Cleft lip and palate are facial malformations that may occur separately or together. They may also occur in association with other syndromes or birth defects. The separation of the lip can vary from a small notch to a complete separation extending into the nose. As well as being disfiguring, these abnormalities can cause feeding difficulties and problems with speech development.
Risk factors are a family history of cleft lip or palate and presence of another birth defect.
The incidence of cleft palate alone is 1 out of 2,500 people. There is no proven way to prevent this defect. Physical examination of the mouth, nose and palate confirms the presence of cleft lip or cleft palate. Diagnostic testing may be performed to determine or rule out the presence of other abnormalities. Treatment of cleft lip and palate involves several specialities including plastic surgeons, orthodontics, speech therapists and others.