Cleft Lip and Palate Surgery/Craniofacial Surgery

A child born with a separation in the upper lip is said to have a cleft lip. A similar birth defect in the roof of the mouth, or palate, is called a cleft palate. Surgery is usually recommended to repair either of these conditions.

The Division's physicians and specialists are committed to providing quality, compassionate and comprehensive care to pediatric patients with cleft and craniofacial problems, and ongoing support to their families. Treatment includes cutting-edge surgical and therapeutic techniques combined with the dedication of the medical team to provide its young patients with a bright, happy, healthy future.

Oftentimes, the skills of several medical professionals are needed to correct problems with a cleft lip or palate. Because some children may have problems with one or several of the following problems — feeding, teeth, hearing, speech and psychological development as they grow up — the Division of Reconstructive and Plastic Surgery has assembled a Cleft Team.

The Cleft Team
This multi-disciplinary team includes the following physicians and specialists:

• Plastic surgeons
• Pediatricians
• Ear, nose and throat specialists
• Nurses
• Dentists
• Psychologists
• Speech and language specialists
• Hearing specialists
• Social workers
• Genetic counselors
• For further information, please go the Cleft and Cranial Facial Center