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Home > Cleft Lip And Palate Repair

Overview

Published with the Inputs from  Dr Shanavas K P,  Cranio Maxillofacial Surgeon, Baby Memorial Hospitals - Kannur

Cleft lip and palate are common birth defects where the lip and/or roof of the mouth do not form properly during pregnancy. Cleft repair surgery restores the normal structure and function of the lip and palate, helping children with feeding, speech, hearing, and appearance. With modern surgical techniques, most children go on to lead healthy, normal lives.

What is cleft lip and palate repair surgery?

Cleft repair is a surgical procedure to close the split in the lip and/or palate. The surgery restores appearance, function, and growth of the face, while also preventing complications related to feeding, speech, and hearing.

When should cleft lip and palate surgery be performed?
  • Cleft lip repair: Usually done between 3–6 months of age.
  • Cleft palate repair: Typically performed between 9–18 months of age, before speech develops.

Additional surgeries may be needed later for speech improvement, dental corrections, or jaw alignment.

How is cleft lip and palate repair performed?

The surgeon makes precise incisions and repositions tissues and muscles of the lip and/or palate to create a natural shape and function. Stitches are placed carefully to minimize scarring. In palate repair, muscle reconstruction helps improve speech and swallowing.

Is cleft repair safe?

Yes. Cleft surgery is considered safe and has a high success rate when performed by an experienced pediatric plastic surgeon. Risks, as with any surgery, may include bleeding, infection, or scarring, but serious complications are rare.

What is recovery like after cleft surgery?

Most children stay in the hospital for 1–3 days after surgery. Soft diets and careful feeding methods are required for a few weeks. Parents are taught how to care for the stitches and incision site. Healing is usually smooth, and children return to normal activities within weeks.

Will my child need more than one surgery?

Yes, sometimes. While the initial lip or palate repair is often done in infancy, follow-up surgeries may be required for speech improvement, dental alignment, or cosmetic refinements during childhood or adolescence.

How does cleft repair affect speech and feeding?

After repair, most children show significant improvement in feeding and speech development. Some may need additional support, such as speech therapy or dental care, as they grow.

What support is needed after cleft lip and palate surgery?

A multidisciplinary team  including surgeons, pediatricians, speech therapists, audiologists, orthodontists, and psychologists  works together to support the child’s physical, emotional, and developmental needs.

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If your child has a cleft lip or palate, our Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Team at Baby Memorial Hospitals provides expert care with advanced surgical techniques and long-term support for speech and development.

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