Cleft lip and cleft palate are among the most common congenital malformations that affect children. Incomplete formation of the upper lip (cleft) or roof of the mouth (palate) can occur individually or together. Conditions can vary in severity and may include one or both sides of the face.

The cleft, or separation of the upper lip and/or the roof of the mouth, occurs very early in the development of the fetus. During fetal development, some components of the upper lip and roof of the mouth do not form normally. Most clefts can be repaired through specialized plastic surgery techniques, improving a child's ability to eat, speak, hear and breathe.