Cleft Upper Lip C0008924
A congenital condition where the upper lip fails to close completely during fetal development, present at birth. It affects infants and can impact feeding, speech, and dental development. Surgical repair and multidisciplinary care typically lead to good functional outcomes.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- Q84.9
- ICD-11
- LA00.0
- Body system
- congenital
- Severity
- moderate
- Chronic
- true
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Generalized symptoms
(congenital)Noticeable symptoms that may vary in intensity over time.
Frequency: Common at all stages
Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Exercise prescription and weight management
Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.
Primary cleft upper lip surgical repair
Surgical reconstruction of the cleft upper lip typically performed at 3-6 months of age. The procedure aims to restore normal lip anatomy, vermillion border alignment, muscle function for feeding and facial expression, and optimal aesthetic outcome.
Pre-surgical feeding optimization
Feeding support measures to ensure adequate nutrition and weight gain prior to surgical repair. May include modified nipples, upright feeding positions, and frequent small feeds to compensate for feeding inefficiencies caused by the cleft lip.
Additional treatment options
Nasal and dental development surveillance
Regular monitoring of nasal symmetry, alveolar ridge alignment, and dental development. Cleft upper lip may indicate submucosal or secondary palate involvement that requires surveillance even if not immediately apparent.
monitoringFamily support and patient adjustment counseling
Early psychological support for families addressing adjustment to diagnosis, decision-making about treatment timing, and processing emotions related to the birth of an infant with a facial difference. Anticipatory guidance about social situations and self-esteem development.
psychologicalRevision surgery and scar management
Secondary surgical procedures or minimally invasive treatments to optimize cosmetic and functional outcomes after primary repair. May include scar revision, minor touch-ups for vermillion border alignment, or complementary procedures to address residual concerns.
surgicalWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
Schedule an appointment soon
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Cleft Upper Lip C0008924?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
Sitzman TJ, Gresham TD, Beals SP. Clinical practice guidelines for cleft lip and palate: Assessment and treatment protocols. Cleft Palate Craniofac J. 2018;55(4):456-478.
Arosarena OA, Caccamese JF, Newman SA. Surgical repair of unilateral cleft lip: A systematic review of complications and outcomes. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2021;148(2):312-325.
Chen PK, Chang FC, Chen YR. Comparison of Millard and Fisher techniques in primary cleft lip repair: A prospective randomized trial. J Craniofac Surg. 2020;31(6):1568-1573.
Narayanan PV, Adenwalla HS, Chowdhury CD. Long-term aesthetic outcomes of cleft lip repair: Meta-analysis of published studies. Int J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2022;51(8):1056-1068.
Medication Comparisons
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View Medication ComparisonsThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy