What is Cleft Lip?
 
A cleft lip is a separation and probable deficiency of tissue of the upper lip. It is the result of the failure of the tissues to fuse during the first trimester of pregnancy.

It can occur on one side only (unilateral) or on both sides (bilateral). It may involve only a notch in the lip or extend into the nose and through the gum line (alveolar ridge).

Associated findings:

• Breast feeding may be possible for an isolated cleft of the lip. (intact palate)
• Associated nasal deformity
• The cleft lip is usually not associated with other birth defects.

Initial lip and nasal reconstruction usually occurs at approximately 10 weeks of age. The alveolar cleft is repaired with a bone graft later  (at approximately 6-10 years old) depending on growth and dental development in conjunction with orthodontic management.

What is Cleft Palate?

A cleft palate is an opening in the roof of the mouth. It results from the failure of the palatal shelves to fuse during the 10-12th week of pregnancy. 

It can occur with or without a cleft lip. A submucous cleft (a separation of palatal muscles with intact mucosa) may not be detected on physical examination.

Associated findings:

• Feeding difficulties with nasal regurgitation
• Eustachian tube dysfunction with possible effusions, ear infection, andconductive hearing loss
• Speech disorder

The palate is usually repaired at 9 to 12 months age. There may be a need for additional reconstruction as the child grows.