Unilateral Cleft Lip

Unilateral cleft lip:

In cleft lip, the baby’s lip does not join properly and leaves an open space called cleft. This condition can happen on both sides of the face (bilateral) or on one side (unilateral). The exact cause of this congenital condition remain unknown, however, it is considered that genetic factors are responsible for a small number of cases.

Microform

The discontinuity of the vermilion cutaneous junction is less than 3 mm. other characteristics may include:

• variable muscular indent along the philtral line
• Subtle nasal asymmetry
• Variable deficiency of vermilion medial to cleft
• Variable alveolar defect

Minor form

The subnasal difference to Cupid’s bow peak distance between sides is more than 3 mm. Other characteristics may include:

• The orbicularis oris is interrupted
• The philtral line depression is prominent
• The nasal asymmetry is more
• Posteroinferior is dislocated of the piriform aperture (in cleft lip side)
• Alveolar cleft

Incomplete 

Full-thickness disjunction of the upper lip occurs. In this type of unilateral cleft lip the upper lip, nasal sill, and floor are continuous though depressed.

Complete

The full-thickness disjunction of the lip extends into the nasal cavity and the alveolus is discontinued.

Cleft lip repair surgery

Cleft repair operation involves fusing the tissues that are separated. There are several different techniques performed by the surgeon, therefore the surgical procedures may also vary. The most prevalent type of this surgery is a rotation advancement repair.