The Cronin & Brauer Cleft Cleft Lip and Palate Clinic was founded to help offer the finest in comprehensive care for patients with congenital cranial and facial anomalies. The fourth most common birth defect, cleft lip or palate indicates a separation of parts of the lip and/or roof of the mouth. Reconstructive surgery repairs this separation and thus enhances the patient’s appearance, facilitates normal speech and ensures normal breathing and chewing.

The clinic’s success depends on an experienced, multidisciplinary team that serves each patient’s diverse needs. Providers in the fields of plastic surgery, speech pathology, otolaryngology, orthodontia, social and nutritional services, collaborate and coordinate to best achieve the physical health of the patient.

Additional consultations are available in an array of specialties that support the Cronin & Brauer team.

A Ministry to South and Central America

In addition to the service the clinic renders to Texans, volunteers from Cronin & Brauer provide free medical care and education in South and Central America.

Since 1983, a dedicated team led by Ernest Cronin, M.D., has made annual trips south of the border as part of “Operation San José.” The project serves a threefold purpose. First, it provides medical and surgical intervention for children suffering from cleft lip and palate deformities. Second, it encourages an international exchange of medical information, giving medical staff in developing countries the opportunity to learn advanced medical techniques.

Finally, Operation San José provides experience for plastic surgeons in training. The plastic surgery residents refine their skills in facial reconstruction techniques under the direct supervision of an experienced faculty member.

Each trip is made at the invitation of the host country and serves also to increase international good will.