Surgical repair of cleft lip and cleft palate

Patients with cleft lip and palate present the pediatric facial plastic surgeon with numerous challenges. This congenital anatomic anomaly carries with it associated cosmetic deformity, speech disorders, dental abnormalities, and deficient maxillofacial growth. This article describes proven techniques in cleft lip and palate surgical repair. The repair of unilateral cleft lip, bilateral cleft lip, and cleft palate are demonstrated. The accurate performance of these reconstructive surgical maneuvers is an important achievement in the overall care for children affected by cleft lip and palate.