Surgery
Our free cleft surgery program helps patients reach reconstructive treatment. Surgical care is planned after assessment by the clinical team.
Our approach
Our approach is simple: comprehensive care and support for individuals affected by cleft lip and palate in Nepal.
What is a cleft?
A cleft is a gap in the upper lip, the roof of the mouth, or both. Clefts can cause difficulties with eating, breathing, hearing, and speaking.
What are cleft lip and palate?
A cleft occurs when structures do not fuse together during development before birth. It can involve the lip or the roof of the mouth, including the hard and soft palate. Many children still face barriers to receiving the reconstructive care they need.
How common are clefts?
Cleft lip and palate affect children around the world. Reported incidence varies across populations and studies. Our work focuses on ensuring that affected children and families can reach assessment and care.
What causes cleft lip and palate?
The causes can involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. In many individual cases, the specific cause is not known. Research continues to improve understanding of the condition.
What does an untreated cleft mean for a child?
Children with untreated clefts may face difficulties eating, breathing, hearing, and speaking. Treatment and continuing support can help address these difficulties and support participation in daily life.
Can clefts be treated?
Reconstructive surgery is part of cleft treatment. Care is planned for each patient and may also include nutritional support, speech therapy, dental care, and follow-up. Families can discuss the treatment plan with the clinical team.
Free cleft surgery across Nepal
Our free cleft surgery program is part of a wider approach to care. Children born with clefts need more than surgery. They may also need nutritional support, dental care, and speech therapy. Sewa Foundation is committed to treating the whole patient through comprehensive cleft care.
Speech therapy
Even after surgery, children may need speech therapy to address language delay, articulation difficulties, and hypernasality.
Nutritional services
Babies with clefts can have difficulty feeding. Mothers and caregivers may need guidance on feeding and supporting healthy growth.
Dental services
Missing, small, or misaligned teeth can occur in cleft patients. Dental and orthodontic services form an important part of rehabilitation.
Emotional support
Visible differences and the experience of treatment can affect confidence and self-esteem. Counseling and support help patients and their families navigate care and recovery.