Normally in the early weeks of child development, the right and left sides of the upper lip and the roof of the mouth grow together and fuse. Occasionally, one or all of these structures fail to fuse resulting in a cleft lip and/or palate; a phenomenon which can be partial or complete. Over many years, surgeons and other healthcare providers have developed multidisciplinary teams to deal with cleft lip and palate in addition to other associated problems that can occur. This team approach is critical in the care of these children as there are nutritional issues, social issues, speech and language development concerns, as well as surgical issues that need to be addressed.
Surgeons at BMC are trained to be involved in all aspects of a child's surgical care, depending on their needs. Those born with a cleft lip and/or palate can find individualized treatment and a team approach with surgeons practicing at BMC who are willing to see your child at any point during the process from birth to any necessary revisions in adulthood.
Providers will spend the necessary time to answer questions throughout the process, educate and support the entire family, and foster an environment where children can grow with a sense of self-respect and self-esteem that goes well beyond the physical defect.