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Expert Cleft Lip and Palate Surgery at BCOH Boston
At the Boston Center for Oral Health, we understand that cleft lip and cleft palate are more than cosmetic concerns—they can significantly impact speech, nutrition, breathing, and emotional well-being. Our team of board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons specializes in treating these conditions using a collaborative, compassionate, and highly personalized approach.
Cleft lip and palate occur when the tissues of the upper lip and/or roof of the mouth do not fully fuse during pregnancy. Our advanced surgical techniques aim to restore facial harmony, improve function, and support healthy development in infants, children, and adults.
From initial diagnosis to post-operative care, we work closely with pediatricians, orthodontists, and speech therapists to ensure a seamless treatment journey. Our state-of-the-art facility in Boston is equipped to handle complex cleft repairs, offering both primary and revision surgeries with minimal discomfort and optimal results.
Whether your child has been diagnosed with a cleft condition or you’re seeking a second opinion, BCOH provides expert care in a supportive environment tailored to your family’s needs.
BCOH Cleft Lip & Palate Repair
Cleft lip and cleft palate are birth defects that affect about one in every 700 newborns. These developmental deformities occur in the first trimester of a woman’s pregnancy; cleft lip in week seven and cleft palate in week nine. Cleft lip and cleft palate occur simultaneously in about half of all cases.
A cleft lip is essentially a separation of the two sides of the lip. In many cases, this separation will include the bone and gum of the upper jaw. A cleft palate occurs when the sides of the palate fail to “fuse” as the fetus is developing, which results in an opening in the roof of the mouth.
Cleft deformities are categorized according to their location in the mouth and the size of the defect.
- Unilateral incomplete: A cleft on only one side of the mouth that does not extend as far as the nostril
- Unilateral complete: A cleft on only one side of the mouth that extends into the corresponding nostril
- Bilateral complete: A larger cleft that affects both sides of the mouth and extends as far as the nostril
- Microform cleft: A mild case of cleft lip that may simply form a bump on the lip or a small scar line extending toward the nostril
What are the reasons for getting cleft lip and cleft palate repair?
Cleft lip and cleft palate are highly treatable deformities, though it may take a whole team of different specialists to fully treat the condition. The prognosis for patients who receive corrective treatment is excellent — medically, physically, and emotionally. However, there are a series of risks for those who do not receive corrective treatment:
- Speech: Children born with either cleft deformity are likely to experience speech problems unless treatment is sought. Speech problems are detrimental to a child’s social and emotional development.
- Feeding: Babies with a cleft palate or a complete cleft lip have difficulty drinking milk. The gap means that liquids can pass from the mouth to the nasal cavity. This can be dangerous unless the child is fed sitting upright.
- Hearing loss & frequent ear infections: A cleft palate can cause the eustachian tubes (connecting the throat to the ear) to be incorrectly positioned. The fluid build up which results from this poor positioning can lead to painful middle ear infections. Severe and prolonged ear infections can lead to complete hearing loss.
- Dental issues: Abnormalities in the upper jaw, gum or arch can cause teeth to become impacted (unable to erupt) or absent completely. The shape of the mouth might not permit proper brushing which can lead to periodontal disease and tooth decay.
What does getting cleft lip and cleft palate surgery involve?
Initially, surgeons will work to close the cleft openings in the first six months of the child’s life. Unfortunately, this does not cure the dental problems that occur as a result of cleft lip and cleft palate defects. One of our Boston dentists will perform a thorough examination of the teeth surrounding the deformity. Panoramic X-rays will generally be taken to allow the dentist to determine the best course of treatment.
The dentist may implant teeth to fill resulting gaps and/or place braces on the teeth in order to correctly align the upper arch. These treatments will restore functionality to the jaw and improve the aesthetic appearance of the smile. Dental restorations can generally be performed under local anesthesia and will not require an overnight stay.
Take the First Step Toward Healing and Confidence
Cleft lip and palate surgery can be life-changing—not only in terms of appearance but also for essential functions like speech and eating. At BCOH, you’re not alone. Our specialists are here to guide you every step of the way. Schedule a consultation today and discover the difference expert care can make.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cleft Lip and Palate Surgery
Q: What causes cleft lip and cleft palate?
A: These conditions result from incomplete fusion of facial tissues during fetal development. Genetics and environmental factors may contribute.
Q: At what age should cleft lip or palate be repaired?
A: Cleft lip repair typically occurs between 3–6 months of age. Cleft palate repair is usually performed between 9–18 months, depending on the child’s needs and overall health.
Q: Will surgery leave a scar?
A: Yes, but our surgeons use advanced techniques to minimize scarring and improve aesthetic outcomes.
Q: Are multiple surgeries required?
A: In some cases, especially with cleft palate, additional procedures may be needed for speech improvement, dental development, or cosmetic refinement.
Q: Does my child need ongoing care after surgery?
A: Yes. Children often benefit from a team-based approach involving speech therapy, orthodontics, and periodic follow-ups to monitor growth and development.