Cleft Lip And Palate Torrance

With Dr. Sherif Khattab in Torrance, California

Cleft lip and cleft palate are two of the most commonly occurring birth defects in the U.S. They occur when the lip and/or roof of the mouth do not grow together properly as an unborn child is developing in the womb.

Board certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Sherif Khattab specializes in cleft lip and cleft palate repair. Through advanced techniques, Dr. Khattab can dramatically improve your child’s quality of life.

When to Consider Cleft Lip and Palate Repair

Almost anyone with a cleft lip or palate may be a good candidate for reconstruction. The procedure can normalize speech, encourage healthy growth and improve swallowing in growing children.

Cleft Lip and Palate Repair Torrance CA

Before and After Cleft Lip And Palate

Cleft reconstruction surgery can be performed on children as young as three months. While palate repair can be performed on children as young as nine months. Generally speaking, the earlier surgery is performed, the better the results. During the consultation process with Dr. Khattab, he will be able to determine if and when cleft lip or palate repair in Torrance CA is right for your son or daughter. 

What to Expect During Cleft Lip and Palate Repair

The consultation: In order to determine if you’re child is a good candidate for reconstruction, you and your child will need to meet with Dr. Khattab for a consultation visit. The consultation will include a physical examination, as well as an in-depth discussion of your child’s medical history and reconstructive goals. This information will help Dr. Khattab determine if cleft lip or palate repair is the right choice for your child.

Surgery: Cleft lip and palate repair is typically performed in a hospital with a general anesthetic. In most cases, only one operation is required to correct the problem. During surgery, Dr. Khattab will repair the soft palate musculature by repositioning the abnormally aligned tissues. The separated tissues will be brought together and secured with sutures. Cleft lip incisions are made on either side of the cleft. While cleft palate incisions are inside of the mouth.

Recovery: Recovery usually takes about a month. Following surgery, Dr. Khattab will provide you will specific aftercare and hygiene instructions. It is likely that the mouth area will be swollen for several days. Antibiotics and pain medications should be administered as necessary. Sutures will be removed within a week. Children should be restricted from toys that may cause unintentional injury to the treated area for several weeks.

Results: Following a full recovery, it will be easier for your child to function and develop normally. Your child may need to undergo additional scar repair surgeries later in life to achieve a more normalized appearance. It is important to keep in mind that reconstruction surgery is only the beginning of the process. Family support and love is critical for your child to grow up withself-esteem that extends beyond physical deformity.

Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Khattab

If you’re ready to learn more about cleft lip and cleft palate repair in Torrance CA, call 310-325-2100 to inquire about a consultation with Dr. Khattab. Beyond Beautiful is located at 23365 Hawthorne Blvd, Suite 102, in Torrance, CA. Since 1988, we have been providing excellent care to patients from nearby Torrance, Long Beach, Redondo Beach, and beyond.

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