A three-year-old boy from southern China, once nicknamed “Mickey Mouse” due to large balloon-like growths on his head, has made a remarkable recovery after undergoing surgery for a rare skin condition.
The child, known only as Qibao, was born in Fujian province with congenital naevus—a condition caused by an overgrowth of pigment-producing cells, resulting in large, dark moles on his scalp. While typically harmless, these moles can pose health risks and deeply affect a child’s appearance and self-esteem.
Doctors in Shanghai advised Qibao’s parents that the moles could be removed surgically. However, the skin on his head first needed to be expanded using balloon-like devices to ensure enough healthy tissue remained for reconstruction. The sight of Qibao with these skin expanders drew cruel comments, but his family stayed strong. “We wiped away our tears and moved on,” his mother, Ms. Chen, said.
After five months of treatment, Qibao’s surgery was a success. Surgeons removed the moles, and post-op videos show the smiling boy playing in the hospital, his head now bandaged but free from the burdensome growths.
His transformation has touched thousands online, with many praising his bravery and his mother’s unwavering support. Congenital naevus affects about 1% of newborns, though few cases are as severe as Qibao’s. His story is now seen as a powerful symbol of medical advancement, resilience, and parental love.
