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| Cleft Lip |
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In the early stages of a fetus's development, the right and left sides of the upper lip normally grow together. However, in about 1 of every 800 babies, a child is born with a separation in the upper lip, otherwise known as a cleft lip. The severity of a cleft lip can range from a slight notch in the upper lip to a complete separation of the lip extending to the nose. A doctor will most likely recommend plastic surgery to repair such separations shortly after birth in order to alleviate any possible problems with feeding, hearing, speech and psychological development. A plastic surgeon may work alone on repairing the child's cleft lip or may choose to work in conjunction with other medical professionals such as a dentist, social worker, or hearing specialist.
Surgery is usually done when the child is about ten weeks old. To repair a cleft lip, a surgeon will make an incision on either side of the cleft from the mouth into the nostril. He or she will then turn the outer portion of the cleft down and pull the muscle and the skin of the lip together to close the separation. Your child may be uncomfortable for a while after the surgery, but the surgeon can prescribe medication to relieve any pain. If your child has stitches, they will either dissolve or be removed within five days. The scars incurred from surgery will gradually fade, but they will never totally disappear. It is important to discuss the procedure with your plastic surgeon as well as any possible risks involved. Most health insurance policies will cover most or all of the cost of the cleft lip surgery, but be sure to check your specific policy. For more information on cleft lip surgery, contact a health care professional or a plastic surgeon.
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