Cleft lip surgery is a common treatment for children born with a cleft lip, but it's important for parents to understand what to expect during the recovery period and how to properly care for their child post-surgery. The recovery period can vary, and swelling and bruising are common. It's important to follow the surgeon's post-operative instructions, including any restrictions on activity and feeding. After the initial recovery period, parents can help their child to continue healing by providing adequate nutrition, monitoring for signs of infection, and keeping the incision site clean and dry. Additionally, working with a speech therapist can help your child develop their speech and language skills.
A Parent's Guide to Cleft Lip Surgery: Understanding the Early Cleft Lip Repair (ECLR) Technique
A cleft lip is a congenital deformity that can be overwhelming for parents, but it is important to know that there are options for treatment and support. One of the most common treatments is surgery, which is typically performed in the first few months of a child's life. The Early Cleft Lip Repair (ECLR) technique is a less invasive and has a faster recovery time compared to traditional cleft lip repair. Another option is the use of a non-surgical approach known as “nasoalveolar molding (NAM) technique, which can be used before and after surgery to shape the lip and nose. In addition to surgical and non-surgical options, there are also support services available for families dealing with cleft lip. Learn more about these options and how to navigate a cleft lip with confidence in this informative blog post.