Cleft lip Palate Surgery

Patients with cleft palate often experience speech problems, breathing issues, and psychological trauma because of their appearance. Finding an experienced maxillofacial surgeon who can perform cleft palate and cleft lip surgery can be challenging since only some surgeons have extensive experience performing this specialized procedure. If you or your child has a congenital deformity, talk to Dr. Quereshy about treatment options. Dr. Quereshy can perform cleft palate and cleft lip surgery under general or sedation anesthesia to rebuild the mouth and create a more attractive facial appearance.

How Cleft Palate and Cleft Lip Surgery is Performed

If you only need your cleft lip repaired, Dr. Quereshy will use a special technique to restore the space between the upper lip. This can be performed under general or sedation anesthesia, depending on the extent of separation and the amount of stitches needed.

Cleft palate surgery is more extensive than cleft lip surgery because it involves repositioning some of the tissue to restore the top of the mouth. Cleft palate surgery can be performed on one or both sides of the roof of the mouth, or to restore the full length of the palate. Tissue from the roof to the mouth can be transferred to another area to cover the soft palate.

Psychological Benefits of Cleft Lip and Palate Surgery

For many patients, undergoing cleft lip and palate surgery offers more than just functional benefits. The psychological ramifications of living with a congenital deformity can be severe, especially for younger children and teenagers. Research published in 2005 details the psychosocial effects of cleft lip and cleft palate among children and adults. The study found that some children and adults with this condition had issues related to their self-image, dissatisfaction with their facial appearance, depression, and problems with interpersonal relationships.

While additional studies are needed to draw any conclusions about the psychosocial effects of a congenital defect, patients undergoing cleft lip and palate surgery may experience some positive psychological benefits because of the improvement in their appearance.