Cleft can impact just the lip or palate or both, and areas around the lip. It can occur on one side or both sides of the lip and/or palate.
Each cleft is different even though it may look the same (physically and visually) as some other clefts. Parents, therefore, should not get overly worried if the appearance of their child post-treatment is not the same as others or as seen on the internet. Parents are also advised to stay with the same Cleft Team.
4 Types of Cleft
Normal Lip & Palate
The structure of the nose, lip, gums, palate and uvula are fused as expected and complete.
Cleft Palate
The nose and lip are normal. The palate has a cleft from mid-way to the uvula at the back.
Unilateral Cleft Lip & Palate
One sided cleft impacting the nose (collapsed nostril), lip, gums, palate and uvula.
Bilateral Cleft Lip & Palate
As above but more severe, impacting both nostrils.