Top Hospitals in California: Your Go-To Guide for Quality Healthcare
Overview
Having a child born with a cleft palate or cleft lip can be an emotional and challenging experience for any parent. Finding the right hospital for repair surgery is crucial to ensure your child receives the highest quality of care. This article provides an in-depth look at the top 10 hospitals in South California that specialize in cleft lip and cleft palate repair.
Understanding Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate
Cleft lip and cleft palate are birth defects that occur when a baby's lip or mouth do not form properly during pregnancy. A cleft lip occurs when the tissue that forms the upper lip does not join completely, leaving an opening. A cleft palate occurs when the roof of the mouth, called the palate, does not develop normally, leaving an opening between the mouth and nose. These defects can occur together or separately and require surgical repair.
Origin and Diagnosis
Cleft lip and cleft palate originate very early in pregnancy. As the fetus develops, tissues in the mouth and face naturally fuse together. In babies with clefts, this fusion does not happen properly. Clefts are diagnosed during pregnancy using a cleft lip ultrasound or after birth during a physical exam. The severity of the cleft can vary and may be unilateral, bilateral, or midline.
Available Treatments
The treatment for cleft lip and cleft palate focuses on surgically repairing the defects and improving appearance as well as speech, language, hearing, and other developmental issues. Surgery to repair a cleft lip is usually done between 3 to 6 months of age. Surgery to repair a cleft palate is usually done between 9 months and 12 months of age. Additional surgeries and treatments such as speech therapy may be required as the child grows.
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With comprehensive treatment from a team of doctors and therapists, children with cleft lips and cleft palates can thrive and live full, healthy lives with minimal long-term impacts. Early diagnosis, intervention and family support are key to the best outcomes.
Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, located in Los Angeles, California, is nationally ranked in 11 specialties and renowned for its advanced pediatric care. The hospital offers comprehensive treatments for a wide range of conditions, including cleft lip and palate. Cedars-Sinai provides cutting-edge care through a multidisciplinary team approach, ensuring that patients receive the best possible outcomes from initial diagnosis through treatment and rehabilitation. The hospital's commitment to innovation and excellence makes it a leading healthcare provider in the region.
Los Angeles, CA 90048-1865
Stanford Health Care-Stanford Hospital
Stanford Health Care – Stanford Hospital, located in Stanford, California, is a leader in 11 specialties and provides cutting-edge care for pediatric patients. The hospital is known for its specialized surgeries and therapies, including those for cleft lip and palate. Stanford Hospital utilizes the latest medical advancements and a multidisciplinary team to offer comprehensive and individualized care, ensuring that each patient receives optimal treatment and support throughout their healthcare journey.
Stanford, CA 94305
UCLA Medical Center
UCLA Medical Center, located in Los Angeles, California, is ranked in 14 specialties and excels in pediatric care. The hospital offers comprehensive treatment options for children with cleft lip and palate, supported by a multidisciplinary team of experts. UCLA Medical Center is committed to providing innovative and compassionate care, leveraging advanced medical technology and collaborative treatment approaches to enhance the health and well-being of its pediatric patients.
Los Angeles, CA 90095-8358
UC San Diego Health-La Jolla and Hillcrest Hospitals
UC San Diego Health, with campuses in La Jolla and Hillcrest, California, is known for its expertise in 10 specialties. The hospital provides exceptional care for conditions such as cleft lip and palate, utilizing innovative surgical techniques and supportive therapies. UC San Diego Health is dedicated to offering comprehensive and patient-centered care, ensuring that each child receives individualized treatment to meet their unique needs and support their long-term development.
La Jolla, CA 92037
UCSF Health-UCSF Medical Center
UCSF Health – UCSF Medical Center, located in San Francisco, California, is nationally ranked in 14 specialties and provides comprehensive pediatric care. The hospital is renowned for its advanced treatments for cleft lip and palate, supported by a multidisciplinary team that includes plastic surgeons, speech therapists, and pediatric specialists. UCSF Health is committed to offering the highest standards of medical care and innovation, focusing on achieving the best outcomes for children and their families.
San Francisco, CA 94143-0296
Keck Medical Center of USC
Keck Medical Center of USC, located in Los Angeles, California, is nationally ranked in 10 specialties and offers specialized pediatric care. The hospital provides innovative approaches to the treatment of cleft lip and palate, integrating advanced surgical techniques with comprehensive postoperative care. Keck Medical Center is dedicated to delivering high-quality, personalized care to support the health and development of children, backed by the latest medical research and expertise.
Los Angeles, CA 90033-5313
UC Davis Medical Center
UC Davis Medical Center, located in Sacramento, California, is recognized in 8 specialties and offers dedicated pediatric services. The hospital focuses on comprehensive treatment plans for cleft lip and palate, involving a multidisciplinary team that includes plastic surgeons, orthodontists, and speech therapists. UC Davis Medical Center is committed to providing advanced, patient-centered care that addresses both the medical and developmental needs of children and their families.
​Sacramento, CA 95817-2282
Scripps La Jolla Hospitals
Scripps La Jolla Hospitals, located in La Jolla, California, are nationally ranked in 5 specialties and provide advanced care for pediatric patients. The hospitals offer specialized services for children needing cleft lip and palate surgeries, utilizing cutting-edge medical technologies and a team-based approach to care. Scripps La Jolla is dedicated to ensuring that each child receives comprehensive and compassionate treatment, supporting their health and development from diagnosis through recovery.
La Jolla, CA 92037-1200
Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian
Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian, located in Newport Beach, California, is recognized for its performance in 2 specialties and provides comprehensive care for children with cleft lip and palate. The hospital supports advanced treatments with the latest medical technologies, ensuring that children receive personalized care tailored to their specific needs. Hoag is committed to delivering high-quality, compassionate care to support the overall health and well-being of its pediatric patients.
Newport Beach, CA 92663-4120
John Muir Health-Walnut Creek Medical Center
John Muir Health – Walnut Creek Medical Center, located in Walnut Creek, California, is ranked in 3 specialties and offers robust pediatric services. The hospital provides specialized care for children with cleft lip and palate, focusing on both surgical treatment and long-term rehabilitation. John Muir Health is dedicated to offering comprehensive, multidisciplinary care that ensures optimal outcomes and supports the ongoing health and development of children.
Walnut Creek, CA 94598-3194
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Cleft Surgery
Experience and Expertise
When seeking treatment for a congenital condition like cleft lip or palate, experience and expertise of the surgeons and staff are paramount. Look for hospitals with dedicated craniofacial units and surgeons who specialize in cleft repair and have performed hundreds of successful procedures. More experience typically means better long-term results and a lower chance of complications.
Range of Services
The top hospitals will offer a comprehensive range of services for cleft patients, from initial diagnosis and treatment planning to follow-up care and revision surgeries if needed. They should have speech pathologists, dentists, orthodontists and psychologists on staff to properly assess and treat all aspects of cleft care. Some may even have designated cleft palate or craniofacial teams to coordinate care.
Latest Techniques and Technology
Hospitals on the cutting edge will utilize the latest techniques like nasoalveolar molding before surgery to improve outcomes. They should have state-of-the-art facilities and tools like 3D imaging, endoscopes and lasers. Minimally invasive procedures, when appropriate, can lead to quicker recovery and less scarring.
Family-Centered Care
The top hospitals recognize that cleft conditions affect the whole family. They should offer resources and support for parents like counseling services, educational materials and support groups. Family involvement in the treatment planning process is ideal. Look for hospitals with child life specialists, social workers and facilities geared toward children.
Choosing a hospital with experience, expertise, advanced techniques and a family-centered philosophy of care will help ensure the best outcome for your child’s cleft surgery. While cost and location may also be factors, quality of care should be the top priority. With the right team and facility, your child will have the best chance at a safe surgery, successful treatment and positive long-term outcome.
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General Cleft lip & Palate Surgery Information:
How much does Cleft lip and palate repair cost?
Cleft lip and palate repair can cost between $5,000 and $13,405 over 12 months. The cost depends on a number of factors, including the patient's insurance coverage, the surgeon's experience, and the type of procedure. Some procedures may be covered by full medical insurance. Source.
According to the CDC, about 1 in every 1,700 babies in the United States is born with cleft palate. Cleft lip and palate are among the most common birth defects in the country, affecting about one in every 700 babies. However, cleft palate is more common in Asian/Pacific, Latinx, or Native American children than in children of other races. Source.
How long does cleft lip and palate surgery take?
Cleft lip surgery usually takes between 1–6 hours, depending on the type of repair and the extent of the cleft. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia, which means the patient is unconscious during the procedure. The surgeon may use an operating microscope to join the tissues that have not joined before birth. The stitches are then removed after a few days, or may dissolve on their own. Source.
After surgery, the patient will stay in the hospital for at least one night, and most babies can go home after 1–2 days. The surgeon may prescribe medicines to help make the patient more comfortable and protect against infection. The patient will need a liquid or blenderized diet for about 3 weeks after surgery before starting to eat foods that are hard or crunchy. Source.
How long does cleft lip and palate surgery take?
Cleft lip surgery usually takes between 1–6 hours, depending on the type of repair and the extent of the cleft. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia, which means the patient is unconscious during the procedure. The surgeon may use an operating microscope to join the tissues that have not joined before birth. The stitches are then removed after a few days, or may dissolve on their own. Source.
Surgery Resource Information:
Preparing for your child's cleft lip and palate surgery involves several steps and considerations to ensure a safe and successful procedure. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, here's what you should prepare:
Pre-Surgical Considerations
Before the surgery, discuss with your surgeon any pre-surgical considerations, which may include diagnostic testing and medications required before the procedure.
Day-of-Surgery Instructions
Your plastic surgeon will provide specific instructions for the day of the surgery. This typically includes guidelines about fasting, medications, and arrival time at the hospital.
Anesthesia Information
You'll receive detailed information regarding the use of anesthesia during the surgery. Understanding this is crucial for managing expectations about the surgery and post-operative care.
Postoperative Care and Follow-up
Familiarize yourself with the postoperative care requirements and the schedule for follow-up visits. Proper postoperative care is vital for recovery and the best surgical outcome.
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Hospital Admission
Initial cleft lip and cleft palate repairs are usually performed in a hospital setting. Most commonly, this will require an overnight stay for your child, so plan accordingly. It's important to have thorough discussions with your child's surgeon to understand all aspects of the surgery, from preparation to recovery. Feel free to ask any questions you might have to ensure you're fully prepared for your child's procedure.
Hospital Admission
Initial cleft lip and cleft palate repairs are usually performed in a hospital setting. Most commonly, this will require an overnight stay for your child, so plan accordingly.
Post Surgery Information
After cleft palate surgery, you can expect your child to stay in the hospital for at least one or two days. You can expect the following:
Swelling and Bleeding
Swelling and small amounts of bleeding are normal. You can apply ice to the surgical side of the face on the first day after surgery, and early on the second day only. You can use a mustache dressing for nasal bleeding.
Clear Liquids
Your child can drink clear liquids from a cup only, and should not use utensils or straws.
Stitches
Your child will have stitches in their mouth for several weeks, but some dissolve sooner. You can use your tongue, but do not play with the stitches. Do not pull at the stitches, as they will come out on their own.
Snoring
Your child may snore and sound congested for several weeks. This will go away when the swelling goes down and there is less drainage.
Sleep
It may be harder for your child to sleep as well as before surgery, but sleep habits should return to normal after several weeks.
Diet
For the first two weeks after surgery, give only soft food. This allows time for the palate to heal. You can use a blender or food processor to smooth many table foods to an even, baby-food texture. You can add liquids such as chicken or beef broth, milk, gravy, or smooth sauces to meats and vegetables. You can also use fruit juice to blend with fruit. Avoid hard foods such as toast, biscuits or rusks during healing
To learn more about post cleft lip and cleft palate surgery information, please visit the following resource pages by:
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Nationwide Children's Hospital
Additional Resources: -
Cleft Lip & Cleft Palate Surgery: Repair Steps & Post-op Care
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