Primary cleft lip repair is a reconstructive surgical procedure performed to correct a congenital split in the upper lip. This condition develops during early pregnancy when facial structures do not fuse completely. Timely treatment helps restore facial symmetry, improve function, and support normal growth.
At Smile & Speak, primary cleft lip repair in Lahore is approached as essential medical care rather than cosmetic treatment. Each child is evaluated individually to ensure safe surgery and long-term functional outcomes.
A cleft lip is a birth condition where the upper lip has a visible gap or separation. It may occur on one side (unilateral) or both sides (bilateral). In some cases, the cleft may extend toward the nose and gums.
Cleft lip development is linked to genetic factors, environmental influences, or a combination of both. Family history, certain medications during pregnancy, and maternal health factors can increase risk.
Early identification allows planning for primary cleft lip repair in Lahore at an appropriate stage of infancy.
Surgical repair aims to close the lip gap while restoring muscle continuity and natural lip shape. The procedure is carefully planned to support feeding, speech development, and facial balance.
Primary cleft lip repair is performed under general anesthesia and focuses on precise tissue alignment. The surgical plan depends on whether the cleft is unilateral or bilateral.
Common surgery terms parents may encounter include cleft lip repair surgery name, name of surgery for cleft lip, or repair cleft lip name of surgery. Clinically, this procedure is referred to as primary cleft lip repair.
Before surgery, detailed preparation is essential for safety and optimal outcomes. Preoperative care includes:
Preoperative preparation ensures the child is physically ready and families understand the surgical process clearly.
The primary cleft lip repair technique varies depending on the cleft pattern. Surgeons select the most suitable method to restore symmetry and muscle function.
Techniques may include:
The goal is to achieve a natural lip contour while minimizing scarring and preserving movement. Careful muscle reconstruction plays a critical role in long-term speech and facial development.
Postoperative care is a vital part of recovery. After surgery, the child is monitored closely to ensure proper healing and comfort.
Postoperative care includes:
Most children recover steadily with proper care. Parents receive clear instructions to support healing at home after primary cleft lip repair in Lahore.
Long-term follow-up ensures the repaired lip continues to function well as the child grows. Facial growth can affect appearance over time, making monitoring essential.
Follow-up care focuses on:
Consistent monitoring supports stable, long-lasting results.
Before the surgical procedure, thorough evaluations are conducted to assess the extent and severity of the cleft lip. This involves physical examinations, imaging studies, and consultations with a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals.
Primary cleft lip repair is performed under general anesthesia to ensure the comfort and safety of the child. The surgical procedure involves carefully repositioning and suturing the tissues of the upper lip to close the gap. The goal is to achieve a symmetrical and natural-looking lip contour while preserving or restoring normal function.
After surgery, meticulous postoperative care is essential to monitor healing and prevent complications. The child may need to stay in the hospital for a few days for observation and management of pain. Specialized feeding techniques and oral hygiene practices are also advised to support recovery and minimize the risk of infection.
Dr. Ghulam Qadir Fayyaz is a senior plastic and reconstructive surgeon with extensive experience in cleft lip surgery. His training and clinical background focus on functional restoration and ethical surgical care.
Dr. Fayyaz’s work in cleft care has received recognition nationally and internationally. His contributions to reconstructive surgery reflect years of focused clinical practice and academic involvement.
With more than two decades of experience, Dr. Fayyaz has managed a wide range of cleft conditions. His experience includes primary repairs, secondary revisions, and adult cleft lip repair cases.
This depth of experience supports safe outcomes in primary cleft lip repair in Lahore.
Each patient undergoes a detailed consultation before surgery. Medical history, cleft anatomy, and family concerns are reviewed to develop a customized plan.
The procedure involves careful repositioning of lip tissues and muscle repair. Precise suturing restores structure and function while maintaining natural appearance.
Recovery is gradual. Swelling reduces over time, and scars mature with proper care. Follow-up visits help track healing and address any concerns early.
Correct lip muscle alignment supports normal speech development and articulation.
Repairing the cleft improves feeding ability, reducing difficulty during infancy.
Restoring facial symmetry helps children develop confidence as they grow, supporting emotional well-being.
Primary cleft lip repair is usually performed within the first few months of life once the baby is medically stable. Timing depends on the child’s weight, hemoglobin level, and overall health to ensure safe anesthesia and proper healing.
The Rule of 10 is a traditional safety guideline suggesting the baby should be at least 10 weeks old, weigh 10 pounds, and have a hemoglobin level of 10 g/dL before surgery. It helps ensure safer surgical outcomes.
Primary muscle repair involves reconstructing the orbicularis oris muscle of the upper lip. Proper muscle alignment is essential for normal lip movement, feeding, speech development, and long-term facial growth.
Primary cleft lip repair is the first surgery done in infancy to close the cleft. Secondary repair is performed later to improve appearance, symmetry, or function if needed.
Like any surgery, risks may include bleeding, infection, scarring, or delayed healing. However, when performed by an experienced cleft surgeon under proper medical care, complications are uncommon.
