Bringing a child into the world with a deformity often leaves parents fearful of how their child will be viewed or accepted in society. Thankfully, with todays technology, surgons are able to repair most cleft lip and palates. With the skilled hand of a good surgon, many of these obvious deformities become hardly visible. So, for the parents out there who are struggling with the shocking news that their "perfect" baby isn't really "perfect", there is good news. Help is out there and although the number of surgeries can be great, the results can be life changing for your child. It is important above all else to be informed as any surgery accompanies potential risks. 

It is important to remember that the considerations are not just physical for a child born with a deformity. There is the need to discuss surgical repair with parents but feeding and caring for the child is also a priority, espically for the parents. Keeping in mind the psychological impact that this type of condition can have on the parents is extremely important. Nurses need to provide not only the physical support but the emotional as well. The point to remember here is that cases involving cleft lip and cleft palate require a team approach by health care workers. For parents, they simply need to take care of themselves, love their child, keep a positive attitude, and exercise patience. It is a long journey for any family, but one they do not have to take alone.