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.
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.
Additional surgeries may be needed later for speech improvement, dental corrections, or jaw alignment.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
A multidisciplinary team including surgeons, pediatricians, speech therapists, audiologists, orthodontists, and psychologists works together to support the child’s physical, emotional, and developmental needs.
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.
📞 Call us or book an Appointment Online to schedule a consultation.