What is a cleft lip and palate?
An opening that forms during pregnancy in the upper lip, the roof of the mouth, or both. It is relatively common and treatable, parents are not the cause, and it calls for a care team, patience and a clear plan.
Typical stages of treatment
- First weeks: feeding support with special bottles and an overall assessment.
- Lip repair: usually in the first months, depending on the baby's condition.
- Palate repair: usually in the second half of the first year or shortly after.
- Later: speech, dental and orthodontic follow-up, and sometimes jaw bone grafting and revision of nose or lip shape.
Timing varies from child to child and is set by the surgeon after examination.
For parents
We explain each stage well in advance and coordinate follow-up with the other specialists involved, such as speech therapy and orthodontics, so your child's journey is organised and comfortable.