Comprehensive Surgical Care for Cleft Lip & Palate
Cleft lip and cleft palate are among the most common congenital conditions, affecting both function and appearance. At Channel Islands Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, we specialize in cleft lip and palate repair surgery, helping children and adults achieve improved speech, function, and facial aesthetics. Led by Dr. Jesse Lanzon and Dr. Reynaldo Rivera, our team provides advanced surgical care in Camarillo, CA, with a focus on precision, safety, and compassionate treatment.
What Is Cleft Lip & Palate?
Cleft lip and cleft palate are birth defects that occur when the tissues of the mouth and face do not fully form during early pregnancy.
Cleft Lip:
- A split or opening in the upper lip, which can range from a small notch to a complete separation extending to the nose.
Cleft Palate:
- A gap in the roof of the mouth (palate) that may affect the hard and soft palate, causing difficulty in feeding, speaking, and breathing.
Surgical repair is essential to restore normal function and enhance the child’s ability to eat, speak, and develop properly.
Why Is Cleft Lip & Palate Surgery Important?
Without treatment, cleft conditions can lead to:
- Difficulty with feeding and nutrition
- Speech and language delays
- Hearing problems and frequent ear infections
- Dental and orthodontic complications
- Social and emotional challenges
Our experienced surgical team is committed to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care to ensure the best possible functional and aesthetic outcomes.
Cleft Lip & Palate Repair Surgery: What to Expect
Step 1: Consultation & Treatment Planning
A thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plan are created to determine the best timing and approach for surgery. Cleft lip repair is often performed around 3-6 months of age, while cleft palate repair is typically done between 9-18 months.
Step 2: Surgical Procedure
During surgery, the goal is to close the cleft, restore normal anatomy, and improve both function and appearance. This may involve:
- Cleft lip repair to bring the separated lip tissues together and reconstruct the natural shape of the upper lip and nose.
- Cleft palate repair to close the gap in the roof of the mouth, improving speech development and preventing future complications.
Step 3: Recovery & Follow-Up Care
Most children stay in the hospital for one to two days after surgery. Full healing occurs over a few weeks, with regular follow-ups to monitor speech, dental, and facial growth. Additional procedures, such as bone grafting or orthodontic treatment, may be recommended as the child grows.
Why Choose Channel Islands Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery?
- Double Board-Certified Expertise – Dr. Reynaldo Rivera holds a Certification of Added Qualification in Pediatric Craniofacial Surgery, bringing specialized expertise in cleft repair.
- Collaborative Care Approach – We work with pediatricians, speech therapists, and orthodontists to provide complete, multidisciplinary treatment.
- Compassionate, Family-Centered Care – We guide families through every step of the process, ensuring a supportive and reassuring experience.
- Advanced Techniques for Optimal Results – Using the latest surgical methods, we focus on minimizing scars, improving function, and achieving natural-looking results.
Schedule a Consultation for Cleft Lip & Palate Surgery
If your child has been diagnosed with a cleft lip or cleft palate, early intervention is key. Contact Channel Islands Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery for expert care and comprehensive treatment options.
Address: 67 S Glenn Dr, Camarillo, CA
Phone: (820) 777-3793
Frequently Asked Questions About Cleft Lip & Palate Repair
At what age should cleft lip and palate surgery be performed?
Cleft lip repair is usually performed at 3-6 months of age, while cleft palate repair is done between 9-18 months to support proper speech and feeding development.
Will my child need additional surgeries?
Some children may require secondary procedures, such as bone grafting, speech correction surgery, or nasal reconstruction, as they grow.
How long does cleft lip or palate surgery take?
The procedure typically lasts two to three hours, depending on the complexity of the cleft.
What is the recovery process like?
Most children recover within a few weeks, with minimal discomfort and scarring. Follow-up visits ensure proper healing and development.
Does cleft repair improve speech?
Yes. Cleft palate repair significantly enhances speech clarity and function, reducing difficulties with pronunciation and nasal speech.
Expert Cleft Lip & Palate Surgery in Camarillo – Book Today
At Channel Islands Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, we are dedicated to helping children and families navigate cleft lip and palate repair with expert surgical care and compassionate support. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Call Now: (820) 777-3793
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