Cleft Lip and Palate
A cleft lip and palate can be a most devastating occurrence for mother, father, and child, but it does not have to be. Well-established procedures and therapies, ranging from surgical interventions to speech therapy, can restore form and function.
Cleft lip and palate formations occur in one out of 600 births in the United States and approximately occurs during the sixth week in embryonic development. As the various developmental components of the face begin to fuse, a non-union or breakdown occurs along the seams. As a result, the cleft forms according to the degree of non-union.
The defect occurs in a variety of combinations from complete lip/palate, partial lip/complete palate, or complete lip/partial palate. Cleft deformities are more common in males and 60 percent of the time they are located on the left side of the face. Occasionally, however, the clefts may be both on the right and the left sides.
The repair of the lip is usually performed by the age of 3 months. At this age the baby is large enough to undergo the surgery with minimal complications. When the child is five to seven years old, orthodontic needs should be evaluated. Bone grafting of the cleft in the tooth-bearing area is performed between ages nine and eleven, preceded by expansion of the palate to correct any cross-bite, intercepting the eruption of the upper canine tooth into the cleft.
Final orthodontic treatment is completed during mid-adolescence in conjunction with surgery, if necessary, to correct any disproportional facial growth. This surgery may involve moving the midface forward, up, and/or down. This type of facial/jaw surgery is known as orthognathic surgery and is recommended if the face does not grow properly.
The emotional and psychological pressures of having a facial difference can be great. Children's faces are closely connected to their identity and their ability to relate with the world around them. Some must deal with their own resentment and rejections, but most reach a point of resolution and acceptance.
Love and acceptance are very important. Many times, parents may go through a period of guilt or blame. Trying to understand why these experiences happen sometimes defies explanation. The counsel from licensed counselors, spiritual leaders, psychologists, support groups, books and close friends can help the parents cope with this difficult circumstance.
The doctors of Park Meadows Cosmetic Surgery are highly qualified to surgically assist cleft lip and palate patients. With their unique dual degrees in both the dental and medical professions, and with their experience and training in cosmetic surgery, Doctor Robinson has the certification, education, artistry, and compassion to give cleft lip and palate patients the best possible surgical outcome. With our doctors' surgical skill, combined with the help of an orthodontist, a speech therapist, and most importantly, a loving environment, a cleft lip and palate patient can face the future with a new and empowering confidence.
The doctors of Park Meadows Cosmetic Surgery are highly qualified to surgically assist cleft lip and palate patients. Drs Robinson and Williams have the certification, education, artistry and compassion to give cleft lip and palate patients the best possible surgical outcome. Our doctors’ surgical skill combined with the help of an orthodontist, a speech therapist, and most importantly, a loving environment, a cleft lip and palate can face the future with a new empowering confidence. We offer private informative consultations with one of our doctors to help patients and loved ones understand the options. Schedule a consultation by calling one of our patient care coordinators at 303-706-1100, or request an appointment online through our website and we will contact you for scheduling WITH IN 24 HOURS.
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