Cleft Lip and Palate Surgery

One in seven hundred babies are born with a cleft lip and/or cleft palate, which is an incomplete closure of the upper lip and/or roof of the mouth. A cleft condition causes a gap to occur in the affected area, often involving the skin, muscle, bone, and lining of the mouth. A cleft lip and/or palate can be unilateral, involving only one side of the mouth, or bilateral, involving both sides. A cleft lip often occurs in conjunction with a cleft palate; however, this is not always the case.

Cleft Lip and Palate Surgery

Cleft lip and palate surgery is a vital intervention aimed at correcting congenital malformations that affect the upper lip and/or roof of the mouth.

Typically performed in infancy or early childhood, the surgery involves meticulous techniques to close the gap and reshape the affected tissues, restoring both function and aesthetics.

While the primary focus is on physical correction to facilitate feeding, speech development, and facial symmetry, comprehensive care often involves a multidisciplinary approach addressing speech therapy, dental health, and psychological support.

Although the surgeries can significantly improve quality of life, long-term follow-up is crucial to monitor development and address any ongoing challenges, highlighting the importance of collaborative care and ongoing support for individuals born with cleft lip and palate.