A cleft lip is a congenital condition that occurs when the tissue forming the upper lip fails to fully develop during pregnancy, resulting in a visible gap or split. This can manifest as a small notch or a more pronounced separation that extends toward the nose. Cleft lips can be unilateral, affecting only one side of the lip, or bilateral, appearing on both sides. In some cases, the cleft may also involve the underlying gums and jaw, potentially impacting a child’s ability to feed, speak, and develop proper dental alignment. Early medical intervention, including surgery, can help restore both function and appearance, improving the child’s overall quality of life.