How Much Circumferential Head Reduction Can Be Expected in Skull Reduction Surgery?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I was looking at the head reduction surgeries, in particular occipital reduction. I just have one question left before I want to arrange a consultation 

My question is, in general how much head circumference reduction can you expect. You posted that the average reduction in the back is around 7 milimeters. So does a 7 milimeter reduction in the occipital area result in a 7 milimeter head circumference reduction aswell or is it different? Is it possible to calculate it? I know its a hard question to answer but if you could give me an average estimate of the head circumference reduction that happens after the occipital reduction from previous patients. I sent a picture so you can look at it as well.

Thank you for your time

A:That is a very good question to which there is no exacting answer since the reduction in bone projection does not correlate with reduction in circumferential measurement in a linear manner. I am certain there is a mathematical way to answer this question based on spherical geometry but that is beyond my expertise. Rather than circumferential measurements I focus on what aesthetic effect will be achieved in profile projection which is a lot easier to see. Certainly the red line you have drawn in your photo is beyond what 6 to 7mms of bone reduction would achieve.

Dr. Barry Eppley

World-Renowned Plastic Surgeon