Cleft lip is a congenital anomaly that is relatively common in newborns. This condition is characterized by a gap in the lip that should normally fuse completely during fetal development.
The gap may appear in the middle, on the right, or on the left side of the lip, and it is often associated with a cleft palate, which affects the roof of the mouth. A frequently asked question in society is: what causes a baby to be born with a cleft lip?
The answer is not simple, as this condition is usually the result of a combination of genetic and environmental factors that influence fetal development.
An In-depth Understanding of Cleft Lip
Cleft lip occurs when the tissues that form the lip and the palate fail to fuse properly during the first trimester of pregnancy, specifically between the 4th and 9th weeks.
This period is a critical stage in which the fetal facial organs begin to develop. Any disturbance, whether due to internal or external factors, may result in the formation of a cleft in the lip or the palate.
Medically, cleft lip not only affects physical appearance but can also interfere with essential functions such as eating, speaking, and even breathing. Children with this condition often require special care, ranging from surgery to long-term therapy.
This is why it is important for the public to understand the causes of cleft lip in newborns, in order to support prevention efforts and enable early detection.
Risk Factors of Cleft Lip
Although the exact cause of cleft lip remains unclear, experts agree that it involves an interaction between genetic predisposition and environmental influences. Factors known to increase the risk include:
- Family history: A child is more likely to be born with a cleft lip if there are family members with the condition.
- Exposure to tobacco smoke: Both active and passive smoking during pregnancy heighten the risk.
- Alcohol consumption: Alcohol can disrupt fetal development, including the formation of the lip and palate.
- Maternal obesity: Excessive weight before and during pregnancy is associated with a higher likelihood of congenital anomalies.
- Nutritional deficiency: Particularly insufficient folic acid intake, which is crucial during early fetal tissue formation.
- Certain medications: Such as isotretinoin, methotrexate, and some anti-seizure drugs.
- Chronic conditions: Pre-existing diabetes in mothers also plays a role.
- Environmental factors: Exposure to harmful chemicals or maternal infections during pregnancy may affect fetal development.
By recognizing these factors, families can take preventive steps—such as maintaining a healthy lifestyle, avoiding tobacco and alcohol, and ensuring adequate nutritional intake, especially folic acid.
Impact of Cleft Lip on Children
Beyond physical challenges such as eating and speaking difficulties, cleft lip can have a profound psychological impact. Many children struggle socially due to feelings of being different from their peers.
This highlights the critical role of parents, medical professionals, and communities in providing both moral support and access to adequate healthcare.
Cleft lip surgery not only restores appearance but also reinstates vital functions necessary for a child’s growth and development. The earlier the surgery is performed, the greater the chance for children to live healthy, confident, and fulfilling lives.
Free Cleft Lip Surgery in Probolinggo
To commemorate Indonesia’s 80th Independence Day, the spirit of solidarity was once again demonstrated through a free cleft lip surgery program.
PT Paiton Energy, together with PT POMI, Rizani Hospital, Surabaya CLP Center Foundation, and Smile Train Indonesia, organized this initiative to support children’s health in Probolinggo Regency.
The surgeries were carried out on August 16, 2025, at Rizani Hospital, benefitting 15 children. Prior to this, all patients underwent health screening on August 15, 2025, to ensure readiness for surgery.
This was the third time the program had been conducted since August 2024, and the second time it coincided with Independence Day celebrations. The timing carried special meaning—symbolizing freedom for children from physical barriers that hinder their growth.
The event was attended by key figures, including Muhammad Haris, Regent of Probolinggo; Fazil Erwin Alfitri, President Director of PT Paiton Energy; Mirrah Samiyah, Director of Rizani Hospital; and Lobredia Zarasade, Head of the Medical Team at Surabaya CLP Center.
Their presence underscored the commitment of multiple stakeholders to improving children’s quality of life through sustainable healthcare interventions.
The Spirit of Solidarity for Children’s Future
This cleft lip surgery program represents a tangible example of multi-stakeholder collaboration. Its success is not only measured by the number of children treated but also by the long-term impact on their lives.
Children who once struggled with eating, speaking, or self-confidence now have the opportunity to live healthier, more confident, and more successful lives.
Beyond healthcare, the program embodies gotong royong—the Indonesian value of mutual cooperation. By working together, communities and institutions can bring new hope to children and families affected by cleft lip.
Ultimately, understanding the causes of cleft lip is vital for prevention. Yet, when the condition occurs, medical and social support remain the key. Initiatives such as those led by PT Paiton Energy and its partners remind us that independence is not only about freedom from colonial rule but also about breaking free from limitations to pursue a brighter future.
