Cleft and Craniofacial Surgeon Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of specialized medicine, the focus on cleft and craniofacial surgeons has never been more significant.

As medical advancements surge forward, the demand for skilled surgeons who can perform, innovate, and ensure the highest quality in craniofacial procedures increases.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a cleft and craniofacial surgeon?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the inner workings of cleft and craniofacial surgery,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable cleft and craniofacial surgeon job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Cleft and Craniofacial Surgeon Duties and Responsibilities

Cleft and Craniofacial Surgeons are medical specialists who diagnose and treat conditions related to the face and skull, particularly abnormalities such as cleft lip and palate, craniosynostosis, and other craniofacial disorders.

This role involves a combination of surgical practice, patient consultations, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

The duties and responsibilities of a Cleft and Craniofacial Surgeon include:

• Diagnosing and treating a range of craniofacial disorders including cleft lip and palate, craniosynostosis, and other facial deformities
• Conducting thorough patient assessments, including physical examinations and medical history reviews
• Developing and implementing surgical plans tailored to the specific needs of each patient
• Performing reconstructive surgeries and other surgical procedures to correct craniofacial abnormalities
• Collaborating with other healthcare professionals such as orthodontists, speech therapists, and geneticists to provide comprehensive patient care
• Providing post-operative care, including monitoring patients’ recovery and responding to any complications
• Communicating effectively with patients and their families, explaining complex medical information in an understandable way
• Staying updated on the latest research and advancements in craniofacial surgery
• Training and supervising medical students, residents, and other healthcare professionals
• Documenting all patient information accurately and securely

 

Cleft and Craniofacial Surgeon Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated, skilled Cleft and Craniofacial Surgeon to join our dynamic team.

In this role, you will diagnose, treat, and manage patients with cleft and craniofacial conditions, performing surgeries to correct facial deformities and improve patient quality of life.

Our ideal candidate is a compassionate, knowledgeable professional with extensive experience in craniofacial surgery, cleft lip and palate repair, and other relevant procedures.

 

Responsibilities

• Diagnose and treat patients with cleft and craniofacial anomalies
• Perform surgeries to correct cleft lips and palates, craniofacial deformities, and other related conditions
• Collaborate with a multi-disciplinary team of specialists to provide comprehensive patient care
• Conduct follow-up assessments and provide post-operative care
• Educate patients and their families about treatment plans and post-surgical care
• Keep up-to-date with the latest surgical techniques and advancements in the field
• Participate in research activities and contribute to scientific literature
• Adhere to all hospital protocols and policies, including those regarding patient privacy and confidentiality

 

Qualifications

• Board certification in Plastic Surgery or Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Subspecialty fellowship training in Cleft and Craniofacial Surgery
• Proven experience as a Cleft and Craniofacial Surgeon
• Proficiency in various surgical techniques, including microsurgery and flap surgery
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Strong interpersonal and counseling abilities
• Commitment to continuous learning and professional development

 

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement plan
• Professional development opportunities
• Malpractice insurance
• Paid time off

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Cleft and Craniofacial Surgeon
• Work Environment: Hospital or clinical setting. Emergency on-call duties may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head of the Department.
• Salary: Salary is commensurate with experience, skills, and qualifications.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter, and any relevant certifications or licenses to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Cleft and Craniofacial Surgeon Do?

A Cleft and Craniofacial Surgeon is a specialized medical professional who focuses on the treatment of congenital and acquired deformities of the skull, face, and jaws.

They diagnose and treat individuals born with cleft lip and palate, craniosynostosis, and other craniofacial abnormalities.

They also treat acquired deformities such as those caused by trauma and disease.

Their responsibilities often involve conducting physical exams, imaging studies, and genetic testing to diagnose craniofacial conditions.

They then create a comprehensive treatment plan that may include surgical procedures, therapies, and coordinating with other medical specialists for holistic patient care.

These surgeons perform complex surgical procedures to correct craniofacial deformities, such as reconstructive surgery, bone grafting, distraction osteogenesis, and more.

They use cutting-edge surgical techniques and technologies to achieve the best possible functional and aesthetic results.

Post-surgery, they monitor the patient’s recovery, manage any complications, and perform additional surgeries if necessary.

They often work as part of a multidisciplinary team that includes orthodontists, speech pathologists, geneticists, and other specialists to ensure comprehensive care.

Education and counseling of patients and their families is also an important part of their job.

They explain the condition, treatment options, potential risks, and outcomes to help them make informed decisions about their healthcare.

 

Cleft and Craniofacial Surgeon Qualifications and Skills

Cleft and Craniofacial Surgeons specialize in the treatment and surgery of abnormalities in the skull, jaw, face, and neck.

These professionals possess a unique set of skills and qualifications, including:

• Comprehensive understanding of oral and maxillofacial surgery, craniofacial surgery, and related surgical procedures to treat a range of craniofacial anomalies such as cleft lip and palate, craniosynostosis and facial deformities.
• Medical expertise to make accurate diagnoses and develop effective treatment plans for patients with craniofacial disorders.
• Technical proficiency to perform complex surgical procedures, using specialized surgical tools and equipment.
• Physical stamina and hand-eye coordination to perform lengthy and intricate surgeries.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team, including dentists, orthodontists, speech pathologists, geneticists and other medical professionals.
• Excellent communication skills to explain complex medical information to patients and their families, and to coordinate with other healthcare professionals.
• Compassion and empathy to provide emotional support to patients and their families, who may be dealing with severe health issues and emotional stress.
• Strong problem-solving skills to address unexpected situations or complications that may arise during surgery or treatment.

 

Cleft and Craniofacial Surgeon Experience Requirements

To become a Cleft and Craniofacial Surgeon, individuals typically need to acquire extensive educational and experiential qualifications.

This journey often begins with an undergraduate degree in a science-related field, followed by a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from an accredited medical school.

Throughout their medical school tenure, aspiring Cleft and Craniofacial Surgeons will gain hands-on experience in the form of clinical rotations, where they will gain exposure to various medical disciplines, including surgery.

Following medical school, individuals must then complete a residency program in general surgery, which typically lasts five years.

During their residency, surgeons will obtain extensive practical experience in surgical procedures and patient care.

To specialize in cleft and craniofacial surgery, surgeons will then need to complete a fellowship program in this specific field.

These fellowship programs, which typically last one to two years, provide in-depth training and experience in managing and treating cleft and craniofacial conditions.

Upon completing their fellowship, surgeons may be eligible to become board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery or the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.

Board certification signifies that a surgeon has met the highest standards of skills, knowledge, and experience in their field.

Cleft and Craniofacial Surgeons with more than 5 years of experience are often considered for leadership roles within hospitals, clinics, or academic institutions.

These roles may include serving as the head of a department or overseeing a team of surgeons and medical professionals.

Continued professional development and staying abreast of the latest research and surgical techniques in the field of cleft and craniofacial surgery is crucial to maintaining and advancing in this career.

 

Cleft and Craniofacial Surgeon Education and Training Requirements

Cleft and Craniofacial Surgeons must start their educational path with a bachelor’s degree.

Although the field for the undergraduate degree can vary, it usually involves pre-medical studies or a science-related discipline.

The next step involves completion of medical school, which usually takes four years.

This is followed by a residency in general surgery or otolaryngology (ear, nose, and throat specialty) which can range between 5 to 7 years.

After residency, surgeons who wish to specialize in cleft and craniofacial surgery must complete a craniofacial fellowship.

This provides specialized training in the diagnosis and surgical treatment of patients with congenital or acquired deformities of the skull, face, and associated structures.

The duration of this fellowship is typically 1-2 years.

All doctors, including cleft and craniofacial surgeons, must be licensed to practice medicine in their state.

This usually involves passing a national examination.

Board certification, which is optional, demonstrates a surgeon’s expertise in a particular specialty and/or subspecialty of medical practice.

Cleft and craniofacial surgeons typically earn this certification from the American Board of Plastic Surgery or the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.

Apart from educational requirements, cleft and craniofacial surgeons need to possess excellent manual dexterity, good visual acuity, and a capacity for spatial understanding.

They should also be compassionate and have good communication skills as they often work with children and their families, who may be dealing with complex and emotionally challenging conditions.

 

Cleft and Craniofacial Surgeon Salary Expectations

A Cleft and Craniofacial Surgeon earns an average salary of $409,665 (USD) per year.

However, this salary can vary based on factors such as years of experience, specialized training, location, and the type of healthcare facility.

 

Cleft and Craniofacial Surgeon Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does a Cleft and Craniofacial Surgeon need?

A Cleft and Craniofacial Surgeon requires a Doctor of Medicine degree, followed by a residency in a related field such as general surgery, plastic surgery, or otolaryngology.

After the residency, they must complete a fellowship in craniofacial and cleft surgery.

They must also obtain a board certification from the American Board of Plastic Surgery or a similar authority.

 

What are the daily duties of a Cleft and Craniofacial Surgeon?

A Cleft and Craniofacial Surgeon’s duties vary but may include evaluating patients, diagnosing conditions, performing surgical procedures, and providing post-operative care.

They may also spend time consulting with other medical professionals, conducting research, and educating medical students or residents.

 

What skills does a Cleft and Craniofacial Surgeon need?

A Cleft and Craniofacial Surgeon needs a high level of technical skill for performing complex surgical procedures.

They should also have excellent visual-spatial ability, manual dexterity, and hand-eye coordination.

Good communication skills are essential for explaining procedures and outcomes to patients and their families.

They also need problem-solving skills and the ability to work well under pressure.

 

What qualities make a good Cleft and Craniofacial Surgeon?

A good Cleft and Craniofacial Surgeon is compassionate, understanding, and sensitive to the needs of their patients, many of whom may be children or adolescents dealing with complex facial anomalies.

They should be detail-oriented to ensure precision during surgeries and have the ability to work well in a team of healthcare professionals.

Dedication to continuous learning and staying updated on the latest surgical techniques and research is also crucial.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Cleft and Craniofacial Surgeon?

Hiring a Cleft and Craniofacial Surgeon can be challenging due to the specialized nature of this role.

The training period is extensive, and the pool of qualified candidates is relatively small.

Employers often need to offer competitive salaries and benefits, opportunities for professional growth, and a supportive work environment to attract and retain these surgeons.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve given you an inside look into the fulfilling world of being a cleft and craniofacial surgeon.

And guess what?

It’s not just about performing surgeries.

It’s about transforming lives, one procedure at a time.

With our handy cleft and craniofacial surgeon job description template and real-world examples, you’re fully equipped to make your next career move.

But why stop there?

Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your go-to resource for crafting precise job listings or refining your resume to the pinnacle of perfection.

Remember:

Every procedure is a part of a larger life-changing journey.

Let’s shape a better future. Together.

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