Cleft Lip and Palate Repair in Sugar Land, TX
Dr. David Stapenhorst of Signature Plastic Surgery offers Cleft Lip and Palate Repair to children in the Sugar Land, Texas, and Houston, Texas areas. Cleft Lip, also known as cheiloschisis, and Cleft Palate, or palatoschisis, are two of the most common birth defects in the United States. Cleft Lip refers to an abnormality that occurs when the upper lip does not form properly. Cleft Palate occurs when the roof of the mouth does not form properly. Children may have one or both conditions. In most cases, Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate conditions do not cause other health concerns. These conditions, though, do affect the child’s appearance. With Cleft Lip and Palate Repair, Dr. Stapenhorst helps these children have a more natural appearance.
What happens during the Cleft Lip and Palate Repair procedure by Dr. David Stapenhorst?
Cleft Lip and Palate Repair often require the expertise of several specialists. Dr. Stapenhorst works closely with the child’s medical team to correct the abnormalities, and help the child re-learn basic skills, such as eating and speaking clearly. For Cleft Lip Repair, Dr. Stapenhorst works to close the upper lip while creating a more appropriate curve at the center of the upper lip and ensuring that the distance between the upper lip and nose is appropriate. Cleft Palate Repair requires Dr. Stapenhorst to develop symmetry between the nostrils, maintain appropriate tissue between the nostrils and shape the nose to have an appropriate angle at the tip.
When can normal activities resume after the Cleft Lip and Palate Repair procedure?
Some patients are concerned with the arm restraints used with some children after Cleft Lip and Palate Repair. The arm restraints keep the child from injuring the site of the surgery. Injuries may result in additional surgeries. Dr. Stapenhorst discusses other post-operative activities with the child’s parents during the consultation appointment.
Is there any pain associated with the Cleft Lip and Palate Repair procedure?
After the Cleft Lip and Palate Repair, the child will likely experience pain and swelling. Dr. Stapenhorst may prescribe pain medications to help keep the child comfortable during the healing process.
How much does Cleft Lip and Palate Repair cost in Houston?
Signature Plastic Surgery works with CareCredit® to provide financing options for patients. Within a few hours, you can be pre-approved for your cosmetic procedure.
Dr. Stapenhorst specializes in plastic surgery; visit our other plastic surgery pages including ear deformity surgery, general reconstruction and hand surgery.
