Cleft Lip / Palate Repair
At Aims Aesthetic & Medical Centre, Dr. Zameer Abbas Mir offers expert Cleft Lip and Palate Surgery in Lahore. With extensive experience in reconstructive and aesthetic surgery, Dr. Zameer provides safe, precise, and compassionate treatment for children born with facial deformities.
Dr. Zameer Abbas Mir (M.B.B.S. (Pb), F.C.P.S (Plastic Surgery) CPSP) is a Professor of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery at Sheikh Zaid Hospital and a consultant at Hameed Latif Hospital, Lahore. He is a registered member of the Pakistan Medical & Dental Council (PMDC) and the Pakistan Association of Plastic Surgeons (PAPS).
What is a Cleft Lip?
A cleft lip (and sometimes a cleft palate) is a congenital facial condition where there is a gap or opening in the upper lip, and in some cases, the roof of the mouth. This occurs when parts of the face and nose fail to fuse properly during early pregnancy, typically between the 4th and 8th week of development.
If the cleft appears on one side, it is called a unilateral cleft lip; if it affects both sides, it is a bilateral cleft lip.
Causes of Cleft Lip and Palate
Cleft lip and palate are caused by a mix of genetic and environmental factors. The most common risk factors include:
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Alcohol consumption during pregnancy
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Certain medications, such as anticonvulsants
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Maternal smoking during pregnancy
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Vitamin and folic acid deficiency
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Exposure to teratogens like retinoic acid
These factors can affect normal fetal development and increase the likelihood of facial clefts.
Incidence and Genetic Risk
Among cleft cases, 46% involve both the lip and palate, 33% involve only the palate, and 21% involve the lip alone.
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If one child in the family has a cleft lip or palate, there is about a 4% chance that the next child will also be affected.
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If both previous children had CLP, the risk increases to 9%, and if one parent and a child are affected, it rises to 17%.
These statistics emphasize the importance of early genetic counseling and medical guidance for expecting parents.
Cleft Lip Examination and Pre-Surgical Planning
Dr. Zameer Abbas Mir recommends that newborns with cleft lip or palate be examined within the first few weeks of life. During this consultation, he evaluates whether the cleft is unilateral or bilateral, complete or incomplete, and coordinates with a pediatric specialist to ensure your baby’s overall health.
In the first week, Nasoalveolar Molding (NAM) or lip taping may be advised to gently bring the tissues closer together before surgery, improving final outcomes.
Cleft Lip Surgery in Lahore
Dr. Zameer Abbas Mir typically performs cleft lip surgery at around 3 months of age, and cleft palate surgery at about 1 year. For unilateral clefts, he uses the Millard technique, a globally recognized method that restores both function and natural appearance of the lip and nose.
Disclaimer: Results may vary depending on the individual.*
Nasal Surgery with Cleft Repair
During the cleft lip procedure, nasal reshaping is often performed to improve nose symmetry. A final nasal correction may be recommended during adolescence (around 16 years) for complete facial balance.
Cleft Palate Repair
A cleft palate can cause nasal speech, recurrent ear or throat infections, and feeding difficulties.
