What to know
How it is performed
Lip repair brings the tissues and underlying muscle into a planned position. Palate repair closes the gap and reconstructs the relevant muscle layers. Further procedures, dental treatment or speech-related care may be recommended as part of a staged programme.
Who may consider a consultation?
Families of a child with a cleft, or people with a concern after previous repair, can seek assessment. Timing is determined by development, health and the multidisciplinary plan.
Recovery & follow-up
Feeding and mouth-care instructions depend on the operation. Follow-up checks healing and function, with ongoing speech, hearing and dental assessment where needed. Further care may be required during growth.
Risks & considerations
Discuss wound-healing problems, fistula, speech or dental concerns, scarring and the possibility of further treatment. A single operation does not resolve every aspect of cleft care.
Questions to bring to your consultation
Ask which specialists should be involved, how speech, dental and feeding concerns are assessed, and whether further stages are expected.