Cleft palate

Our specialists examine the patient, share information and together, design a comprehensive treatment plan. This not only assures the quality of care but also provides coordinated, ongoing treatment and reevaluation, as appropriate.

Comprehensive treatment plans are created in collaboration with clinic providers, following a day-long, multidisciplinary evaluation at our clinic. Following the evaluation, you and all professionals associated with your child’s care receive a detailed report outlining findings and recommendations.

The care plan and report include coordinated, ongoing treatment and reevaluation as appropriate. We offer a wide array of surgical treatment options depending on your child’s unique care. Patients opting for treatment at the center are followed throughout the reconstructive process. Your child's surgeon and our team develop a long-term plan that is achieved gradually and carefully, through surgeries that are coordinated with all aspects of a patient's treatment throughout the years.

Treatment for cleft lips and cleft palates has improved greatly in recent years, as has the treatment approach. Most children now can achieve a more average appearance with regular speech and eating abilities.

Ear tube insertion

Ear tubes may be necessary if a child's hearing is impaired. The muscles that control pressure in the ears are connected to the palate, so children with cleft palates often need ear tubes that can be placed to help control that pressure since the muscles can't respond as they would normally. Placing these ear tubes helps maximize hearing abilities, so it will not impact the child later in life.

Postsurgical care

Your child’s medical and psychosocial progress is carefully followed by our expert teams throughout the treatment process. This continuity assures strong patient-physician relationships, optimal surgical results and it helps you navigate medical care for your child.

Your child’s surgeon and center team will develop a long-term plan that is achieved based on your child’s goals and milestones. Any needed surgeries will be coordinated with your child’s treatment and progress through the years.