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Cleft Lip Vs. Cleft Palate

Cleft lip and cleft palate are common birth defects in which the upper lip or roof of the mouth is split open. These conditions are caused by a defective gene and environmental factors such as fetal exposure to viruses, drugs, alcohol and cigarettes.

  1. Cleft Lip

    • Cleft lip occurs when there is a split in the lip or palate, which can go from the lip to the upper gum and palate.

    Cleft Palate

    • Cleft palate affects soft palate muscles at the back of the mouth. This is not as visible and may not be diagnosed immediately.

    Lip Treatment

    • Cleft lip is treated with surgery to repair the problem. Surgery should be performed during the first three months of life.

    Palate Treatment

    • Cleft palate is treated with surgery, which should be performed before a child's first birthday. Ear tubes may be used during surgery to ventilate the middle ear, which may prevent loss of hearing.

    Other Treatment

    • Cleft lip and palate patients may need additional surgery between age 2 and their teen years to improve their facial appearance and speech. Patients also may need speech therapy.

    Complications

    • Complications for both conditions include difficulty eating and inadequate tooth and speech development. Children with cleft palate may have ear infections and hearing loss.

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