Cleft Lip & Palate Surgery

A cleft lip and palate are congenital conditions in which there is an opening or gap in the upper lip and/or the roof of the mouth (palate). These conditions occur during early fetal development when the tissue that forms the lip and palate fails to come together properly. Cleft lip and palate are among the most common birth defects affecting the face and mouth.

Here's some more information about cleft lip and palate:

Cleft Lip:

• A cleft lip is a separation or gap in the upper lip that can vary in size and severity. It can occur on one or both sides of the lip.
• The gap can range from a small notch to a large separation that extends up into the nose. It can affect the appearance of the nose as well.
• Cleft lip is usually detected through prenatal ultrasounds or diagnosed shortly after birth.

Cleft Palate:

• A cleft palate is a gap or opening in the roof of the mouth. It can involve the soft palate (the back portion) and/or the hard palate (the front portion).
• It can vary in size and severity, ranging from a small opening at the back of the mouth to a large gap that extends through the entire palate.
• Cleft palate can affect feeding, speech development, and can lead to ear infections and other health issues.

Treatment:

• Both cleft lip and palate require surgical intervention for correction. The goal of treatment is to improve appearance, function (such as feeding and speech), and overall quality of life.
• Surgical repair is typically done in stages, often starting within the first few months of life. The exact timing of surgery depends on the child’s overall health and the extent of the cleft.
• A team of medical professionals is usually involved in the treatment, including plastic surgeons, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, pediatricians, speech therapists, and orthodontists.
• Additional surgeries may be needed as the child grows to address aesthetic and functional concerns.

It is important to consult an Oral Maxillofacial Surgeon for evaluation and
treatment.