Cranioplasty

Cranioplasty is a reconstructive surgical procedure used to repair defects or deformities of the skull, typically after trauma, surgery, infection, or congenital anomalies. As a Clinical Professor of Plastic Surgery, Neurosurgery, and Pediatrics at UCLA, Dr. Jarrahy collaborates with neurosurgeons, neurologists, and other specialists to ensure safe, effective, and personalized cranioplasty care. His goal is to restore both the protective function and aesthetic contour of the skull while supporting the patient’s overall recovery and quality of life.

Cranioplasty can address

  • Skull defects following trauma or surgery

  • Congenital skull abnormalities

  • Sinking skin flap syndrome (SSFS)

  • Protection of the brain after craniectomy

  • Cosmetic deformities of the scalp or forehead

Surgical Process and Recovery

Patients typically stay in the hospital for a few days after surgery to monitor neurological function and manage pain. Recovery varies depending on the extent of the defect and the materials used, but most patients resume light activities within 2–4 weeks. Swelling and discomfort are common but temporary.

Follow-up visits are essential to ensure healing, assess cosmetic results, and monitor for complications such as infection, fluid accumulation, or implant issues. Dr. Jarrahy provides detailed recovery instructions and long-term support to promote optimal outcomes.

  • “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.”