Surgery and Beyond

Cleft conditions profoundly impact the entire individual, influencing not only their physical appearance but also their emotional and social well-being. In response, Operation Smile treats the whole person by providing comprehensive cleft care.

What is Comprehensive Cleft Care?

Lilia, held by her mom, Valeria, before surgery.

Children with cleft conditions frequently require a series of surgical procedures, along with a spectrum of supportive services such as dental care, orthodontic treatment, nutritional guidance, speech therapy and psychosocial support as they navigate their growth and development. At Operation Smile, our dedicated teams comprise certified medical specialists who are committed to delivering the gold standard of care at every stage of this journey.

We are unwavering in our commitment to providing as complete as possible care through an ecosystem of care that ensures every child’s journey is safe, supported and successful. Our holistic approach guarantees that each child receives comprehensive support before, during and after surgery. Through this multifaceted strategy, we strive to empower every child to achieve their fullest potential, fostering not only physical healing but also emotional and social flourishing.

Dr. Ruben Ayala speaks with a patient's family after surgery.

We can correct this. It just takes the ability to dream and action to actually follow through and turn that dream into a reality.

— Dr. Ruben Ayala, Chief of Policy and Advocacy, Operation Smile

Our Comprehensive Care Model

Our approach to care ensures that every patient’s journey receives as complete as possible care, making it safe, supported and successful.

Nutrition

Infants with cleft conditions can struggle with nursing and feeding, which can lead to malnutrition. Operation Smile provides global nutrition programs to ensure surgical patients get the support they need for optimal growth and development.

Nutritionist Dede Kwadjo feeds 1-year-old Nana.
Nutritionist Dede Kwadjo feeds 1-year-old Nana.

Oral Health

Oral health care is a vital component of the as complete as possible care provided by Operation Smile. By integrating oral health care into our comprehensive cleft care model, Operation Smile aims to enhance the overall well-being of our patients, ensuring that their dental health is prioritized alongside surgical and nutritional needs.

Dr. Dane Hoang provides a patient with dentistry during the 2016 Operation Smile dental program at Hue Odonto-Stomatology Hospital in Hue, Vietnam.
Dr. Dane Hoang provides a patient with dentistry during the 2016 Operation Smile dental program at Hue Odonto-Stomatology Hospital in Hue, Vietnam.

Psychosocial Care

At Operation Smile, we provide whole-person, developmentally appropriate care that is family-centered and culturally sensitive. Our psychosocial support aims to address not only the emotional and psychological needs of our patients but also to empower families throughout the healing process. By fostering an environment of understanding and compassion, we help children and their families navigate the complexities of living with a cleft condition, promoting resilience and overall well-being.

A patient and volunteer discuss anesthesia during a psychosocial care session in Ho, Ghana.
A patient and volunteer discuss anesthesia during a psychosocial care session in Ho, Ghana.

Speech Care

Many children with cleft conditions may feel self-conscious about their speech or struggle to articulate certain sounds. Through speech therapy, these children can achieve more than just improved communication; they can form deeper connections with their families, friends and communities. Our specialized speech therapy programs are designed to enhance their verbal skills, fostering confidence and promoting meaningful interactions that enrich their lives and relationships.

Operation Smile speech therapist Milena Cleves works with a patient.
Operation Smile speech therapist Milena Cleves works with a patient.

Cleft Surgery

Every child deserves safe surgery and care. For patients who receive cleft surgery, a new life can begin a life that’s free from stigma and filled with the hope for a brighter future.

Surgeon Sibma Fidel provides care during a program in Kibuye, Rwanda.
Surgeon Sibma Fidel provides care during a program in Kibuye, Rwanda.

Volunteer With Us

Join our global community of medical volunteers who strive for excellence for all patients — for every child and every family.

Surgeon Victoire Mukamitari poses for a photo.

Beyond Patient Care

Our work goes beyond direct patient care. We strengthen health care systems in the countries we work and educate health care providers, ensuring everyone has access to the safe surgery they need.

Get Involved

You can give a child the chance to grow up happy and healthy — free from stigma and isolation, and full of hope for the future.

More Ways to Get Involved

Make Your Gift

Your gift today will help transform lives and increase access to essential surgical care.

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