Dermal fillers are increasingly being sought by individuals with scarring from cleft lip and palate surgery, with many reporting a significant boost in self-confidence. However, experts are raising concerns about the potential for exploitation due to the largely unregulated nature of the aesthetics industry.
Women born with cleft lips, who have often undergone multiple surgeries and therapies from childhood, are finding that cosmetic fillers can help address lingering insecurities about their appearance. For some, like Eleanor Dorgan, who was born with a cleft lip and experienced speech difficulties and bullying, the fillers have been life-changing. Dorgan, who receives free dermal filler for life through a program at Morriston Hospital in Swansea, said the treatment has made her feel "confident in myself a little bit more." She believes it should be accessible to everyone with a cleft lip, stating, "Before [filler] I was really shy, I wouldn't talk to anyone, I didn't want to leave the house."
Summer Rose-Dorland, an aesthetic practitioner who runs a clinic in Somerset and offers pop-up clinics in Wales, works with the non-profit organization CleftInject. This organization connects adults with cleft lip scarring to practitioners familiar with the condition. Rose-Dorland mentioned that some practitioners associated with CleftInject offer many treatments free of charge, particularly for first-time clients. She noted that many clients feel self-conscious about their scars, sometimes altering how they position themselves in photos or during conversations. While some opt for aesthetic practitioners over the NHS for perceived greater choice in outcomes, practitioners like Rose-Dorland acknowledge the need for industry regulation.
Dr. Neil Brierley, a consultant cleft and plastic surgeon, emphasized the importance of engaging with NHS teams for lifelong support and care. He cautioned that fillers could impact future surgical options and advised individuals to inform their cleft team if they pursue aesthetic treatments. Brierley also highlighted the concern surrounding the lack of regulation in the injectables field, noting that while many practitioners are excellent, it's difficult to ascertain who follows best practices. He stated, "There will be many excellent practitioners out there, but it will be impossible to know in advance if there is someone who isn't following best practice."
Dr. Nicola Stock, an associate professor researching the psychological impact of appearance-altering conditions, noted that adults with cleft lips often retain concerns about their appearance post-surgery. Her research suggests a growing interest in aesthetic treatments, fueled by social media marketing. Stock expressed worry that adults with cleft lips, who have complex medical histories, might be "deliberately targeted" and left vulnerable to harm. She recommends thorough research and consultation with NHS cleft teams or charities like the Cleft Lip and Palate Action charity before considering dermal filler treatments.