The most obvious symptom of a cleft lip is the physical appearance of the lip.
Only one side of the lip (unilateral cleft), or both sides (bilateral cleft), may be affected. The appearance of the cleft can range from a small notch in the lip, to a wide gap that runs all the way into the nostril.
If you have a newborn baby with a cleft lip, you may be distressed and worried that your child will be disfigured for life. However, it is important to remember that due to advances in cosmetic surgery, it is now possible to repair even the largest of clefts, leaving only minimal scarring.
As well as affecting appearance, a cleft lip and palate can also cause a number of other associated symptoms. These are outlined below.
Feeding problems
A baby with a cleft lip and/or palate may have problems sucking, or swallowing, milk.
Ear infections and hearing impairments
Children with cleft palates are particularly vulnerable to middle ear infections which, over time, can cause damage to their hearing.
Speech and language problems
The lips and palate play an important part in helping in the formation of sounds. Therefore, if a child has a cleft lip and palate, their speech development may be affected.
Dental health
As a cleft lip and palate cause changes to the structure of the mouth, it can lead to problems with the development of teeth, making children more vulnerable to tooth decay.
Psychological issues
A cleft lip and palate can have a psychological impact on a child and their parents. Psychological support and counselling may sometimes be required.
