Cleft Lip & Cleft Palate

Cleft lip and cleft palate are two conditions that occur in approximately one in every eight hundred births. These conditions are categorized by a separation of the lips (cleft lip) and/or a separation in the roof of the mouth (cleft palate). This abnormality occurs during the fetus' early stages of development. The severity of the deformity varies, however reconstructive surgery helps to correct this birth defect.

Before   After   Actual patient of Dr. Kaveh Alizadeh. Click here for his before and after gallery.

Cleft lip surgery can usually be performed once the child is about ten weeks old. For a cleft palate, the separation may only be in a small section of the roof of the mouth and it is recommended that the child be between nine and eighteen months old due to the extensiveness of the surgery.

Before   After   Actual patient of Dr. Kaveh Alizadeh. Click here for his before and after gallery.

LIPSG doctors developed and direct the Cleft Palate and Cranio-Facial Center at North Shore University Hospital.

Before   After   Actual patient of Dr. Kaveh Alizadeh. Click here for his before and after gallery.

Frequently Asked Questions

At what age should a cleft palate or lip be treated?
Although these issues should be addressed as early as possible, cleft lip surgery is typically done at ten weeks old. Cleft palate surgery is a slightly more extensive surgery, requiring the child to be between nine and 18 months old.

Is a cleft palate or cleft lip connected to other diseases?
13% of children born with cleft lip, cleft palate or both, are born with other birth defects. Children with these abnormalities should be thoroughly examined soon after birth to detect the possibility of other existing genetic defects.

What is the discomfort associated with this procedure?
Discomfort and pain that occurs within the first few post-operative days can be alleviated with pain medication.

What is the recovery period from this procedure?
Pain and soreness will be present for a day or two following surgery which can be alleviated by medication. An intravenous line will help to maintain fluid levels. Your doctor will advise special instructions on proper feeding for the first few weeks.

How many procedures are needed to fix the deformity?
Depending on specific and individual circumstances, multiple surgeries may be necessary. Consulting a surgeon is necessary to determine the course of action that will best suit the needs of your child.

Can they fix the palate and the lip during the same procedure?
Timing and type of surgery depend upon a number of situational factors, including the preference of the surgeon, the health of the baby and the nature of the cleft.