Author - Dr Pawan Deep Singh

M.B.B.S, DCH, DNB Pediatrics,

Consultant - Paediatrics & Neonatology.

Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate: Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment

Cleft lip and cleft palate refer to openings or splits in the upper lip, roof of the mouth (palate), or both. These usually occur when the facial features that are developing in an unborn baby do not close completely. According to  Dr Pawan Deep Singh M.B.B.S, DCH, DNB Pediatrics, Consultant - Paediatrics & Neonatology.  cleft lip and cleft palate are common birth defects. The best paediatrician & neonatologist in Chandigarh tells us that this birth defect is related to genetic conditions or syndromes.

What are Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate?

A cleft lip and cleft palate are openings in a baby’s upper lip or roof of the mouth (palate). These are congenital abnormalities that develop when a foetus develops in the uterus. The condition occurs when the tissues of the upper lip and roof of the mouth are unable to join during foetal development.

What is a Cleft Lip?

According to the best doctor for newborn surgery in sector 44, our lips develop between four to seven weeks of pregnancy. Tissues from each side of our head join at the centre of the face to create lips and mouth. A cleft lip occurs when the tissues do not join completely.

What is Cleft Palate?

The roof of the mouth is developed between 6 to 9 weeks of pregnancy. A cleft palate is an opening in the roof of your mouth during foetal development.

How Does Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate Affect Your Baby?

Babies born with cleft lip and cleft palate may have difficulties eating, trouble speaking, and may have fluid behind their eardrums. Hence, the babies require immediate treatment from the best doctor for newborn surgery in sector 44.

What are the Causes of Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate?

Cleft lip and cleft palate are caused by:

1. Vitamin deficiency especially a lack of folic acid.
2. Obesity.
3. Smoking or tobacco during pregnancy.
4. Birth disorders.
5. Substance abuse.

How are Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate Diagnosed?

Cleft lip and cleft palate are diagnosed during prenatal ultrasound. It is, however, difficult to detect it before birth. Usually, doctors may detect your cleft lip in your 20-week ultrasound. In some cases, the doctor may recommend amniocentesis to check for other genetic conditions. It may also help diagnose other congenital disorders.

How are Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate Treated?

The best doctor for newborn surgery in sector 44 treats cleft lip and cleft palate depending on the extent of the cleft, the child’s age, and other health conditions. Generally, it is treated with surgery.

A cleft lip repair may require one or two surgeries. The first surgery usually occurs when the baby is 3 to 6 months old. The second surgery (if required) is usually done when the child is 6 months old.

On the other hand, a cleft palate repair is done when the child is 12 months old. In some cases, the child may also require additional surgeries to help improve their speech.

A cleft lip and cleft palate can cause health complications in your child. To prevent this from happening, consult  Dr Pawan Deep Singh at the Motherhood Hospitals.