👶 Cleft Palate Surgery (Palatoplasty) in the Philippines
💬 What is Cleft Palate Surgery?
Cleft palate surgery, also called palatoplasty, is a procedure that repairs a congenital gap in the roof of the mouth (palate). This gap may affect the soft palate, hard palate, or both, making it difficult for a child to feed, speak clearly, and hear properly.
The goal of surgery is to close the opening, restore normal speech and swallowing function, and support healthy growth and development.
✅ Cleft Palate Surgery Can Help With:
- Nasal-sounding speech or delayed speech
- Difficulty eating or swallowing
- Frequent ear infections and hearing loss
- Impaired facial growth
- Long-term dental and orthodontic issues
👩⚕️ Why Choose Dr. Aicee Bernal?
Dr. Aicee Bernal is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon who specializes in pediatric cleft and craniofacial surgery. She combines technical expertise with gentle, compassionate care, working closely with each family to create an individualized treatment plan.
With a deep understanding of both function and facial harmony, she performs palatoplasty with precision and long-term outcomes in mind, ensuring the child can eat, speak, and grow with confidence.
🔍 What to Expect After Cleft Palate Surgery
- Ideal Age for Surgery: Around 9 to 18 months old, depending on growth and readiness
- Procedure Time: 2 to 3 hours
- Anesthesia: General anesthesia
- Hospital Stay: 3-4 days
- Recovery Time: 2-4 weeks for initial healing
- Follow-up: Long-term care may include speech therapy, ENT evaluation, and future dental work
💬 Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What happens if cleft palate is not treated?
A: Untreated cleft palate can lead to severe speech problems, feeding challenges, chronic ear infections, and psychosocial difficulties later in life.
Q: Will my child need speech therapy?
A: Yes, many children benefit from speech therapy after surgery to develop proper articulation and language skills.
Q: Can palatoplasty be done in adults?
A: Yes but there is more risk of bleeding and dehiscence. An obturator may be an option for adult patients.
📞 Book a Consultation
Support your child’s future with expert cleft care.
Schedule a palatoplasty consultation with Dr. Aicee Bernal, a trusted cleft and craniofacial surgeon in the Philippines dedicated to restoring function and confidence in every child.