Cleft Lip and Palate Surgery
At Evas Dental and Maxillofacial & Oral Cancer Center, we offer specialized cleft lip and palate surgeries to help patients achieve improved function and appearance. Led by Dr. S. Gidean Arularasan, a highly skilled Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon and Oral Onco Surgeon, our team is dedicated to delivering comprehensive care that addresses the unique needs of each patient.
Understanding Cleft Lip and Palate
A cleft lip is a split or opening in the upper lip, and a cleft palate is an opening in the roof of the mouth. These conditions occur when the facial structures that form during fetal development don’t close completely. Cleft lip and palate can affect a child’s ability to eat, speak, and hear, and they may also lead to dental and ear infections.
Treatment Explanation
Cleft lip and palate surgeries aim to correct these openings, restoring both function and appearance. The treatment usually involves multiple stages, depending on the severity of the condition and the patient’s age and health.
- Cleft Lip Repair: Typically performed when the baby is around 3 to 6 months old, this surgery involves closing the separation in the lip. The procedure is carefully planned to ensure minimal scarring and to achieve the most natural appearance possible.
- Cleft Palate Repair: This surgery is usually performed when the child is between 9 to 18 months old. It involves closing the opening in the roof of the mouth, which is essential for normal speech development and preventing food from entering the nasal cavity.
- Additional Surgeries: Depending on the severity of the cleft, additional surgeries may be needed as the child grows. These can include bone grafts, nasal reconstruction, or jaw surgery to further improve function and appearance.
Procedure Details
Cleft lip and palate surgeries are performed under general anesthesia to ensure the comfort and safety of the patient. Here’s what you can expect during the procedure:
Pre-Surgical Assessment: Before surgery, a detailed evaluation is conducted to plan the procedure. This includes imaging studies, blood tests, and consultations with specialists like orthodontists and speech therapists.
Surgical Steps
For cleft lip repair, the surgeon carefully aligns the lip tissues and muscles to close the gap, using fine sutures to minimize scarring.
In cleft palate repair, the surgeon reconstructs the roof of the mouth, creating a functional palate that allows for normal speech and eating. The procedure may involve repositioning tissues from the roof of the mouth or nearby areas.
Post-Surgical Care: After surgery, the patient is closely monitored in a recovery area until they are fully awake and stable. Most patients can go home within a day or two, depending on the complexity of the surgery.
Post-Operative Care
Post-operative care is crucial for ensuring a smooth recovery and optimal results. Here’s what you can expect:
- Pain Management: Pain and discomfort are common after surgery. Medications will be prescribed to manage pain and prevent infection.
- Diet: For the first few weeks after surgery, the child may need to be on a soft or liquid diet to avoid putting pressure on the surgical site. Our team will provide detailed dietary guidelines.
- Wound Care: Keeping the surgical site clean and dry is essential for proper healing. You will receive instructions on how to care for the wound, including how to clean it and when to return for follow-up visits.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-up visits are important to monitor healing and address any concerns. These appointments allow the surgical team to assess the success of the procedure and plan any additional treatments if needed.
- Speech Therapy: After cleft palate repair, some children may need speech therapy to help develop normal speech patterns. Our clinic works closely with speech therapists to ensure your child receives the support they need.
Why Choose Evas Dental and Maxillofacial & Oral Cancer Center?
Dr. S. Gidean Arularasan and his team are committed to providing the highest level of care for children and adults with cleft lip and palate. Our state-of-the-art facilities, combined with our compassionate approach, ensure that each patient receives personalized care tailored to their unique needs.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation, please contact us at +91 9751599916. We are here to support you every step of the way
