Fetal Cleft Lip and Palate: What You See on Ultrasound

During a detailed ultrasound, facial structures are carefully evaluated.

Sometimes, a cleft lip or palate may be detected.

👉 While this can be concerning, it is important to understand what it means.

📌 What Is Cleft Lip and Palate?

• Cleft lip: opening in the upper lip
• Cleft palate: opening in the roof of the mouth

👉 They can occur together or separately

📌 Ultrasound Findings

• Disruption of the lip contour
• Asymmetry below the nose
• Palate is harder to evaluate

👉 3D ultrasound can help visualize

📌 When Is It Detected?

👉 Usually around 20 weeks anatomy scan

📌 Can It Be Treated?

👉 Yes

• Surgical correction after birth
• Good functional and cosmetic outcomes

📌 Final Thoughts

A cleft lip or palate diagnosis can be emotional, but:

👉 It is a treatable condition

👉 Proper evaluation and counseling are important