The development of the person in the womb ends in the third month of pregnancy. Cleft lip and cleft palate occurs when facial development in utero is interrupted for any reason, and the genetic causes are not yet fully understood. This problem that causes deformity of the lips, nose, teeth and jaw structure, and makes speech difficult to understand. Cleft lip and palate can be treated by experienced plastic reconstructive surgeons without the need for prolonged treatment and with almost no scarring. The surgical procedures required for each cleft lip and palate patient vary depending on the type and severity of the deformity.
Surgery to restore cleft lip
Surgery to recover from a "cleft lip" is usually done when the baby is about 3 months old. It is done under general anesthesia and the cleft lip will be repaired and closed with stitches. The operation usually takes 1 to 2 hours. Most babies stay in the hospital 1 to 2 days. The stitches will be removed in a few days or may dissolve on their own. There will be a slight scar, but the surgeon will try to line it up with the natural lines of the lip to make it less noticeable. It should fade over time.
Cleft palate repair surgery
Cleft palate repair surgery is usually done when your baby is 6 to 12 months old. The gap in the palate is closed and the muscles and lining of the palate are rearranged. The wound is closed with dissolvable stitches. The operation usually takes about 2 hours and is performed under general anesthesia. Most children are in hospital for 1 to 3 days.
Additional operation
In some cases, additional surgery may be needed at a later stage to:
- repair the cleft in the gum using a bone graft - usually done at around 8 to 12 years of age
- improving the appearance and function of the lips and palate - this may be necessary if the initial surgery has not healed well or there are ongoing speech problems
- improving the shape of the nose (rhinoplasty)
- improve the appearance of the jaw - some children born with a cleft lip or palate may have a small or "dropped back" lower jaw.
