(801) 212-9061
7555 Center View Ct Suite 104 West Jordan, UT 84084
Cleft Lip and Palate Repair in West Jordan
Cleft lip and palate affect the upper lip and roof of the mouth and are very common. These conditions can lead to challenges in feeding, speech, hearing, and dental development. Cleft lip and palate repair is a transformative set of surgical procedures designed not just to correct physical appearance but also to improve functional issues associated with these conditions.
If you or your loved one is born with a cleft lip and palate contact our skilled surgeons today at (801) 212-9061.
Cleft Lip and Palate Repair
Understanding the Conditions
- Cleft Lip: A cleft lip is a physical split or gap in the upper lip, which can appear as a small notch or extend from the lip to the nose. It can occur on one side (unilateral) or both sides (bilateral) of the lip. This condition affects not only the lip’s appearance but can also impact the functionality of the mouth, particularly in feeding.
- Cleft Palate: A cleft palate involves a split or opening in the roof of the mouth, affecting either the soft palate (back part of the mouth) or the hard palate (towards the front of the mouth), or both. This condition can lead to issues with feeding, speech development, and an increased risk of ear infections.
Surgical Procedures
- Cleft Lip Repair (Cheiloplasty): Typically performed when the child is about three to six months old. This surgery aims to reconstruct the lip to close the gap, restore muscle function, and provide a more typical lip appearance. The surgical technique is chosen based on the cleft’s severity and the child’s overall health.
- Cleft Palate Repair (Palatoplasty): Usually undertaken when the child is between six and eighteen months old. This surgery involves reconstructing the roof of the mouth to close the separation, which helps in developing normal speech and reducing the risk of fluid build-up in the ears. The complexity of the procedure can vary based on the extent of the cleft.
Comprehensive Treatment Approach
- Multidisciplinary Team: The child’s care involves a team of specialists, including a pediatric dentist for dental and orthodontic needs, a speech-language pathologist for speech development, an otolaryngologist for ear-related concerns, and a psychologist for emotional support and development.
- Staged Treatment Plan: The treatment plan often includes multiple surgeries and interventions. For example, bone grafts might be needed to fill gaps in the gum line, and additional surgeries might be necessary as the child grows to refine the appearance and function of the lip and palate.
Importance of Early Intervention
- Minimizing Developmental Delays: Early surgical intervention is critical to ensure minimal impact on the child’s speech and language development, nutrition, and overall growth.
- Long-Term Follow-Up: Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor the child’s development, address any arising issues promptly, and adjust the treatment plan as necessary.
Common Misconceptions about Cleft Lip and Palate Repair
Misconception: Cleft Repair Is Purely Cosmetic
Fact: While improving appearance is a significant part, the primary goal is to resolve functional challenges related to eating, speaking, and hearing.
Misconception: Cleft Repair Is a One-Time Procedure
Fact: Repair often involves a series of surgeries and interventions over several years to address the child’s evolving needs as they grow.
Misconception: Cleft Conditions Are Always Detected at Birth
Fact: While cleft lip is usually noticeable at birth, a cleft palate may not be as apparent and can be diagnosed later during a physical examination.
Cleft lip and palate repair are life-changing procedures that go beyond physical correction, offering children the chance to lead a full, healthy live.
If your child has been diagnosed with a cleft condition, our experienced team is here to support you through every step of the repair process. Call our office for a Free consultation. (801) 212-9061.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cleft lip and cleft palate are congenital deformities that occur when a baby’s lip or mouth does not form properly during pregnancy. A cleft lip is a physical split or separation of the two sides of the upper lip, appearing as a narrow opening or gap. A cleft palate, on the other hand, is a split or opening in the roof of the mouth. Both conditions can affect a child’s ability to eat, speak, hear, and breathe properly.
Cleft lip and palate repair are surgical procedures that aim to close the gap or opening. Cleft lip repair, usually performed within the first few months of life, involves surgical techniques to create a more typical lip appearance. Cleft palate repair, typically done between 6 and 18 months of age, involves reconstructing the roof of the mouth to ensure proper growth, development, and function.
Yes, cleft lip and palate surgeries are generally safe and are routinely performed with a high success rate. As with any surgery, there are risks involved, but they are minimized by the expertise of the surgical team.
Post-surgery, patients typically experience some swelling, discomfort, and may require pain management. For cleft lip repair, recovery is often quicker, while cleft palate repair might require a longer period for complete healing. Feeding and speech therapy are often part of the post-surgery treatment plan.
Cleft lip and palate surgeries aim to achieve a more typical appearance with minimal scarring. While some signs of the cleft might still be visible, advancements in surgical techniques have made it possible for children to have a more natural appearance post-surgery.
The number of surgeries required can vary depending on the severity of the cleft and the child’s individual needs. In many cases, multiple surgeries over several years are needed to fully correct the cleft and address associated issues.
Yes, cleft lip and palate can affect speech and eating. These children often require speech therapy to help address difficulties and may have special feeding needs early in life. Surgical repair significantly improves these functions.
Cleft lip surgery is usually performed when the child is about 3 to 6 months old. Cleft palate repair is generally performed between the ages of 6 to 18 months. This timing can be adjusted based on the child’s health and specific circumstances.
Follow-up care includes regular medical, dental, and speech evaluations. Some children may need additional surgeries as they grow. Ongoing dental care and orthodontic treatment are often necessary to ensure proper teeth alignment and oral health.
Most health insurance plans cover cleft lip and palate repair as they are considered necessary medical procedures. However, coverage details can vary, so it’s important to check with your insurance provider.
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Free $50 Gift Card*
$50 Gift Card when you complete an appointment with us!
*Redeemable after completed paid treatment. Must be a new patient to our organization and must not have been seen in ANY OF OUR LOCATIONS. The patient will receive a gift card via email or SMS after completion of their appt.
Free Exam & X-ray^
For New Patients without insurance we offer Free Exam and X-rays!
^For New Patients that do not have dental insurance. New patients must be 18 or older to receive free exam and x-rays. Discounts cannot be combined with other offers or dental discount plans. Additional fees may be included in individual cases.
$99 Hygiene Visit^^
For New Patients without insurance we offer Free Exam and X-rays!
^^For new patients without dental insurance. Includes Exam, X-Ray and Routine Cleaning. A Periodontal Cleaning requires additional fees, and rescheduled for further treatment. Cannot be combined with other offers or dental discount plans.
