Internal Distraction Device
Beyond Faces' Approach

Internal Distraction Device
In Patient

Beyond Faces’ surgeons developed internal midface distraction technology. The process involves devices that are housed below the soft tissue. They are referred to as submergiblebecause they utilize an external pin for two days following surgery, which is later removed. After the second or third post-operative day there is no external mechanism. The process of internal distraction involves more than a different distraction device. The surgical process to mobilize and advance bone, the duration that adjustments are done, and the limited time the device is visible are all unique to the internal distraction system. In general, we choose to place internal distraction devices instead of external headframes whenever possible. Most children and parents are not aware there is a mechanism below the tissue. The device may remain in place for months or indefinitely, though we often remove the devices if the child is returned to surgery for some other type of operation. We also use internal distraction devices whenever the skull bone has been compromised by prior surgery. Headframes require a stable portion of the skull to obtain anchorage of the device.