cleft lip is a birth defect that occurs when the tissues of the upper jaw and nose do not join as expected during fetal development, resulting in a split (cleft) in the lip. an incomplete cleft lip can range from a slight indentation to a notch in the upper lip on one or both sides. a complete cleft lip is a deep split in the lip that extends into one or both sides of the nose. cleft lip can be corrected with one or more surgeries.
current as of: october 24, 2023
author: healthwise staff clinical review board all healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
clinical review board all healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.