2025 ICD-10-CM code Q67.0
Congenital facial asymmetry. This condition is a birth defect affecting the symmetry of the face.
Medical necessity for interventions related to congenital facial asymmetry is determined by the severity of the condition and its functional and cosmetic impact on the individual. Surgical interventions are typically considered medically necessary when the asymmetry causes significant functional impairment, such as difficulties with breathing, eating, speaking, or vision. In some cases, surgical or non-surgical interventions may also be deemed medically necessary to address the psychological impact of noticeable facial asymmetry.
Diagnosis and management of congenital facial asymmetry typically falls under the purview of specialists like craniofacial surgeons, plastic surgeons, pediatricians, geneticists, and otolaryngologists (ENT specialists).They are responsible for assessing the asymmetry, determining the underlying cause, and recommending the appropriate course of treatment, whether surgical, non-surgical, or observational.
In simple words: Congenital facial asymmetry is a birth defect where a baby's face isn't symmetrical, meaning the two sides don't look the same. This can be caused by differences in the size, shape, or position of the bones, muscles, and other tissues in the face.
A congenital condition characterized by an asymmetry of the face, present from birth.It involves differences in the size, shape, or position of facial structures on the left and right sides.
Example 1: A newborn infant is observed to have a noticeable difference in the size and shape of their eyes and ears, along with a slight slant to the jawline. After a thorough examination, the pediatrician diagnoses the infant with congenital facial asymmetry., A child presents with a misaligned jaw, causing difficulty with chewing and speaking. Following imaging studies and consultations, a craniofacial surgeon determines the child has congenital facial asymmetry and recommends corrective surgery., During a routine prenatal ultrasound, an anomaly is detected in the developing fetus's face. Further investigations confirm the presence of congenital facial asymmetry, prompting the medical team to prepare for potential interventions after birth.
Thorough documentation of congenital facial asymmetry is essential. This should include detailed clinical descriptions of the specific facial features involved and their degree of asymmetry. Imaging studies, such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRI scans, are frequently used to assess the underlying bone structure and identify any associated anomalies. Genetic testing may also be indicated in certain cases.Photographs can be a useful tool to visually document the asymmetry.
** Congenital facial asymmetry can vary significantly in its presentation, ranging from mild and barely noticeable to severe and significantly impacting function and appearance.The etiology of congenital facial asymmetry can be complex and multifactorial, including genetic factors, prenatal environmental exposures, and developmental disturbances during pregnancy.
- Specialties:Pediatrics, Plastic Surgery, Craniofacial Surgery, Genetics, Otolaryngology
- Place of Service:Office, Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital