What is the main goal when repairing cleft lip early?

The main goal of repairing a cleft lip early is to enhance aesthetic appearance and ease feeding. Early surgical intervention is crucial not just for cosmetic reasons but also to facilitate better feeding for infants with this condition. Babies with cleft lip often struggle with proper latching and sucking, which can lead to nutritional deficits. By addressing the cleft early, the surgical repair improves both the functional and visual aspects of the lip, making it easier for the child to feed effectively.

Aesthetic appearance plays an important role in the psychological and social development of the child; therefore, repairing the cleft also helps to promote healthy self-esteem as they grow. While factors such as improved speech clarity and prevention of ear infections are significant considerations for children with cleft lip and palate, these are not the primary goals of the early repair of a cleft lip specifically.