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We strive to see patients as early as possible to begin our team-based care and planning, typically within 1–2 weeks after birth or hospital discharge. The first visit is often busy but very productive. You will meet most members of the team and leave with a comprehensive plan for your child’s care.
As part of our comprehensive approach, we may recommend orthodontic devices depending on your child’s specific needs. If these devices are needed, visits are typically required monthly for the first 3–4 months.
We aim to repair cleft lips around 4 months of age; however, timing may vary based on factors such as weight gain and overall health. Our top priority is a healthy child and a successful initial repair.
Cleft palate repair is generally planned between 10–14 months of age, though this may also vary depending on growth, health, and scheduling. Again, our priority is a safe and successful first repair.
Additional procedures may be part of the overall cleft care journey. These can include:
Ear tubes, often placed at the time of cleft lip repair or around 4–6 months
CO₂ laser revision of lip scarring (at the time of palate repair)
Palatal fistula repair (around 1–2 years)
Lip or nose revision (around 5–6 years)
Bone grafting (around 8–10 years)
Midface advancement (around 14–18 years)
Velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI) surgery (as needed, typically 5–18 years)
Nasal revision in later adolescence
Every child is unique. Our multidisciplinary team works together to develop a personalized care plan tailored to your child.
We follow children from birth through late adolescence, involving different team members at each stage of care based on their growth and development.
We look forward to walking this cleft journey with your family and supporting you every step of the way.
