At the London Craniofacial Unit, we provide specialist assessment and multi-disciplinary treatment for children with tumours and tumour-like conditions affecting the head, face and skull. These conditions can be complex, particularly when they involve the developing bones, the brain, eyes, airway or other important structures.
Our multidisciplinary team brings together craniofacial surgeons, paediatric specialists, neurosurgeons, radiologists, oncologists and other experts to develop a multidisciplinary yet individualized treatment plan for each child and we utilise state of the art imaging, intra operative MRIs, robot assisted treatment, neuro-navigation systems and 3D modelling techniques to deal with the more routine to the most complex of these tumours types. We have one of largest global experiences of managing complex cases.
Tumours in children can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). They may arise from bone, soft tissue, nerves or other structures of the head and face. Some are present from birth, while others develop during childhood.
Examples include:
A child’s age, symptoms, tumour type, location and relationship to surrounding structures all influence the recommended approach.
A careful assessment is the first step. Depending on the condition, this may include:
We aim to explain the diagnosis and treatment options clearly to children and their families, giving you the opportunity to ask questions and understand the proposed plan.
Treatment depends on the nature and location of the tumour. Options may include observation and regular imaging, medication, minimally invasive procedures, surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or a combination of treatments.
Where surgery is required, our team considers both the medical needs of the child and the potential impact on facial growth, appearance, function and development.
For children with complex tumours, treatment may be coordinated with specialist paediatric oncology and other hospital teams to ensure that care is planned as a whole.
Children with craniofacial tumours often benefit from expertise across several specialties. Our multidisciplinary approach allows specialists to review imaging, pathology and clinical findings together before recommending treatment.
This collaborative approach is particularly important when a tumour is close to structures such as the:
A tumour diagnosis can be overwhelming for a child and their family. We aim to provide clear information, compassionate communication and coordinated care throughout assessment and treatment.
We recognise that children have different needs at different ages. Our team works with families to explain investigations and treatment in an age-appropriate way and to support children throughout their care.
Seek specialist medical advice if your child develops headaches, problems with their gait and balance, a new or growing lump, facial or skull asymmetry, persistent swelling, unexplained changes around the eye, or other symptoms that concern you.
Not every lump or swelling is a tumour, but new or changing symptoms should be assessed by an appropriate healthcare professional.
If your child has been diagnosed with, or is being investigated for, a brain or craniofacial tumour, our specialist team can work with the referring clinician to review the available clinical information and imaging.
Please contact the London Craniofacial Unit for information about referrals, appointments and the appropriate pathway for your child.
Every child is different. Our aim is to provide expert, carefully coordinated care while considering not only the immediate condition, but also your child’s long-term health, development, function and quality of life.
The information on this page is for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for medical advice or an individual assessment.
Behind every successful outcome is a dedicated team. Meet the clinical team whose expertise and compassion make LCU world-renowned.
Bringing decades of experience in complex Craniofacial and reconstructive surgery.
Professor Owase Jeelani is a Consultant Paediatric Neurosurgeon and has worked at Great Ormand Street Hospital for Children (GOSH) part...
Mr Lloyd is the Senior Consultant Craniofacial, Oral and Maxillofacial surgeon at the Eastman Dental Hospital and was appointed at...
Mr Zubair Tahir is an experienced Consultant Paediatric Neurosurgeon, who is passionate about delivering the highest quality care to all...
Mr Kristian Aquilina is the surgical lead for the neuro-oncology department at Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children since 2012....
Mr Dulanka Silva is a Consultant Paediatric Neurosurgeon at Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children. In addition to General Paediatric...
Graeme Glass PhD, FRCS(Plast) MBA is a London trained, internationally respected consultant plastic, craniofacial and aesthetic surgeon.
Dr Justin Shute is a Consultant Liaison Psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience working within Orthognathic and Craniofacial teams....
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