It’s estimated that 1 in 700 children are born with a cleft lip, palate, or both. Both the cleft lip and cleft palate are congenital conditions. For children who do not have the condition corrected, it is more likely that they develop problems with self-image and appearance. Studies also show that social anxieties can also develop as the child enters adolescence.
When there is a small indentation or gap in the upper lip that does not interfere with the hard palate, the condition is called a cleft lift. This is usually caused by a malformation of the primary process. A cleft palate is formed when the roof of the mouth is not completely joined, which is caused by a malformation of the secondary palate. Consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Richard A. Bartlett to determine the exact condition and the best course of action.
Contact us at our office in Boston if you have more questions about cleft lip and cleft palate.