BAPRAS welcomes sympathetic and realistic portrayal of serious craniofacial condition in new film Wonder

28 November 2017

The British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS) today welcomes the anticipated release of new movie Wonder. The film gives a sympathetic and uplifting portrayal of ten-year old boy ‘Auggie’ Pullman, who suffers from Treacher Collins Syndrome (mandibulofacial dysostosis). 

BAPRAS welcomes the film’s celebration of difference and tackling of prejudice and bullying towards those with craniofacial conditions through its #ChooseKind campaign. The film includes realistic references to the high number of reconstructive surgical procedures children with this condition may have to undergo. Treatment may begin at birth and continue until a child is 20 years old. 

Treacher Collins Syndrome is a rare congenital condition which affects the bones and tissues of the face. The signs and symptoms of the condition vary greatly. Most affected children have underdeveloped facial bones, particularly the cheek bones, and a very small jaw and chin (micrognathia). Some are also born with an opening in the roof of the mouth (cleft palate). In the most severe cases, the underdevelopment of the facial bones may restrict an infant’s airway and cause potentially life-threatening respiratory problems. It is estimated to impact one in every 50,000 births.  

A multidisciplinary approach to treatment is recommended, and can involve craniofacial, ENT, and neurosurgeons, audiologists, dentists, orthodontists, geneticists and speech and language therapists.  

The film stars Julia Roberts (Ocean’s Eleven, Notting Hill), Owen Wilson (Marley & Me) and Jacob Tremblay (Room) and is based on New York Times bestseller of the same name by R.J. Palacio. 
ENDS 

Notes to editor
• The British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS) is a democratic, membership-based organisation for plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgeons working in the UK. BAPRAS represents plastic surgeons on behalf of the Royal Colleges and is a proud member of the CSIC. Please visithttp://www.bapras.org.uk/ and @BAPRASvoice on Twitter
• For more information, please contact the BAPRAS press office on 07738 803764 or at BAPRAS@portland-communications.com. 
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