Facial balance in cleft lip and palate. I. Normal development and cleft palate.

A full understanding of balanced facial growth, based on a complete knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the region, is essential if cleft lip and palate is to be treated successfully. The cleft abnormality is the cause of underdevelopment and subsequent loss of function. Cleft surgery must aim to restore normal anatomy and physiology with emphasis on muscle reconstruction of the lip and soft palate if normal facial development is to be achieved.