For children with sunken or protruding chests, the impact of chest wall deformities reaches far beyond their physical appearance. These conditions can deeply affect their confidence, making them hesitant to participate in everyday activities like swimming, sports or even wearing certain clothes.
Thanks to the innovative surgical techniques at Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital, many young patients are discovering newfound confidence and freedom. John B. Lopoo, Jr., MD, a pediatric general surgeon at the hospital, explains how this life-changing procedure goes beyond fixing a physical issue. It’s about restoring a child’s self-esteem and helping them reclaim their lives.
“Parents often tell us they just want their child to be able to wear a T-shirt comfortably or feel good taking their shirt off at the pool,” Dr. Lopoo shares. “It’s about giving them the confidence to be themselves.”
What Are Chest Wall Deformities?
Chest wall deformities, like pectus excavatum (sunken chest) and pectus carinatum (protruding chest), are more than just cosmetic concerns. In severe cases, these conditions can impact breathing, exercise tolerance, and even heart function.
“Pectus excavatum is 10 times more common than pectus carinatum, and it can actually compress the heart, making it harder to circulate blood efficiently,” Dr. Lopoo explains. “That’s why we address it when it’s significant.”
Pectus excavatum affects one out of every 300 to 400 children and three times as many boys as girls. Although the condition is present at birth, people often notice it during their teen years.
Surgical Innovations and Techniques
Thanks to advancements in surgical techniques, chest wall deformities can now be treated with procedures that offer effective results and faster recovery times. Dr. Lopoo and his team are trained in the Nuss procedure, a method pioneered by Dr. Donald Nuss. The procedure involves placing a curved metal bar under the sternum to reshape the chest.
“It’s like braces for your chest,” Dr. Lopoo says. “Over time, the rib cage reshapes, and we now use a double-bar system for better stabilization and elevation.”
The bar stays in for three years and is removed in a separate surgical procedure.
The Emotional Impact of Chest Wall Correction
The transformation of chest wall correction is not just physical; it’s deeply emotional as well. For many children, the ability to stand taller and feel comfortable in their own skin is life changing.
“We see a significant emotional shift after surgery,” Dr. Lopoo says. “Children who were once shy and self-conscious are now more confident, presenting themselves with their heads held high.”
Parents, too, are often overwhelmed with gratitude. “I’ve had moms cry in the clinic, just so thankful for the transformation,” Dr. Lopoo notes. “A 14-year-old boy might rate his confidence at a 1 before surgery, but afterward, it’s an 8 or 9.”
A Path to Confidence and Freedom
The journey to a more typical chest shape is ultimately about more than just physical changes. It’s also about giving children the freedom to live life without holding back.
At Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital, Dr. Lopoo and his team’s expertise and the hospital’s commitment to innovative procedures ensure that young patients receive the best, most advanced care possible.
A relationship with your pediatrician can help you navigate the journey to chest wall correction and determine the best course of action for your child. Connect with an exceptional pediatrician near you:
- Find a pediatric provider in Baton Rouge.
- Find a pediatric provider in Acadiana.
- Find a pediatric provider in Greater Jackson.
- Find a pediatric provider in Northeast Louisiana.
- Find a pediatric provider in Bogalusa.
