Abstract
The evaluation and treatment of patients with congenital orofacial clefting is a challenging
task. Successful treatment requires a concerted effort by the cleft surgeon and cleft
team to maximize the appearance and function of the cleft patient. To become a competent
cleft surgeon, a facial plastic surgeon must be dedicated to a lifelong pursuit of
technical excellence through continual evaluation, self-criticism, and improvement
of surgical techniques and approaches. The contemporary cleft surgeon must integrate
the knowledge gained by mentors that have years of expert experience and evidence-based
information demonstrated by careful study. This information should help guide the
young cleft surgeon as experience is gained and expertise developed through years
of careful observation and evaluation of patients. This article is a discussion of
the art and science of cleft surgery. It outlines the timetable associated with cleft
repairs, the resources necessary to provide superior cleft care, and exposes the weaknesses
and frailties of all cleft surgeons. It is designed to aid cleft surgeons in their
pursuit of perfection.
Keywords
cleft tip - cleft palate - cleft rhinoplasty - orthognathic surgery - cleft deformity
