What Is a Complete vs Incomplete Cleft Lip?
Not all cleft lips look the same. Here is how severity is classified.
Cleft lips are classified as complete or incomplete based on how far the cleft extends.
- Complete cleft lip:
- The cleft extends all the way from the lip into the nostril
- The nostril is affected (widened and flattened)
- The nasal cartilage is displaced
- The alveolar ridge (gum line) is also involved
- More severe appearance but still very treatable
- Incomplete cleft lip:
- The cleft does NOT extend into the nostril
- A band of tissue (Simonart's band) often bridges the upper part of the cleft
- The nostril may be mildly affected or normal
- The gum line is usually not involved
- Ranges from a small notch to almost complete separation
- Microform cleft lip:
- A very mild form of incomplete cleft
- Looks like a small notch or scar-like indentation on the lip
- The nostril is usually normal
- Sometimes detected only on close examination
Does severity affect treatment?
| Feature | Complete | Incomplete | Microform |
|---|---|---|---|
| Surgery needed | Yes | Usually yes | Sometimes |
| Nasal correction | Yes | Maybe | Sometimes not |
| Scar | Along cleft | Along cleft | Minimal |
| Functional issues | More likely | Less likely | Rare |
Clinical Guidance
Complete cleft lips extend into the nostril and are more severe. Incomplete clefts do not reach the nose. Microform clefts are very mild. All are treatable, and even complete clefts can be repaired with excellent cosmetic and functional results.