Cleft Lip and Palate Surgery

Establish a Healthy Diet for Your Child

Correcting a cleft lip or palate can improve your child's ability to eat and receive the proper nutrients.

Positive Long-Term Outcomes

The scars remaining after surgery are usually discreet, suit the natural contours of the face, and fade over time. 

Prevent Developmental Issues

Addressing a cleft lip or palate early and receiving the support of a dentist can usually prevent future speech problems and issues with tooth development.

Most cleft lip procedures are performed when the child is three to six months old. However, your surgeon may recommend waiting if your child has a cleft palate. Although each surgery is performed on a case-by-case basis, here is what you can generally expect:

Your surgeon will place your child under general anesthesia to ease him or her into a deep sleep.

The surgeon will carefully trim excess tissue and suture it back together during the one to two hour surgery. 

Most patients receive dissolvable stitches and are left with a small visible scar, which should fade over time. 

Your child will stay in the hospital for up to a week after surgery and should reach full recovery within 4 weeks. 

If your child has a cleft palate, they may need more than one surgery to fully resolve the defect. 

The number of surgeries needed will depend on how serious the defect was. Your oral and maxillofacial surgeon can work with plastic surgeons and orthodontists to ensure healthy teeth development and highly cosmetic results.