craniofacial reconstruction

Craniofacial reconstruction is a highly specialized area of plastic surgery that addresses complex deformities and injuries involving the bones and soft tissues of the skull and face. Dr. Reza Jarrahy is a world-renowned craniofacial surgeon with decades of experience restoring function and appearance for children and adults affected by congenital anomalies, trauma, or tumor-related defects.

As a Clinical Professor of Plastic Surgery, Neurosurgery, and Pediatrics at UCLA, Dr. Jarrahy leads with surgical excellence and a deep commitment to personalized, multidisciplinary care. He has trained under pioneers of craniofacial surgery and continues to advance the field through innovation, teaching, and global humanitarian work.

Common conditions treated include:

  • Cleft lip and palate

  • Craniosynostosis

  • Facial trauma (fractures, soft tissue injuries)

  • Craniofacial microsomia

  • Tumor resection defects

  • Skull and jaw deformities

  • Congenital syndromes (e.g., Treacher Collins, Apert, Crouzon)

Surgical Process and Recovery

Recovery depends on the complexity of the procedure and the age of the patient. Most patients require a short hospital stay followed by close outpatient follow-up. Pain and swelling are common but managed with medication and supportive care.

Rehabilitation may include physical therapy, speech therapy, orthodontics, or additional procedures over time. Dr. Jarrahy and his team are committed to long-term care and support through every phase of recovery.

  • “Dr. Jarrahy is the most exceptional teacher, mentor and physician I have had in my career.His dedication to his students and patients is unparalleled. He deserves every accolade known to mankind. I cannot endorse him enough. I owe him so much of my career. He enabled me to match into plastic surgery at Stanford and has guided my career like a guardian angel.”

  • “Thank you so much for the excellent care.

    With much gratitude”

  • “Dr. Jarrahy, there are very few people I would consider both personal & professional mentors/role models. I greatly appreciate your guidance in the technical arts of surgery, but maybe even more so, admire your genuine passion for connecting deeply & authentically with others.The value you place on relationships/human connection was clearly evident and I aspire to bring this element to my future endeavors, regardless of the setting. I admire your life priorities & balance, which I think very few in medicine, let alone surgery, do well.”

  • “Dr. Jarrahy is the best!! As a medical student Dr. Jarrahy was my mentor and he cares so much about education and the well-being of his students. Amazing teacher and great person to be around.”

  • “Excellent teacher, takes time to teach residents, allows autonomy to improve surgical education while providing adequate supervision.”