Can oral surgery fix a cleft lip or palate?
Written by Charan
Last updated
Yes, oral surgery can be used to correct a cleft lip and palate, which are birth defects that occur when the lip and/or the roof of the mouth (palate) do not form properly during fetal development.
Treatment for cleft lip and palate usually involves a multidisciplinary approach, with a team of specialists working together to provide comprehensive care. Oral surgeons play a key role in the surgical treatment of cleft lip and palate.
The specific surgical procedures required for cleft lip and palate repair vary depending on the severity of the condition. Typically, multiple surgeries are performed over several years to achieve optimal results and address functional and aesthetic concerns.
Cleft lip repair is usually performed within the first few months of life, while cleft palate repair is typically done between 9 and 18 months of age. The surgeries aim to close the gaps in the lip and palate, improve feeding ability, speech development, and facial appearance.
It's important for infants born with cleft lip and palate to receive early intervention and follow a comprehensive treatment plan outlined by the cleft team, which may include oral surgeons, plastic surgeons, orthodontists, speech therapists, and other specialists.