St. Louis Cleft-Craniofacial Center

Unique human qualities

Our appearance and ability to speak are unique human qualities that allow us to interact with others. This interaction is critical for children, as they are still developing their social identities and communication skills.

Children born with cleft lip-nose-palate and craniofacial conditions often have problems with appearance and speech. A pediatric plastic surgeon trained in craniofacial surgery can reshape the bones of the skull, face, and jaws to improve appearance and function, as well as the cartilage and soft tissues of the face, eyelids, ears, nose, lips, palate, and tongue. 

The goal of St. Louis Cleft-Craniofacial Cetner is to improve the unique human elements of the child: to look more normal, to have more normal speech, and to be able to function more normally in their growth and development.

Finding the best solutions, for individual needs

Each child is different and so each cleft or craniofacial diagnosis is also different. We are committed through every step, from evaluation, consultation, and innovation, to work for your child's individual needs.

A caring team to best care for your child

Multiple specialists

The St. Louis Cleft-Craniofacial Center is directed by Dr. Alexander Y. Lin with Dr. Christina Plikaitis, plastic surgeons who specialize in cleft-craniofacial surgery, and Debbie Watters, our clinical nurse coordinator.

A multidisciplinary team approach includes our Head Shape Clinic with a physical therapist to work on neck muscle problems (torticollis), and the St. Louis Cleft-Craniofacial Center with a full team including Speech Language Pathology specialist for evaluating and treating speech issues. 

Open and direct communication

It's important for parents to understand their child's condition as completely as possible. Communicating with parents and children in a clear-cut and understandable way is an essential part of our mission.

Nationally affiliated

We are designated an Affiliated Team by the American Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Association (ACPA), the governing association of cleft-craniofacial centers.

Conditions we treat

Our multidisciplinary cleft and craniofacial team allows for your child to see multiple specialists for comprehensive care of these complex conditions.

  Cleft Lip and Palate

  Complex Craniofacial Syndromes

  Cranial Deformities

  Craniosynostosis

  In situ Osteogenesis

  Microtia

Discharge instructions

  Cleft Lip Repair

  Cleft Palate Repair

  Pharyngeal Flap/Sphincter Pharyngoplasty