Cleft lip has often been perceived as merely an aesthetic disorder. However, the condition has serious medical implications if not treated early, especially for children's growth and development, said Major General TNI (ret.) dr Budiman, Chairman of the Smile Train Southeast Asia Medical Council.
"If not operated on in time, the baby will have difficulty sucking and consuming food. In fact, the ability to suck is very important for newborns," said Dr. Budiman at the Smile Train in Southeast Asia: Creating Smiles Through Safe & Quality Cleft Surgeries event in Jakarta, Tuesday.
This disorder, according to him, can cause malnutrition and the risk of stunting or dwarfism, because the child's weight does not develop optimally.
"Child development in terms of weight will be disrupted. The risk of stunting is also higher," he said.
In addition to impacting nutritional intake, cleft lip accompanied by abnormalities of the palate can also hinder a child's ability to speak.
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