Cleft lip and cleft palate are congenital conditions that occur when the tissues of the upper lip or roof of the mouth do not fully fuse during early fetal development. These conditions can affect facial structure, speech development, feeding, and dental alignment. Treatment typically involves specialized surgical care performed over time to restore normal function and improve facial balance.
At McKinnon Plastic Surgery, cleft lip and palate care is provided by Dr. McKay McKinnon, a board-certified plastic surgeon with advanced craniofacial training. Dr. McKinnon completed fellowship training in craniofacial surgery in Paris under Dr. Paul Tessier, whose work helped establish modern craniofacial reconstruction. His experience includes complex pediatric craniofacial procedures and secondary corrective surgeries for patients who previously underwent cleft repair.
Before
After
What Are Cleft Lip And Cleft Palate?
Cleft lip and cleft palate are birth differences that affect the development of the upper lip and roof of the mouth. A cleft lip occurs when the tissues forming the upper lip fail to fully join during pregnancy. A cleft palate occurs when the roof of the mouth does not close completely.
Some children are born with only a cleft lip, while others have both cleft lip and cleft palate. The condition can range from a small separation to a more significant opening affecting the lip, nose, gums, and palate.
Because the lip and palate play important roles in feeding, speech, and facial development, early evaluation and treatment planning are essential.
How Cleft Lip And Palate Are Treated
Treatment for cleft lip and palate typically involves a series of surgical procedures performed at different stages of development. Early procedures focus on closing the cleft and restoring basic function.
Initial surgery is often performed during infancy to repair the lip and palate. As the child grows, additional procedures may be recommended to improve speech, dental alignment, nasal structure, or facial symmetry.
Treatment is often coordinated with other specialists, including speech therapists, orthodontists, and pediatric specialists, depending on the patient’s needs.
Secondary Procedures For Cleft Lip And Palate
Some individuals who were treated for cleft lip or palate earlier in life may later benefit from additional corrective procedures. These secondary surgeries are designed to refine facial structure and address functional concerns that become more apparent with growth.
Secondary procedures may involve:
- Revision of lip scars or contour
- Nasal reconstruction related to cleft deformities
- Correction of residual palate concerns affecting speech
- Adjustment of facial asymmetry related to the original cleft
These procedures are carefully planned to improve both function and facial balance.
When To Seek Evaluation
Evaluation may be appropriate for:
- Infants born with cleft lip or cleft palate
- Children who require ongoing surgical care as they grow
- Adults seeking revision of earlier cleft repair
- Individuals experiencing speech, breathing, or structural concerns related to cleft conditions
Early consultation allows for appropriate treatment planning and coordination of care when needed.
Why Choose McKinnon Plastic Surgery For Cleft Lip & Palate Treatment?
Cleft lip and palate surgery requires specialized training in craniofacial reconstruction and careful understanding of facial growth and development. Dr. McKay McKinnon completed extensive postgraduate surgical training, including service on the Harvard Surgical Service and plastic surgery residency at the University of Miami. He later pursued advanced craniofacial fellowship training with Dr. Paul Tessier in Paris.
Throughout his career, Dr. McKinnon has treated complex craniofacial conditions affecting both children and adults. His experience includes surgical care for congenital facial differences and reconstructive procedures designed to restore both function and appearance. This background allows cleft lip and palate surgery to be approached with careful planning and attention to long-term outcomes.
Cleft Lip & Palate Treatment In Chicago, IL & Coral Gables, FL
Cleft lip and palate conditions require specialized surgical care to restore normal function and facial balance. Patients in Chicago, IL and Coral Gables, FL seeking evaluation or treatment for cleft lip and palate can contact McKinnon Plastic Surgery at (312) 335-9566 in Chicago or (305) 753-1400 in Coral Gables to schedule a consultation.
