What is the surgical repair of a cleft palate or lip?

Cleft lip and cleft palate are openings or splits in the upper lip and roof of the mouth, respectively. Both can be visible at birth.

Cleft lip repair is a surgery that closes the opening in the lip. It is usually performed when the baby is between 3 and 6 months old.

Cleft palate repair is a surgery that closes the opening in the roof of the mouth. It is usually performed when the baby is between 9 and 12 months old.

Both surgeries can be performed using different techniques, depending on the severity of the cleft. However, the goal of both surgeries is to close the openings and restore the function and appearance of the face.

In most cases, cleft lip and cleft palate surgeries are successful. However, there may be complications, such as infection, scarring, or problems with speech or eating.