The procedure may be performed between the ages of 3 and 6 months old. The type of procedure that Dr Pillay performs will depend on the extent and size of the cleft. In most cases, the surgical repair of a cleft lip leaves a small scar on the lip under the nose.

A cleft palate can be repaired between the ages of 9 and 12 months old. During the procedure, Dr Pillay will connect the muscles of the soft palate and reposition the surrounding tissues in order to close the cleft.

Sometimes, additional surgeries may be required later in your child’s life in order to help improve speech, or facial structure.

How long does recovery take?

After cleft lip repair, your child’s mouth will appear swollen for a week or two. The incision will heal completely after around four weeks.

After cleft palate surgery, it can take up to four weeks for the incision to heal. Dr Pillay may recommend that your child wears padded arm restraints for a week or two following surgery to prevent him or her from touching the site of surgery.