Dr. Hitesh Sachwani
A cleft lip is a common congenital condition that causes a separation in the upper lip. It occurs when the tissue doesn’t join properly during development in the womb, leading to difficulties in eating, speaking, and overall facial appearance. Surgical intervention is essential for treatment and ensuring proper function and aesthetics.
Cleft lip surgery typically involves closing the gap in the lip and reconstructing the surrounding muscles to restore both appearance and function. The procedure is usually performed when the child is between 3 and 6 months old, though treatment plans may vary depending on the severity.
After the surgery, the area must be carefully monitored to ensure proper healing. This involves regular follow-ups and special care of the surgical site.
In the immediate post-operative period, feeding techniques may need to be modified. Special attention is given to ensure proper nutrition for healthy recovery.
Following successful cleft lip surgery, most patients experience improved facial appearance, better speech, and ease in feeding. While additional surgeries may be required for more complex cases, early treatment offers the best outcomes.
Cleft lip occurs when the facial tissues don’t join properly during fetal development. Both genetic and environmental factors can play a role.
Yes, while surgery is ideally done during infancy, cleft lip repair can still be performed later in life for individuals who were not treated in early childhood.