Cleft lip is a common problem in infants. While it is an unfortunate condition cosmetically, there are other complications that may result from a cleft lip. This article will help to explain what they are, and what you can do about them.
What is a cleft lip?
A cleft lip is a facial malformation that may occur very early in pregnancy, while the baby is still developing inside the mother. This comes when there is not enough tissue in the mouth or lip area, and the tissue that is available does not join together properly. This is a separation or physical split of the two sides of the upper lip and appears as a narrow opening or gap in the skin of the upper lip. It is dangerous, because in some cause this separation can extend beyond the base of the nose, and it includes the bones of the upper jaw or the gums. This can impair breathing, or it can impair proper digestion and mastication of food.
What causes this condition?
Unfortunately, in most cases, the cause of this condition is unknown. They also cannot be prevented while the child is in the womb. It may be even impossible to detect it until the baby is actually born. Most scientist have observed and believe that clefts are due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. There also appears to be a greater chance of contracting this condition if someone else in the family has had it previously.
What can be done to treat this condition?
There are a number of different types of things to be done in order to treat this type of condition. Due to the medical and other health problems that can possible result from this malformation, it is important to get it treated as quickly as possible. Plastic surgeons can perform cleft lip and palate repair in Las Vegas, and other doctors can as well. Having this procedure performed by a plastic surgeon is often the best option, because they are not only trained in surgical procedures, but are also trained to make things look the best cosmetically as they can. It is important to find the best doctor to help with this condition.
Other options may need to include orthodontists to straighten or reposition teeth (because they will not be in their proper places due to the displacement of the lip), and an audiologist or speech therapist to help the child with any speech impediments that result from this.
This is a difficult condition to have happen to your child, but there are steps that can be taken that can improve their quality of life. If your child has this condition, contact a doctor and see if they may be able to help you. You want to ensure that your child can have as normal of a life as possible, and fixing this malady with surgery and other techniques is the best thing you can do for them.
To learn more about this condition, click here.