The Subtleties of Craniofacial Surgery | Mr. Gwanmesia Skip to main content

The Subtleties of Craniofacial Surgery

Craniofacial surgery is a subspecialty in the field of plastic surgery that requires specialized training and precise technique. The use of craniofacial surgery to correct congenital malformations is often instrumental in improving the lives of those who have conditions such as abnormal skull shapes, facial clefts, orbital anomalies and more. Craniofacial surgeries have the potential to drastically improve the lives of those with congenital conditions by enhancing their facial aesthetics and providing functional normalcy.

cranial cavity. the bones of the cranium, the bones of the head, skull. the individual bones and their salient features in different colors-img-blog

What Conditions Are Treated With Craniofacial Surgery?

Several conditions are indicated for treatment with craniofacial surgery. Some of the most common applications include:

  • Scaphocephaly: A cephalic condition which occurs when the sagittal suture of the skull is fused prematurely. It is characterized by a long, narrow skull and is also known as sagittal synostosis.
  • Plagiocephaly: A condition characterized by a flattened area at the back of the head. This condition may be associated with the tightening of one of the muscles in the neck, in which case it is referred to as positional plagiocephaly. However, it may also be caused by premature fusion of one or both of the occipital sutures, in which case it is referred to as true plagiocephaly.
  • Fibrous Dysplasia: A bone disorder where fibrous, scar-like tissue grows instead of bone. The abnormal growth can weaken the bone tissue.
  • Craniofacial Trauma: Significant damage to the structures and tissue of the face and head that must be corrected with surgery.
  • Orthognathic Conditions: Involves structural problems with the jaw and face that cause TMJ, malocclusion problems and dental issues.

Choosing Your Surgeon

Since craniofacial surgery involves the structure of the face and skull, it necessitates a depth of knowledge and expertise that is uncommon even among surgeons. Mr Ivo Gwanmesia has the training, both academic and practical, to confidently perform such complex procedures. A graduate of Manchester University Medical School, Mr Gwanmesia is a talented surgeon with expertise in all areas of plastic surgery. Ivo has had the opportunity to train under two leading craniofacial surgeons. First, Mr Gwanmesia worked with David Dunaway, the lead surgeon at the prestigious craniofacial department at Great Ormond Street Hospital in London. Mr Gwanmesia then studied further with Dr. Francis Papay, who led the team that performed the first face transplant in the United States, at the Cleveland Clinic in 2008. Mr Ivo Gwanmesia has also helped to pioneer a new method for reconstructing the middle vault of the nose, called the ‘Fulcrum Spreader Graft.’ With a full breadth of knowledge and experience in regards to all areas of craniofacial surgery, Mr Gwanmesia has been the surgeon of choice for many who have congenital malformations. The success stories that have come from his practice are echoed in the grateful testimonials of his many happy patients.

x-ray image of skull human-img-blog

What To Expect If You Are Considering Craniofacial Surgery

If you have a congenital malformation or damage to the craniofacial area due to trauma, then you could be a candidate for corrective craniofacial surgery. At the consultation appointment, Mr Gwanmesia and his skilled staff will assess your individual needs to provide a thorough plan. Most craniofacial surgeries involve substantial aesthetic enhancements and may require a significant recovery time depending on the severity of the malformation.

Your first step will be to schedule a consultation with Mr Gwanmesia by calling 02074741300 or filling out an online contact form. If you are ready to get the corrective surgery that you need, then entrust your care to one of the best.


Dr Ivo Gwanmesia

Dr Ivo Gwanmesia is one of Harley Street’s most experienced and renowned craniofacial plastic surgeons. With over a decade of professional experience, he has transformed the lives of countless patients from all over the UK & abroad.

Due to his vast and hands-on training in the UK and the US, Dr Ivo now specialises in more than a dozen different aesthetic, craniofacial and transgender procedures. Some of them include face, neck, and brow lifts, upper and lower blepharoplasty, breast reduction & breast uplift as well as facial feminisation surgery, to name a few.

Dr Gwanmesia has also conducted pioneering research, which led to the development of a new technique for the reconstruction of the middle vault of the nose, known as the ‘Fulcrum Spreader Graft’. He was also part of a study comparing the efficacy of the Sheen Spreader Graft and the Fulcrum Spreader Graft. The study has since been published on PubMed and the Journal of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.