What is Cleft Lip / Cleft Palate Surgery?
Cleft lip and cleft palate surgery is a reconstructive procedure to correct congenital deformities where the upper lip and/or the roof of the mouth (palate) fail to fuse properly during fetal development. These anomalies can lead to difficulties in feeding, speech, hearing, facial aesthetics, and psychosocial well-being.
The two main procedures involved are:
- Cheiloplasty (Cleft Lip Repair): Typically performed at around 3 months of age, this surgery creates a functional lip seal, improves facial appearance, and enables proper feeding.
- Palatoplasty (Cleft Palate Repair): Performed between 9 to 12 months of age, this surgery closes the opening in the palate to improve speech clarity and separate oral and nasal cavities.
Advanced techniques like the Modified Millard (for lip) and Veau-Wardill-Kilner (for palate) ensure minimal scarring and functional restoration. Additional procedures such as presurgical orthopaedics, lip adhesion, and speech therapy may be required as part of a comprehensive care plan.
Why Choose India for Cleft Lip / Cleft Palate Surgery?
India is a leading destination for cleft lip and palate treatment due to:
- High-volume surgical expertise, with over 30,000 cleft surgeries performed annually
- Use of modern techniques in craniofacial reconstruction by experienced paediatric plastic surgeons
- Multidisciplinary care teams, including speech therapists and orthodontists, offering complete post-operative support
- Access to NGO-supported programs for financial aid and community rehabilitation
- High success rates exceeding 90% for primary repairs
Delhi-based Tier 1 private hospitals offer specialized craniofacial units with dedicated teams for international patients, combining affordability with world-class surgical outcomes.
Cost & Duration Summary
Average Cost in India: USD 1,000 – 2,500
Hospital Stay Required: 1 – 2 days
Post-Treatment Stay in India: 10 – 14 days (for follow-up & recovery)