Hemi-facial microsomia is a progressive, asymmetrical craniofacial malformation, associated with cardiac, renal and vertebral anomalies. After cleft lip and palate it is the next most common congenital deformity in the head and neck region. Other causes of mandibular hypoplasia include Treacher-Collins and Pierre Robin syndromes.

Vascular anomalies are common in all age groups from infants to adults. Not infrequently lesions present in the head and neck region. These range from simple skin discolorations to large devastating malformations. The complications that may arise are not insignificant and include haemorrhage, infection and tissue destruction, congestive heart failure all in addition to facial disfigurement.