Cleft Lip and Palate Chicago
The incomplete formation of the upper lip at birth is referred to as a cleft lip. The same defect in the roof of the mouth is known as a cleft palate, and these two craniofacial malformations are among the most common in the United States. They can occur completely or incompletely, as well as together or individually, which makes the conditions vary in severity.
A cleft lip or palate is more than just an aesthetic facial difference; they can impair a child’s ability to speak, eat, and breathe. The Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago has experience in hundreds of procedures to repair facial clefts. We recognize that each case is highly individualized, and that the functional aspects of this procedure are just as important as the aesthetic.
CANDIDATES FOR CLEFT LIP AND PALATE REPAIR
Cleft lips and palates are evident upon birth, and the best time to perform the surgical procedure to correct them is usually during the first year of life. Cleft lip repairs are often carried out when the child is at least three to four months old; cleft palates are typically repaired later, between nine and twelve months of age. It is important to discuss treatment options early with both your pediatrician and plastic surgeon, since a cleft may affect the development of other areas, like the nose, teeth, and face.
Children that have particularly wide or large clefts may be candidates for NAM, or nasoalveolar molding, which is a nonsurgical, minimally invasive approach to reshaping the lips, gums, and nose prior to cleft lip and palate surgery. The NAM technique uses a plastic-like plate to reduce the cleft before the initial cleft lip repair, often resulting in fewer overall procedures your child may need over the course of their development. Be sure to speak with your plastic surgeon to see if NAM may be an option prior to cleft lip and palate surgery.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM YOUR CONSULTATION
The first step on the path along your child’s treatment plan is a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon that has additional training in craniofacial surgery. During this initial consultation, be prepared to discuss treatment options, an extensive overview of the procedures involved, potential complications, and the recovery process.
When you schedule a consultation with the Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago, you will speak with a board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in craniofacial surgery, and will take the time to explain every aspect of a treatment plan to each patient or parent.
HOW CLEFT LIP AND PALATE REPAIR IS PERFORMED
The objective of a cleft lip repair is to close the separation in the lip in such a way that provides function and improves appearance. At the time of the cleft lip repair, surgery is also performed on the nose in order to improve the overall facial symmetry of your child. If there is a cleft in the gum as well, we will repair that if the cleft width is of minimal size (2 mm). Repairing the hole in the gum allows the development and growth of teeth through the cleft.
In a cleft palate surgery, the muscle and tissues are repositioned to close the hole in the roof of the mouth. The uvula, or the “punching bag” in the back of the throat, is also repaired during the cleft palate surgery.
All surgical procedures by the Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago are performed at top hospitals in Chicago and CMS or AAAASF-certified surgical centers for safety. The procedure begins with general anesthesia; the corrections made depend on the location and severity of the cleft(s).
In a cleft lip surgery, the plastic surgeon will make incisions on either side of the affected area to create flaps of tissue, which are then mobilized, repositioned, and gently pulled together to close the cleft. These flaps are stitched with both absorbable and non-absorbable sutures that require removal. A reconstruction of the nasal defect and gums are also performed at the time of the cleft lip repair.
Cleft palate surgery requires specialized techniques to reposition the tissue of both the soft and hard parts of the roof of the mouth. The muscles and soft tissue of the roof of the mouth are closed carefully and in such a way that allows normal eating, breathing, and speech development.
RECOVERY AFTER CLEFT LIP AND PALATE REPAIR
After surgery, antibiotic ointment is usually applied to the surgical site, and medications will be prescribed to alleviate pain. It is essential to follow all post-operative care instructions from your surgeon, including specialized feeding or restrictions on physical activity.
Swelling and discomfort are common after cleft lip or palate surgery. It will take several weeks to heal completely, after which swelling will wane and disappear completely.
While the results of a cleft lip and palate surgery are immediately noticeable, it may be necessary to perform secondary procedures as the patient develops, to improve both function and appearance.
POTENTIAL RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH CLEFT LIP AND PALATE REPAIR
Always discuss potential risks with your plastic surgeon before deciding to have any surgical procedure performed. The possible complications associated with cleft lip and palate repair include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Irregular or asymmetrical scars
- Possibility of secondary surgeries
- Speech difficulties
Always make sure that the surgeon performing the procedure is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery with subspecialty training in craniofacial surgery, and that the surgery is being carried out in an accredited surgical facility.
WHAT DOES CLEFT LIP AND PALATE REPAIR COST?
Most health insurance plans will cover a majority, or even the entirety, of a cleft repair procedure because it is considered reconstructive in nature. Health coverage varies, so please contact your health insurance provider before scheduling a consultation.
SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION
The decision to undergo a surgical procedure is never a simple one, and it involves a great deal of trust—especially when the patient is your child. The Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago has more than just experience in the traditional hospital setting; our plastic surgeons have served on international missions to help children with cleft lips and palates in other countries, performing life-changing procedures for those who otherwise lack access to modern healthcare. Compassion is at the core of who we are and what we do. For any questions about cleft lip and palate repair, call us to schedule a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon.
All surgical procedures by the Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago are performed at top hospitals in Chicago and CMS or AAAASF-certified surgical centers for safety.
GOOGLE REVIEWS
JOIN US ON INSTAGRAM
Happy National Botox Day! 💉
Botox isn’t just about smoothing fine lines and wrinkles; it has many additional medical benefits too!
Benefits of Botox include:
✨ Migraines: Botox can help reduce the frequency of migraines, especially for people who experience headaches 15 or more days per month.Â
✨ Excessive sweating: Botox can help with excessive sweating, also known as Hyperhidrosis, by paralyzing the muscles around sweat glands.Â
✨ Eye problems: Botox can correct physical eye problems like lazy eye, crossed eyes, and rapid eye blinking.Â
✨ Neck spasms: Botox can help with neck spasms, also known as Cervical Dystonia, which can cause the neck muscles to contract uncontrollably.Â
✨ Jaw tension: Botox can help with jaw tension and TMJ by reducing muscle activity in the masseter muscle.
📆 Book your consultation and let’s talk Botox!Â
#Explore #ExplorePage #discoverunder100k #NationalBotoxDay #Botox #BotoxCheck #PlasticSurgeon #PlasticSurgery #Chicago #ChicagoPlasticSurgery #ChicagoPlasticSurgeon
✨ Post-surgery care is key to achieving your best results! ✨
Here are a few tips to help minimize scar visibility:
1. Follow Post-Operative Instructions Carefully!
This typically includes keeping incisions clean, avoiding strenuous activities, and wearing recommended tissue-healing support garments if needed.
2. Use Silicone-Based Products!
Applying silicone sheets or gels can reduce scar thickness and discoloration. These products create a protective barrier to maintain moisture levels and promote smoother skin regeneration.
3. Massage Gently!
Once cleared by your plastic surgeon, gently massaging the scar tissue can improve circulation and flexibility to soften or fade scars.
4. Protect from Sun Exposure!
Exposing healing scars to sunlight can cause darkening and prolong the healing process. Use SPF, a broad-spectrum sunscreen, and cover the area appropriately when spending time outdoors.
5. Consider Advanced Treatments!
Treatments like laser therapy or microdermabrasion may benefit persistent or prominent scars more. These treatments can enhance skin texture and color, making scars less noticeable. Always consult with your plastic surgeon before pursuing additional treatments.
Remember, patience is part of the process! ❤️
#Explore #ExplorePage #discoverunder100k #ScarCare #ScarHealing #PlasticSurgeryTips #PlasticSurgeon #Chicago #ChicagoPlasticSurgery #ChicagoPlasticSurgeon #PlasticSurgery
Ever wonder how plastic surgeons create custom facial implants? 🤔
Plastic surgeons will use a CT scan of your face and work with engineers to surgically design and plan the custom implants. The models and implants are created with a 3D printer, which are then used in the operating room. The implants can be made with a number of different materials, for example titanium or PEEK (Polyetheretherketone). The main advantage of Virtual Surgical Planning is being able to customize the surgical plan to the patient’s anatomy and goals. ✨
Posted with permission. This is an educational post.
#Explore #ExplorePage #discoverunder100k #FaceImplants #FacialImplants #PlasticSurgery #PlasticSurgeon #CosmeticSurgery #Chicago #ChicagoPlasticSurgery #ChicagoPlasticSurgeon #PlasticSurgeryChicago
Liposuction VS. Tummy Tuck, what’s the difference? 👀
Although they can target similar areas, they target different needs. Let’s talk about it! ✨
✍️ Liposuction is ideal for removing stubborn fat deposits, offering targeted sculpting without major surgery. This procedure removes unwanted and excess fat from the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, arms, and neck through tiny incisions. This is a less invasive procedure and has a quicker recovery time as compared to a tummy tuck. A liposuction is usually performed on people who are close to their ideal weight and have firm skin.
✍️ A Tummy Tuck goes deeper, targeting abdominal muscles and removing excess skin for a firmer, smoother appearance. A Tummy Tuck is the common term given to Abdominoplasty, a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen through a larger incision. The goal of this procedure is a smoother, flatter, well-defined abdomen and, in some cases, to restore weakened muscles of the abdomen. It’s typically performed on people who have lost a significant amount of weight or have gone through pregnancy.
#Explore #ExplorePage #discoverunder100k #BodyContouring #Liposuction #TummyTuck #Abdominoplasty #PlasticSurgery #PlasticSurgeon #CosmeticSurgery #Chicago #ChicagoPlasticSurgery #ChicagoPlasticSurgeon #PlasticSurgeryChicago
Can you spot the difference between the before and after? 🔍
This patient wanted and underwent a subtle, natural-looking lip lift to improve the height and proportions of her upper lip and the amount of tooth show. Post-op, the surgical site scar is nearly invisible, lying flat and soft against the skin. The difference might be subtle, but the results speak for themselves! đź‘„
Posted with permission.
#Explore #ExplorePage #discoverunder100k #LipLift #PlasticSurgery #PlasticSurgeon #CosmeticSurgery #Chicago #ChicagoPlasticSurgery #ChicagoPlasticSurgeon #PlasticSurgeryChicago
Can you believe we removed nearly 5 pounds of breast tissue? 🌸
Breast reduction, also known as a reduction mammoplasty, is a procedure that removes excess fat and glandular tissue from the breasts to reach a size that is proportionate to other parts of the body. This transformative procedure can equally be useful in alleviating discomfort from overly large breasts. The weight of excess breast tissue can lead to physical issues, such as back problems and neck pain. From reducing back pain to enhancing everyday mobility and confidence, breast reduction can be a life-changing step toward feeling more comfortable in your body. ✨
Posted with permission.
#Explore #ExplorePage #discoverunder100k #BreastReduction #PlasticSurgeryRecovery #PlasticSurgery #PlasticSurgeon #CosmeticSurgery #Chicago #ChicagoPlasticSurgery #ChicagoPlasticSurgeon #PlasticSurgeryChicago
Check out this incredible transformation! 💪 This patient wanted to improve the contour and aesthetics of his lower face, jawline, and neck—especially on his profile view. His primary concerns were a poorly defined jawline and excess skin around the neck.
After undergoing neck liposuction and a sliding genioplasty, the results speak for themselves! The neck muscles were tightened, excess fat removed, and the overall balance of his face was greatly enhanced. Now, in the post-operative photos, his jawline and neck contour are more defined, and his overall appearance has a more youthful, refreshed look. Posted with permission. ✨
#Explore #ExplorePage #discoverunder100k #NeckLipo #NeckLiposuction #SlidingGenioplasty #ChinAugmentation #Genioplasty #PlasticSurgery #PlasticSurgeon #CosmeticSurgery #Chicago #ChicagoPlasticSurgery #ChicagoPlasticSurgeon #PlasticSurgeryChicago
Fall and Winter 🤝 The Best Seasons for Plastic Surgery
Why are Fall and Winter the best times to get plastic surgery?
1. Less Sun Exposure
— Reduced sunlight is favorable for minimizing hyperpigmentation and promoting scar healing.
2. Loose-Fitting Clothes
— Wearing layers of loose clothing in the colder months allows for more protection of surgical areas and easier concealment of bandages and compression garments, making the recovery process less noticeable.
3. Reduced Swelling
— Cooler temperatures help to minimize swelling after surgery and speed up the recovery process.
4. Holiday Time Off
— The holiday season usually provides extended time off from work or school, which is beneficial for post-operative recovery
At our clinic, patient care is our top priority, and choosing the right time for your procedure is part of that commitment. Thus, we optimally recommend the fall and winter time to plan, undergo, and recover from plastic surgery. 🍂❄️
#Explore #ExplorePage #discoverunder100k #PlasticSurgeryRecovery #RecoveryTips #PlasticSurgeryRecoveryTips #PlasticSurgery #PlasticSurgeon #CosmeticSurgery #Chicago #ChicagoPlasticSurgery #ChicagoPlasticSurgeon #PlasticSurgeryChicago
