When is the best time to perform cleft lip and palate surgery?
Disease description:
The child has cleft lip and palate, and I really hope to have timely surgical treatment to avoid affecting the child's development. When is the best time for cleft lip and palate surgery?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Guo Huijie
The appropriate age for cleft lip and palate surgery is generally 3 to 6 months after birth, and the infant should weigh at least 5–6 kg. Early surgery can restore normal function and appearance of the upper lip as soon as possible, minimizing scar tissue formation. Early surgical intervention is also recommended for cleft palate; if palatal repair can be completed before speech development, it facilitates the child's natural acquisition of speech and helps establish correct pronunciation habits.
