+91 
Working Time
- Mon-Thu 08:00 – 20:00
Friday 07:00 – 22:00
Saturday 08:00 – 18:00
Contact Info
-
Phone: 75388 91919
73861 91919
Ask the Experts
Understanding Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate
Cleft lip and cleft palate are congenital conditions where a baby’s lip or palate (roof of the mouth) does not fully develop during pregnancy. These conditions can impact feeding, speech, and hearing, but with timely and expert surgical intervention, significant improvements can be achieved.
Types of Cleft Conditions
1. Cleft Lip:
- Appearance: A split or opening in the upper lip ranging from a small notch to a complete separation extending into the nose.
- Types: Unilateral (one side) or bilateral (both sides).
- Symptoms: Affects speech, feeding, and can lead to dental issues.
2. Cleft Palate:
- Appearance: An opening in the roof of the mouth affecting the soft palate, hard palate, or both.
- Symptoms: Difficulties with feeding, speech problems, and increased risk of ear infections.
Causes and Risk Factors
- Genetic Factors: Family history of cleft lip or palate can increase risk.
- Environmental Factors: Certain medications, alcohol, or smoking during pregnancy may contribute.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Lack of essential nutrients during pregnancy could play a role.
Diagnosing Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate
- Prenatal Ultrasound: Can detect cleft lip during pregnancy, though cleft palate is less visible.
- Physical Examination: After birth, a physical exam confirms the presence and extent of the cleft.
- Additional Tests: May include imaging studies to assess the cleft palate and any associated conditions.
Treatment Options for Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate
1. Surgical Treatments:
- Cleft Lip Repair: Typically performed when the baby is between 3 to 6 months old, this surgery involves closing the gap in the lip and repositioning the tissues.
- Cleft Palate Repair: Usually performed between 9 to 18 months old, this surgery aims to close the gap in the palate to improve speech and feeding.
- Additional Surgeries: May be required as the child grows for continued improvements, including nasal or dental surgeries.
2. Non-Surgical Treatments:
- Speech Therapy: Assists with speech development and articulation as the child grows.
- Feeding Support: Special bottles and nipples are used to assist with feeding in infants.
- Orthodontics: May be needed to address dental issues and ensure proper alignment of the teeth.
What to Expect During and After Surgery
During Surgery:
- Pre-Operative Preparation: Includes a thorough consultation to discuss the surgical plan and potential outcomes.
- Anesthesia: General anesthesia is used to ensure the child is comfortable during the procedure.
- Procedure: The surgeon closes the cleft and repositions the lip or palate as needed.
Post-Operative Care:
- Recovery: Includes managing pain, preventing infection, and following specific feeding guidelines.
- Follow-Up: Regular follow-up visits are crucial to monitor healing and address any complications.
- Long-Term Care: May involve ongoing speech therapy and additional surgeries as needed.
FAQs About Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate Surgery
Cleft lip repair is typically performed when the baby is between 3 to 6 months old, while cleft palate repair is usually done between 9 to 18 months. Timing may vary based on the child’s overall health and development.
Risks include infection, bleeding, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. However, these risks are minimized with careful planning and skilled surgical techniques.
Recovery time varies but typically involves a few weeks for initial healing. Complete recovery and final results can take several months. Regular follow-ups will be scheduled to monitor progress.
Additional surgeries may be needed as the child grows to address ongoing issues such as speech problems or nasal deformities. Each case is unique, and the need for further surgery will be assessed by the surgical team.
Repair surgery aims to improve both speech and appearance significantly. Early and comprehensive treatment often leads to excellent outcomes, though some children may require speech therapy or additional procedures.
Follow-up care includes regular check-ups to monitor healing, manage any complications, and assess the need for additional treatments. Speech therapy and orthodontic evaluations may also be part of long-term care
Preparation involves understanding the procedure, discussing it with your child in an age-appropriate manner, and following pre-operative instructions from your surgical team. Emotional support and reassurance are crucial.
Long-term effects may include improved speech and appearance, but some individuals might need additional surgeries or therapies as they grow. Regular follow-ups with the surgical team help manage and monitor these effects.
Yes, cleft lip and palate surgeries can be performed on adults, although the approach may differ compared to pediatric cases. Adult patients may require additional evaluations and a different surgical plan.
Achieving the best aesthetic results involves meticulous surgical techniques, a customized treatment plan, and post-operative care. The surgical team at Akruti Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery Centre focuses on both functional and cosmetic outcomes.
Why Choose Akruti Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery Centre for Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate Surgery?
At Akruti Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery Centre, we offer expert care for cleft lip and cleft palate conditions with a focus on personalized treatment plans and compassionate support. Our experienced team utilizes advanced techniques to ensure the best outcomes for your child’s health and well-being.
Contact Us for Your Consultation
For more information or to schedule a consultation, please contact us:
● Call Us: 75388191919
● Email Us: info@akruti.co.in
Visit Us:
● Branch 1: Akruti Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery Centre, 6th Phase, KPHB Colony, JNTU Road,
Kukatpally, Near Nexus Mall, Hyderabad – 500085
● Branch 2: Akruti Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery Centre, 2nd Floor, SSS Square Building, Opposite
Sarath City Mall, Whitefields, Kondapur, Telangana – 500084