the stretching of the skin works best due to the bony scullcap. This is performed with a skin expander, a small plastic bag, that is inserted in the desired area during the first operation. The implanted expander is inflated to the desired size by the gradual introduction of liquid (physiological saline solution) through a small valve. When the desired size is reached, the expander is exchanged for an implant during a second operation. In your case I would favour a special custom-made expander.

John Frodel, MD · Answer

Your question is an excellent one.  The scalp does not stretch well so it is an important consideration before undergoing such a procedure which, by definition requires some stretching to allow for placement of a skull implant.  The keys are the size of the implant and scalp laxity (this varies from person to person).  Technical considerations include incision placement  which needs to be away from the implant.

How much can the scalp be stretched to allow for a skull implant? (photo)

Answers (2)