Cleft lip and palate are major birth deformities with worldwide prevalence, associated with definite clinical and psychosocial impact on the society. Cleft lip and cleft palate are openings or split in the upper lip, the roof of the mouth (palate) or both. They result when facial structures that are developing in an unborn baby don’t close completely. This deformity directly or indirectly affects the lip, palate, teeth, jaws, ear, nose and even majority of the face in severe cases.
The human face has its own growth phase like the rest of the body and this is affected by the cleft condition, creating functional and esthetic challenges. The sequelae of the cleft can cause limitation in vital aspects like airway, sucking, feeding, speech, etc which are detrimental to the child’s social well-being. Thus, cleft surgeries are required at certain stages in accordance with the growth of the…
