Cleft Lip and Palate Treatment: Restoring Smiles and Function
A cleft lip and palate is a congenital condition that occurs when a baby’s lip or the roof of the mouth (palate) does not fully develop during pregnancy. This results in a gap or opening in the lip and/or palate, which may lead to difficulties with feeding, speech, hearing, and appearance. With early diagnosis and treatment, children born with a cleft lip and palate can lead healthy, fulfilling lives.
What Is Cleft Lip and Palate?
- Cleft Lip:
- A gap or opening in the upper lip that may extend into the nose. It can be unilateral (one side) or bilateral (both sides).
- Cleft Palate:
- A gap or opening in the roof of the mouth, which may affect the hard palate, soft palate, or both.
Why Cleft Lip and Palate Treatment Is Important
- Improves Appearance:
- Surgical repair of the cleft lip and palate helps improve facial symmetry and enhances a child’s overall appearance.
- Improves Function:
- Treatment can address functional issues such as difficulty in speaking, hearing, and feeding, allowing for better daily functioning.
- Boosts Self-Esteem:
- Addressing cosmetic concerns and functional limitations can improve the child’s confidence and social interactions.
- Prevents Complications:
- Timely intervention can prevent potential problems like speech delays, ear infections, and dental issues.
Treatment Options for Cleft Lip and Palate
- Cleft Lip Repair Surgery:
- Typically performed at around 3-6 months of age to close the gap in the upper lip and reshape it for a more normal appearance.
- Cleft Palate Repair Surgery:
- Usually done when the child is 9-18 months old to close the gap in the roof of the mouth and restore the function of the palate.
- Additional Surgeries:
- Some children may require additional procedures to further refine the appearance of the lip or palate as they grow.
- Speech Therapy:
- Speech therapy is often necessary after surgery to improve articulation and language development.
- Dental and Orthodontic Care:
- Ongoing dental care and orthodontic treatment are essential to address any dental or bite issues that may arise.
- Hearing Evaluation and Treatment:
- Regular hearing tests are important to detect any hearing loss that might result from fluid in the ears or other issues.
Our Doctors
Dr. Somendra Singh Jadon
Dr. Vishal P. Panwer
Dr. Santosh Dubey
Frequently Asked Questions
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