Q: My son is 1 year and 9 months old. He was born normal, but somehow his chest looks like pushed inside. As a result, it looks like a small pond in the middle of his chest. Is this pigeon chest? So far, there is no problem with him but I would like to know whether this indicates any health problem in future? Do I have to bring him for x-ray to make sure he is OK? I took him to a child specialist and the doctor said that this is normal. Is this a genetic problem?

A:The condition is opposite of pigeon chest and is called Pectus Excavatum. This condition is not known to produce any functional impairment (decrease in lung function, for instance). This deformity is purely cosmetic and is best left alone. If the deformity is increasing with time or if becomes very asymmetrical than before, a consult with an orthopaedic surgeon is warranted.