What is Cleft Lip and Palate?
As a baby's face develops in the womb, a space remains between the nose and mouth. As the face nears its final form in the eighth and twelfth weeks of the pregnancy, this space is closed by the joining of the left and right halves of the upper lip and palate (the roof of the mouth). When this space does not fully close, a baby may be born with a cleft lip and/or a cleft palate. (“Cleft” means a “split” or “separation.”)
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Figure 1a: cleft lip |
Figure 1b: cleft palate |
A cleft lip is a split in the upper lip and base of the nose. (See Figure 1a) A cleft palate is a split in the roof of the mouth and back of the nose. (See Figure 1b) A cleft is not necessarily a medical emergency. It causes no pain for your child and is usually not dangerous. About one of every 700 babies has a cleft lip or palate. (This incidence varies with race.)
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Figure 2a: unilateral incomplete cleft lip |
Figure 2b: bilateral complete cleft lip |
Figure 2c: bilateral incomplete cleft lip |
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Figure 2d: bilateral complete cleft lip and palate |
Figure 2e: incomplete cleft palate |
Figure 2f: horseshoe palate |
A cleft lip or palate may be on one side of a baby's face (unilateral) or on both sides (bilateral). (See Figures 2a - 2f) Both types can be repaired. However, treatment for a cleft lip and/ or cleft palate is a gradual process. There are many steps that may need to be taken during the next few years or more.
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