Can Skull Reshaping Surgery Reduce The Bump On The Back Of My Head?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I am interested in skull reshaping of the back of my head. I am 45 years and I have a small spot of protruded ridged edge at the back of my head from birth. I have never been comfortable with it and I wish it could be corrected for a normal round shape back head. I wish to know if/how it could be corrected. If possible, what’s the cost implication and how the duration of the treatment and possible medical implications if any. I have attached some photos for your examination and prompt response, I may send you more pictures if you so request. Thanks.

A: Your head problem could be solved by a minor skull reshaping procedure. Your ‘spot’ or bump of bone on the back of your head is a raised area over your original posterior fontanelle area that you had an an infant. This is a common area of minor skull contour deformities from indentations to raised ridges. Your midline occipital ridge can be reduced by a burring technique through a small incision. This is a one hour procedure done under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure. There are no medical implications by taking a small amount of the outer cranial table. Other than some temporary swelling and small fine line scar from the incision there are no potential complications.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana