Cleft lip and cleft palate are among the most common congenital defects affecting children. These conditions occur due to the incomplete formation of the upper lip (cleft lip) or the roof of the mouth (cleft palate). It occurs when a baby’s lip or mouth does not fully develop during pregnancy. A cleft lip is characterized by an opening or gap in the upper lip, which can range from a small notch to a large split that extends up into the nose. This gap occurs when the tissue that forms the lip fails to come together completely during fetal development. A cleft palate, on the other hand, involves an opening in the roof of the mouth (palate) that can extend into the nasal cavity. This condition occurs when the tissue that forms the roof of the mouth does not fuse properly during pregnancy.

Cleft lip and cleft palate can affect a child’s ability to eat, speak, and breathe, and they may also lead to ear infections and hearing issues. Surgical interventions are typically performed in stages, starting with repairing the cleft lip in infancy and then addressing the cleft palate as the child grows. Early intervention and comprehensive care can significantly improve the child’s functional and aesthetic outcomes, helping them to lead a healthy, fulfilling life.