Cleft and Craniofacial Program
Call today to schedule an appointment with one of our pediatric specialists.
Otolaryngology Referrals
From cleft lip and cleft palate repair to complete facial reconstruction, CHOC uses the very latest and advanced techniques to help a child with a craniofacial disorder look, eat and speak just like other children. The CHOC Cleft and Craniofacial Program is an approved team with the American Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Association, meaning our program has met specific guidelines for working as an interdisciplinary team.
Since growth is a significant factor in the ultimate outcome of treatment, children are assessed thoroughly and regularly by the team until young adulthood. Our goal is to ensure the best possible outcome for children born with clefts or other craniofacial birth defects.
Appointments
The CHOC Craniofacial Clinic is located inside the CHOC Clinic building on our main campus. For more information about the CHOC Cleft and Craniofacial Program or to refer a patient, please contact Program Coordinator Sharon Vargas at (714) 509-8378.
Many health centers across the country are qualified to treat cleft and craniofacial disorders, but not all offer a multidisciplinary team that can care for the variety of related issues that can occur. At CHOC, we not only have a uniquely comprehensive team, we also offer easy coordination with every specialist including scheduling, communication and follow-up treatments. We always work closely with families to carry out a plan that is sensitive to a child’s needs.
Our multidisciplinary team includes:
- Audiologists
- Genetic counselors
- Geneticists
- Neurosurgeons
- Nurses
- Ophthalmologists
- Orthodontists
At the close of every team clinic session, the entire craniofacial team gathers to discuss each patient and aspect of his or her treatment. From there, our program coordinator maps out a plan for families and stays in close communication to ensure a seamless experience from start to finish. Our program coordinator serves as a point of contact to answer any questions and acts as an advocate for families along the way.
Through our membership with the American Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Association, we also offer access to educational resources regarding treatment and support issues.
Featured Stories
Birth Defects
From patient to advocate: Trinity’s journey with cleft lip and palate
Trinity was born with cleft lip and palate & has undergone many surgeries in 10 years. She plans to keep singing and inspiring others.
CHOC Health 
Birth Defects
Genetic Syndrome Causes Cleft Lip, Palate in Sisters
A pair of sisters have benefited from the expertise and care of CHOC specialists in treating their cleft lip and Van der Woude syndrome.