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Does joaquin phoenix have a hair lip. Joaquin Phoenix’s Scar: Exploring Celebrity Scars and Their Stories

Does Joaquin Phoenix have a hair lip. What causes cleft lip. How do celebrities embrace their scars. What are some famous celebrity scars and their origins. How can scars be managed and treated.

The Truth Behind Joaquin Phoenix’s Distinctive Mark

Joaquin Phoenix, the acclaimed actor known for his intense performances, has a distinctive mark between his lip and nose that many have speculated about. Contrary to popular belief, this is not a scar or a hair lip. Phoenix was born with a microform cleft, which is the mildest form of cleft lip. This condition typically appears as a subtle scar or notch on the upper lip, often mistaken for an injury.

Cleft lip is a congenital condition that occurs when the tissues of the lip do not fuse properly during fetal development. In Phoenix’s case, the microform cleft is so mild that it has not affected his speech or required surgical intervention. Instead, it has become a unique feature that adds character to his appearance.

Celebrity Scars: Stories of Resilience and Acceptance

Phoenix is not alone in the world of celebrities with distinctive marks or scars. Many famous individuals have embraced their scars, turning them into symbols of strength and individuality. Let’s explore some of these notable stories:

Seal: Overcoming Discoid Lupus Erythematosus

The Grammy award-winning singer Seal is known for his powerful voice and the distinctive scars on his face and scalp. These scars are the result of discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE), a skin condition he experienced as a teenager. DLE is an autoimmune disease that causes the immune cells to attack the skin, leading to inflammation and scarring.

Dr. Jessica Krant, a board-certified dermatologist, explains: “DLE is a disfiguring disease in which the immune cells attack the skin from underneath, creating inflammatory areas and scarring of the scalp, ears, face, and sometimes chest and arms. The scars that form from the disease are permanent, so prevention and early treatment is the best management.”

J.R. Martinez: A Symbol of Courage

J.R. Martinez, an actor and former U.S. Army soldier, sustained severe burns on over 40 percent of his body when his Humvee hit a landmine in Iraq. Instead of letting his scars define him negatively, Martinez has turned them into a source of inspiration. He has visited other wounded veterans, offering hope and finding purpose in his own journey of recovery.

The treatment for extensive burns like Martinez’s is complex. Dr. Krant notes, “Once a burn patient is stabilized, the treatment depends on how large an area has been affected. New skin must be either taken from another area of the body, grown from the patient’s own cells, or applied from an artificial graft.”

The Untold Stories: Celebrities and Their Scars

While some celebrities are open about their scars, others prefer to keep the stories behind them private. Tina Fey, for instance, has a scar on the left side of her face from a childhood incident involving a stranger. She rarely discusses its origin and often covers it with makeup.

Harrison Ford’s iconic chin scar, which has been incorporated into some of his movie roles, was actually the result of a car accident. The actor lost control of his vehicle while trying to put on his seatbelt while driving.

Mary J. Blige has never publicly discussed the origin of the scar below her left eye, but she has spoken about self-acceptance and loving one’s perceived flaws. “If I don’t accept the scar on my face, the lips that God gave me, the big giant feet, the long legs, whatever it is that I’m deformed with, I got to love it so everybody else can love it,” Blige has said.

Scar Management: Tips from a Dermatologist

For those dealing with scars, whether from accidents, surgeries, or medical conditions, proper management can make a significant difference. Dr. Krant offers several insights on scar treatment:

  • Corticosteroid injections can help flatten and relax raised scars
  • Silicone gel sheeting may improve scar appearance
  • Certain types of lasers can be beneficial for some scars
  • Massage and time are crucial factors in scar improvement
  • In some cases, surgical revision can create a less visible scar

For fresh wounds, Dr. Krant advises, “Keep the wound moist with petroleum jelly and out of the sun, and seek a doctor’s advice immediately to see if it’s the type of wound that would benefit from suturing.”

Embracing Imperfections: The Changing Perception of Scars

The stories of these celebrities highlight a shifting perception of scars in society. Rather than viewing them as flaws to be hidden, many are now embracing their scars as unique features that tell a story. Padma Lakshmi, for example, has grown fond of the seven-inch scar on her arm from a car accident, seeing it as a mark of an interesting past rather than an imperfection.

This changing attitude reflects a broader movement towards body positivity and self-acceptance. Scars, whether from accidents, medical conditions, or congenital features like Joaquin Phoenix’s microform cleft, are increasingly being seen as part of what makes each individual unique.

The Science Behind Scar Formation and Healing

Understanding the biology of scar formation can help in managing and treating them effectively. When the skin is injured, the body’s natural healing process kicks in, producing collagen to repair the damage. This process can result in the formation of scar tissue, which may appear different from the surrounding skin.

Factors that influence scar formation include:

  1. The depth and size of the wound
  2. The location on the body
  3. Age and genetics
  4. Skin type and color
  5. The direction of the wound in relation to natural skin lines

Advances in medical technology have led to improved treatments for scar management. These include:

  • Advanced wound closure techniques
  • Topical treatments to reduce scar visibility
  • Laser therapies for scar revision
  • Microneedling and other minimally invasive procedures

The Psychological Impact of Scars and Disfigurement

While the physical aspects of scars are often the focus, the psychological impact can be equally significant. Visible scars or disfigurements can affect self-esteem, body image, and social interactions. However, as demonstrated by many of the celebrities mentioned, it’s possible to overcome these challenges and even find empowerment through one’s scars.

Psychological approaches to dealing with scars include:

  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy to address negative thought patterns
  • Support groups for individuals with similar experiences
  • Mindfulness and acceptance techniques
  • Body image workshops and counseling

The stories of celebrities like J.R. Martinez, who have used their scars as a platform for advocacy and inspiration, highlight the potential for personal growth and positive impact that can come from embracing one’s unique features.

Scars in Popular Culture: Changing Narratives and Representations

The representation of scars in media and popular culture has evolved over time. Historically, scars were often used as a visual shorthand for villainous characters or to denote a troubled past. However, more nuanced and positive portrayals have emerged in recent years.

Examples of changing narratives around scars in popular culture include:

  • Superhero characters with visible scars or disfigurements portrayed as heroes
  • Fashion campaigns featuring models with scars to promote inclusivity
  • Documentaries and films exploring the stories behind scars and disfigurements
  • Social media movements encouraging individuals to share their scar stories

These shifts in representation contribute to greater awareness and acceptance of scars and disfigurements in society, challenging traditional beauty standards and promoting a more inclusive definition of attractiveness.

The Role of Makeup and Special Effects in Scar Representation

In the film industry, makeup artists and special effects teams play a crucial role in creating realistic scars for characters or concealing actors’ real scars when needed. This artistry has contributed to more authentic representations of scars in media, helping to normalize their appearance and tell more diverse stories.

Techniques used in scar makeup and special effects include:

  • Prosthetic applications for raised or textured scars
  • Airbrushing and color correction for subtle discolorations
  • Silicone-based products for creating realistic skin textures
  • Digital effects for enhancing or altering scar appearances in post-production

Innovations in Scar Treatment and Management

As medical technology advances, new treatments for scar management continue to emerge. These innovations offer hope for improved outcomes in scar appearance and functionality. Some of the latest developments include:

Stem Cell Therapy

Researchers are exploring the use of stem cells to promote skin regeneration and reduce scarring. This approach shows promise in minimizing scar formation and improving the appearance of existing scars.

3D-Printed Skin Grafts

Advancements in 3D printing technology have led to the development of custom skin grafts. These grafts can be designed to match the patient’s skin tone and texture, potentially offering better aesthetic outcomes for large or complex scars.

Smart Bandages

Innovative “smart” bandages incorporate sensors and drug delivery systems to monitor wound healing and deliver targeted treatments. This technology could revolutionize wound care and scar management.

Gene Therapy

Genetic approaches to scar management are being investigated, with the goal of modifying the body’s healing response to reduce excessive scarring.

While many of these treatments are still in development or early stages of clinical use, they represent exciting possibilities for the future of scar management and treatment.

Living with Scars: Practical Advice and Support

For individuals living with scars, whether from accidents, surgeries, or medical conditions, there are numerous resources and strategies available for support and management. Here are some practical tips:

  • Sun protection: Scars are particularly sensitive to sun damage. Always use a high SPF sunscreen on exposed scars.
  • Hydration: Keep scars well-moisturized to improve their appearance and flexibility.
  • Massage: Gentle massage can help improve scar texture and reduce tightness.
  • Silicone sheets or gels: These products can help flatten and soften raised scars.
  • Makeup: Specialized cosmetic products can help conceal scars if desired.
  • Support groups: Connecting with others who have similar experiences can provide emotional support and practical advice.

Remember that scar healing is a process that takes time. Patience and consistent care are key to achieving the best possible outcomes.

When to Seek Professional Help

While many scars can be managed at home, there are situations where professional medical advice should be sought. Consider consulting a dermatologist or plastic surgeon if:

  • The scar is painful or itchy
  • The scar is restricting movement
  • There are signs of infection (redness, swelling, warmth)
  • The scar is causing significant emotional distress
  • You’re interested in exploring medical treatments for scar improvement

A healthcare professional can provide personalized advice and treatment options based on your specific situation and needs.

9 Celebrities With Scars

Some famous people with scars wear them proudly, while some refuse to discuss or acknowledge them. Get the stories behind some of the most famous scars in Hollywood, plus tips on how to care for your own scars.

Medically Reviewed

Amanda Edwards/Getty Images; WENN.com; Alberto Reyes/WENN.com

Hollywood is the land of beautiful people, celebrities who are admired for their good, often perfect looks. But you might be surprised to learn which of the biggest stars sport scars — or where those scars came from. Some embrace them and openly share their stories; others say the topic of their scar is off limits. Take a look at nine of the most famous celebrity scars and discover their origin as well as tips for scar management from Jessica Krant, MD, MPH, a board-certified dermatologist, assistant clinical professor of dermatology at SUNY Downstate Medical Center, and founder of Art of Dermatology in Manhattan.

Seal

Amanda Edwards/Getty Images

The Grammy award-winning singer’s voice is unmistakable. But Seal is also known for very characteristic types of scars on his face and scalp, caused by a skin disease called discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE). Seal had the condition as a teenager. “DLE is a disfiguring disease in which the immune cells attack the skin from underneath, creating inflammatory areas and scarring of the scalp, ears, face, and sometimes chest and arms. The scars that form from the disease are permanent, so prevention and early treatment is the best management,” explained Dr. Krant.

J.R. Martinez

Noel Vasquez/Getty Images

Cpl. J.R. Martinez of the 101st Airborne Division was just 19 when he deployed to Iraq in 2003. Less than a month later, a Humvee he was driving hit a landmine and he received burns on more than 40 percent of his body. Today, the actor and Dancing with the Stars champion views his scars as a gift. Between surgeries and therapies to stretch his tender skin, he has visited other wounded veterans — he gave them hope, and they gave him purpose. “Once a burn patient is stabilized, the treatment depends on how large an area has been affected. New skin must be either taken from another area of the body, grown from the patient’s own cells, or applied from an artificial graft,” said Krant.

Tina Fey

Alberto Reyes/WENN.com

When the 30 Rock actress was a small child, a random stranger walked up to the front yard of Fey’s home and slashed the left side of her face, leaving a scar from just below her cheekbone to under her bottom lip. She doesn’t like to publicly discuss the origin of the scar and covers it with makeup so that it is less noticeable. “There is no single, reliable, perfect scar treatment, but depending on the scar, injecting it with corticosteroid to flatten and relax it, using silicone gel sheeting, or occasionally some types of laser may be helpful. Massage and time are also great factors in improving scars,” Krant said.

Padma Lakshmi

Tommaso Boddi/Getty Images

The former model and host of Top Chef has grown rather fond of the thick, seven-inch long scar on the front of her arm — the result of a car accident that occurred when she was 14. Upset about it at first, Lakshmi has said that she now views it as a source of affirmation instead of an ugly mark. “I love it because it makes me a person who has an interesting past,” she said in a People.com interview. “On rare occasion, a scar can be cut out and re-stitched to make a less visible scar after a long time of initial healing, for a thinner, flatter scar,” Krant said.

Harrison Ford

Ray Tamarra/Getty Images

The well-known scar on Ford’s chin has even been written into some of his movies — it was from a whip in Indiana Jones and an ear piercing gone wrong in Working Girl. In real life, Ford earned the scar when he lost control of his car putting on his seatbelt while driving. When a deep cut occurs, you may be able to minimize scarring with fast action. Keep the wound moist with petroleum jelly and out of the sun, and seek a doctor’s advice immediately to see if it’s the type of wound that would benefit from suturing,” Krant said.

Mary J. Blige

Kyle Blair/WENN. com

While Grammy award-winning singer Mary J. Blige has never acknowledged how she got the scar below her left eye, rumors abound that it resulted from a fight she had with another woman. Another story is that the scar is from a traumatic event during childhood that she made a pact to never discuss. In one interview Blige did say, “If I don’t accept the scar on my face, the lips that God gave me, the big giant feet, the long legs, whatever it is that I’m deformed with, I got to love it so everybody else can love it. And I started loving it.”

Joaquin Phoenix

WENN.com

Joaquin Phoenix was born with what looks like a type of scar between his lip and nose. It’s actually a microform cleft, the mildest form of cleft lip. It typically appears as a scar or notch. Cleft lip is a birth defect that develops very early in a pregnancy, before the 10-week mark. About 6,800 babies in the United States are born with some form of cleft lip or cleft palate each year. According to a 2009 study published in the Journal of Craniofacial Surgery, milder versions of cleft lip, such as the type Phoenix has, occur later in the labial formation, when the process is nearly complete.

Kate Middleton

Getty Images

Being thrust into the limelight after marrying Prince William, the Duchess of Cambridge’s looks have been the topic of endless discussion. When a 3-inch long scar was spotted along the left side of her temple, noticeable only because of the way her hair was styled, it became headline news. A spokesman for the Duchess confirmed the scar was the result of a serious surgery Middleton had as a young child, but declined to give further details, stating it was a private matter.

Catherine Zeta-Jones

Jim Spellman/Getty Images

Makeup artists are always looking to cover up the 1½ inch scar on the front of Catherine Zeta-Jones’ neck. It’s the result of the tracheotomy she had to have as an infant after a virus she contracted caused breathing difficulties. “I don’t want to hide it,” she has said. “I wouldn’t be here today if I didn’t have this scar.” With surgery, there is the risk of scarring at the incision. Typically, scars fade over time, but never completely disappear. For people who would rather not have that reminder, options to help minimize their appearance include dermabrasion, injections, chemical peels, creams, and laser treatments. Researchers continue to look for more effective options, said Krant.

TV host Wendy Williams sorry for mocking Joaquin Phoenix’s lip scar

  • Published

Image source, Getty Images

Image caption,

Joaquin Phoenix earned his fourth Oscar nomination for Joker this week

TV host Wendy Williams has apologised after appearing to mock Joaquin Phoenix for a scar on his upper lip.

The US presenter was accused of insulting people with a cleft palate while discussing the star’s appearance.

“When he shaves off his moustache he’s got a hairline fracture. He’s got one of those… what do you call it? Cleft lip, cleft palate,” she said.

She then pulled up her top lip, saying: “I find it to be very attractive,” prompting laughter from the audience.

After facing strong criticism, Williams wrote on Twitter that she wanted to “apologise to the cleft community”.

But the Cleft Lip and Palate Association said: “An apology on Twitter really isn’t enough.”

The association’s spokeswoman Anna Martindale told BBC News: “She did this on her show with millions upon millions of people watching, and I think she needs to apologise on her show as well.”

  • Oscars 2020: Joker leads pack with 11 nominations
  • Wendy Williams reveals addiction struggle
  • Call the Midwife praised for cleft lip story

Williams, whose daytime show is syndicated on different stations around the US, made the original remarks last week while discussing Phoenix’s best actor award at the previous night’s Golden Globe Awards.

Referring to Phoenix’s scar, the host said: “He’s got this, he’s got this,” while hooking her finger under her top lip to expose her teeth and gums.

Ms Martindale said people with the condition would recognise the gesture “as being like the first thing that bullies do”.

Image source, The Wendy Williams Show

Image caption,

The presenter was widely criticised for mimicking the condition, which affects one in every 700 babies born in the UK

She added: “With the sarcasm and the ways in which she was talking about him, it was really clear that she was intending to mock him specifically for that.

“We work really hard to kind of create a very positive space where people can feel empowered and confident about their future about their child’s future.

“No matter how much work we and other organisations like us do, we’ll never have as much impact as 10 seconds on the television from someone with that much of a viewership doing something like that.”

Those criticising Williams included UK TV presenter Carol Vorderman, who is an ambassador for the Cleft Lip and Palate Association. “Mimicking a cleft lip, and making a joke about it, is disgraceful. Have you any idea the pain and operations a child with cleft must go through as they grow?” she wrote on Twitter.

On Wednesday, Williams addressed her apology to Adam Bighill, a player for Winnipeg Blue Bombers of the Canadian Football League. Both he and his son Beau were born with a cleft lip and palate. Four-month-old Beau had surgery on Wednesday.

Bighill had described Williams’ actions as “sickening, and a reminder to many of how they were actually made fun of”. After her apology, he said he forgave the host.

Williams also said her show was making donations to US charities Operation Smile and the American Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Association.

Phoenix has rarely spoken about his condition, but it is thought to be a microform cleft, which is a mild form of cleft lip that looks like a scar.

What is cleft lip and palate?

  • About one in 700 babies are born with a cleft lip and/or palate
  • It occurs when parts of a baby’s face do not join together properly in the womb
  • It can materialise as a gap in the lip and/or roof of the mouth
  • Surgery to close the gap will usually happen before the child is a year old
  • The surgery may leave a scar but most affected children will not have other related serious medical problems

Source: Cleft Lip and Palate Association and NHS

Follow us on Facebook, or on Twitter @BBCNewsEnts. If you have a story suggestion email [email protected].

What’s wrong with Joaquin Phoenix’s lip

Beauty secrets of the stars

The famous American actor can boast of his chosen filmography, Oscar and other prestigious awards. Perhaps, the talent and recognition of the actor to this day has no equal among modern Hollywood. By the way, this closed and slightly unsociable actor really has millions of fans, but Joaquin himself prefers to take his popularity lightly and does not pretend to be an outstanding star.

Photo
Legion Media

However, even without having the appearance of a hand-written handsome man, Phoenix from his very youth was surrounded by female adoration. The girls in love with him were not even embarrassed by the noticeable scar above the actor’s upper lip. This zest, on the contrary, gave the Phoenix a mystery and caused a lot of rumors around its origin. Some believed that the scar was the result of the pugnacity of the actor, who in his youth was indeed a somewhat emotional guy. Others believed that the scar remained after the operation, allegedly, the actor went under the knife of a plastic surgeon.

Photo
Allstar Picture Library Ltd / Alamy/Legion Media

This version is completely far from reality: Joaquin never did plastic surgery, and even more so does not think about it now, at the peak of his fame. In fact, the scar of a Hollywood actor is the result of an intrauterine anomaly. When the future star was in the womb, the fetus had some complications in the form of a cleft palate. However, this did not carry any danger, and the cleft grew together. However, this diagnosis did not affect Joaquin’s health in any way, leaving behind a now barely noticeable scar, which only adds to the actor’s brutality and attractiveness. Phoenix himself does not really like to talk about this topic, not considering it to be something curious. But in one of the interviews, the actor said that his scar is the result of divine intervention and he is not going to get rid of it through plastic surgery.

Photo
Legion Media

If the outstanding actor himself leads a rather peaceful and secluded lifestyle, then his fame and worldwide recognition are clearly not to the liking of many colleagues and media personalities. For example, when Joaquin was announced the winner for the best male role in the drama Joker at the Golden Globe ceremony, the entire audience applauded the actor in appreciation of his extraordinary talent. However, the singer Beyoncé chose to stand out: she did not get up from her chair, thereby expressing her disrespect for the actor. Naturally, a flurry of accusations fell upon the singer from her fans and Phoenix fans, forcing Beyoncé to apologize for what happened.

Photo
Allstar Picture Library Ltd. / Alamy/Legion Media

Another scandal involving the name of Joaquin had a much more deafening resonance. American presenter Wendy Williams supported Beyoncé and walked over Joaquin’s scar in a rude, mocking manner. I must say that the behavior of the presenter was disgusting to look at, and her words provoked criticism from millions of people. Wendy herself tried to apologize, but it turned out even worse: there was no sincerity in her words at all. The actor himself, it seems, these intrigues did not hurt at all. Joaquin acted wisely: he pretended that nothing had happened. However, the way it is, it is unlikely that such a titled and sought-after actor cares about the attempts of colleagues trying to assert themselves at his expense.

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Where does Cheech get a scar on his upper lip?

Cheech and Chong actor Cheech Marin was born with cleft lip and corrected it with surgery.

Similarly, does Joaquin have a cleft? Joaquin Phoenix was born with a scar between his lip and nose. it is actually cleft microform , the mildest form of cleft lip. It usually looks like a scar or notch.

Does Cheech Marin have a hairy lip? marine was born with cleft lip , which has long since been refurbished. He speaks fluent Spanish and uses it in some of the films he stars in. A distinctive feature of Marin is the voice of his character with a Mexican accent. … At birth, he had a cleft palate and a partial cleft lip.

Also, is Joaquin Phoenix married?

Born in Puerto Rico and raised in Los Angeles and Florida, Phoenix began his career by appearing on television in the early 1980s with his brother River.

Joaquin Phoenix
occupation Actor Producer
Active years 1982 present
Jobs Filmography
Partner(s) Rooney Mara (2016–present; engaged)

Why is the cleft lip so called?

Called “hare lip” because it resembles the upper lip of a hare that has a gap between the upper lip and the nose of a rabbit . “Cleft lip” is less serious than “cleft palate” when the palate has not fused.

What happened to Joaquin’s lip? And he and his son Bo were born with cleft lip and palate . … Phoenix has rarely spoken about his condition, but it is believed to be a micro form of cleft lip, a mild form of cleft lip that looks like a scar.

How did Cheech get his name? 1. He was nicknamed after fried pork: Born Richard Anthony Marin, he was nicknamed Cheech as a child because his uncle said he looked like a small chicharrón (fried pork rind). Obviously the name stuck.

What causes Hairlip? Cleft lip and cleft palate are thought to be caused by combination of genes and other factors , such as things the mother comes into contact with in her environment, or what the mother eats or drinks, or certain medications she uses during pregnancy.

Will there be a Joker 2?

After seeing the box office performance of Joker, the producer decided to make Joker 2 if Joaquin Phoenix was interested. Todd Phillips later stated that “the film is not meant to be a sequel. … However, in November 2019, Todd Phillips spoke to IndieWire and said: Joker sequel in development no .

Is cleft lip an insult? The term “cleft lip” is usually taken as offensive because it compares the deformity in humans to the normal cleft lip of a hare. The accepted term for this medical condition is cleft lip .

Which country has the largest cleft palate?

Data were collected from 55 countries. According to the latest data, the highest total CLP rates were registered in Venezuela (38 squares/10,000 births), Iran (10,000 squares/10,000 births) and Japan (38 squares/10,000 births).

How do babies get cleft lip? Causes and risk factors

Cleft lip and cleft palate are thought to be caused by a combination of genes and other factors , such as things the mother comes into contact with in her environment, or what the mother eats or drinks, or certain medications she uses during pregnancy.

How much is Joaquin Phoenix worth?

Joaquin Phoenix Net Worth and Salary: Joaquin Phoenix is ​​an American actor, director, producer and musician who has a net worth of $50 million .

Joaquin Phoenix Net Worth.

Net Worth: $50 million
Height: 5 ft 8 in (1.73 m)
Profession: Actor, Producer, TV producer, Musician, Music video director, Social activist

What disease does Joaquin Phoenix have?

In The Joker, Joaquin Phoenix plays a character with Pseudobulbar affect , a neurological disorder resulting from a traumatic brain injury. In fact, the mentally ill are much less likely to commit violence than the general population, experts say. Some critics fear that the film’s dark themes may inspire mass shootings.

See also

Cheech Marin lost his leg? Finally, however, several hours later, Marin’s leg was surgically amputated above the knee. . … Marin sued the driver who hit him and reinstated his full policy limits of $100,000.

Does Cheech Marin have a higher education? Marin grew up in the Granada Hills, where he developed a reputation for being a cool clown and for gore in his groups of friends. He attended California State University, Northridge, where he majored in English Literature but was eight credits short of his degree to move to Vancouver, Canada and avoid being drafted to Vietnam.

Hereditary cleft palate?

The causes of cleft lip and palate (or both) are unknown, although hereditary (genetic) factors sometimes play a small role. A cleft lip or cleft palate (or both) is not caused by what the parents did or didn’t do during pregnancy.

Why is the cleft palate so common in Asia? “In the past, in some Asian countries, this was due to folic acid deficiency ,” Dr. Prasad said. “Folic acid deficiency can cause an increased risk of neural tube defects, which can increase the risk of cleft palate or craniofacial disorders,” he said.