Information for Patients
Everything you need to know about specialist dermal filler treatment for adults born with cleft lip.
What Is CleftInject™?
The CleftInject™ technique is a specialist dermal filler procedure designed specifically for adults born with cleft lip. Many adults who had cleft repair surgery as babies still experience asymmetry, scarring, or confidence concerns with their lips. Standard filler practitioners may not have the training or experience to treat cleft lip anatomy safely and effectively.
CleftInject™ was developed by Lindsay Owens, drawing on over 8 years of clinical aesthetics experience and 5 years specialising in lip and reconstructive treatments. Every specialist in our directory has completed the CleftInject™ training programme.
How the Treatment Works
The procedure uses a slightly firmer filler than standard lip treatments, allowing the practitioner to create structure in the lip and manipulate the tissue to improve shape and definition. Filler is placed strategically around scar tissue and in areas that need more structure.
Treatment begins with a detailed consultation where your specialist assesses your cleft anatomy, scarring, and symmetry to create a personalised plan. The procedure itself takes around 30–60 minutes, with topical anaesthetic applied to help with any discomfort.
Treatment Time
30–60 minutes per session
Results
Visible at 4 weeks, lasting 9–18 months
Who Is It For?
- Adults aged 18 and over
- Both bilateral and unilateral cleft lip
- All patients must have had their cleft surgically repaired as a baby to be treated with filler as an adult
What to Expect
Results focus on improving symmetry, contour, and balance rather than simply adding volume. The goal is natural-looking changes that respect your existing anatomy. Swelling and tenderness for a few days after treatment is normal, with final results typically visible at around 4 weeks.
Depending on your individual needs, your specialist may recommend one treatment with top-ups every 6–12 months, or up to 3 sessions spaced 2–3 months apart to achieve the desired result.
Why See a Cleft Specialist?
Cleft lips are not covered in standard aesthetic training, and the injection technique is entirely different from what is taught on a typical filler course. A standard practitioner may not understand the unique anatomy, scar tissue behaviour, or the specific approach needed for safe, effective results.
Every specialist in the CleftInject™ directory has completed dedicated training and gained hands-on experience with cleft lip patients. This means you can be confident that your practitioner genuinely understands your anatomy and how to work with it.
Cost
Costs vary by practitioner and complexity, but cleft-specific lip treatments typically range between approximately £250 and £600 per session. Each specialist sets their own fees, and some practitioners offer free treatment. Contact your chosen specialist directly for accurate pricing.
Safety & Side Effects
Common temporary effects include swelling, bruising, tenderness, and short-term asymmetry while the filler settles. As with any filler treatment, there are rare risks such as allergic reaction and vascular occlusion. This is why treatment should only be performed by appropriately trained practitioners experienced in cleft anatomy.
The information on this page is educational only and does not replace a consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. Individual results vary and are subject to practitioner assessment.
Ready to Find a Specialist?
Search our directory of verified CleftInject™ practitioners near you.