They will also provide you with detailed instructions for your child's recovery period. Usually, only one surgery is required to correct the cleft. However, in some cases, additional surgeries may be needed. When a surgical repair for a cleft is completed, your child's well-being is important. It is important to protect the repaired tissue, promote healing and provide good nutrition.
Medication is available to relieve pain and maximize comfort.
If you have any questions, please ask the nursing staff or your physician before you child is discharged from the hospital. A bilateral cleft involving both sides may require a second surgery, which is done several months later. Corrective lip surgery is performed under general anesthesia and takes around two to three hours. Typically, your baby will only remain in the hospital overnight. The surgeon and the nursing team will instruct you on how to care for your child's lip at home after surgery.