and support speech development. Additional surgeries may be required into the teen years to refine appearance or address speech and jaw alignment. Further interventions, such as ear tube placement, can prevent hearing loss from fluid buildup, while pre-surgical techniques like Nasoalveolar Molding (NAM) or specialised taping help shape the lip and nose, ensuring children achieve the best results. BEYOND THE SCALPEL Surgery for a cleft lip and/or palate can be life-changing, enabling children to eat, breathe, and speak with greater ease while improving facial appearance and boosting self-esteem. Dr Briner notes that while surgery is safe and effective, there are post-surgical risks like infection, bleeding, scarring, nerve damage, and anaesthesia. However, these are largely manageable with proper care and follow-ups. Comprehensive post-surgical care is also vital and may include speech therapy, orthodontic treatment, and regular dental and hearing evaluations. Psychologists and counsellors can also help children navigate the emotional challenges of repeated procedures and building self-confidence as they grow. “The truth is that some children may face long-term challenges, such as speech difficulties, hearing problems, dental issues, and social or emotional struggles,” says Dr Briner. “However, with proper care, most children with cleft lip and palate can recover and go on to live happy, fulfilling lives.” * The Risk of Orofacial Cleft Lip/Palate Due to Maternal Ambient Air Pollution Exposure: A Call for Further Research in South Africa – PubMed Sources: Dr Carmen Briner – General Practitioner; Dr Larisse Badenhorst – General Practitioner; www.datelinehealthafrica.org; www.mayoclinic.org; www.operationsmile.org.za; www.smiletrain.org; www.smilefoundationsa.org; www.blissfulcleft.org CONTENTS | 44 BETTER CHILD The Dis-Chem Foundation provides care packs to all the children who go to hospital for operations during Smile Week. HOPE FOR THE HELPLESS “The diagnosis and treatment of cleft lip and/or palate remain significant public health challenges, particularly in lower-middle-income countries like South Africa, where access to affordable, multidisciplinary care is limited,” says Dr Badenhorst. Fortunately, some organisations work to raise awareness and funds for surgeries for disadvantaged local children, she adds. These include: • Operation Smile South Africa – www.operationsmile.org.za • Smile Train – www.smiletrain.org • Smile Foundation – www.smilefoundationsa.org • Blissful Cleft Foundation – www.blissfulcleft.org • Cleft Friends – cleftfriends@ smilefoundationsa.org