Cleft treatment

As a parent of a child with cleft, you probably have a lot of questions. On this page, we clearly explain to you what cleft is and how we are committed to treating cleft.

Prof. Dr. Nasser Nadjmi performing an operation

In most babies, a series of treatments and surgeries can restore normal function and appearance with minimal impact.

Prof. Dr. Nasser Nadjmi

What is cleft?

Cleft lip and cleft palate are openings or splits in the upper lip, the roof of the mouth (palate), or both. This is the result of facial structures developing in an unborn baby that don't close completely.

Usually, a cleft in the lip or palate is diagnosed through ultrasound examinations after 20 weeks of pregnancy. However this condition is immediately identifiable at birth.

When your baby is born with a cleft lip, palate, or both, you're probably devastated as a parent. But with the right care, they can be corrected. In most babies, a series of treatments and surgeries can restore normal function and appearance with minimal impact.

What are the symptoms?

  • A split in the lip, floor of the nose opening and roof of the mouth (palate) that can affect one or both sides of the face
  • A split in the lip that can appear as only a small notch in the lip or can extend from the lip through the upper gum and palate into the bottom of the nose
  • A split in the roof of the mouth (palate) without affecting the lip or the nose.
  • Loss of food through nose opening while swallowing (this condition can be very upsetting for the child).
  • Nasal speaking voice
  • Recurring ear infections

What causes cleft

The actual cause of cleft lip and palate is still unknown. They most commonly occur as birth defects but are also associated with many inherited genetic conditions or syndromes.

Researchers believe that most cases of cleft lip and cleft palate are caused by an interaction of genetic and environmental factors. In many babies, a definite cause isn't discovered.

Our fundamental beliefs

Our goal is always to achieve the maximum result with minimal impact on the child.

As little surgery as possible

Step by step correction

Wait for the help of nature

Help us to provide a carefree life for cleft children

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