Cleft lip repair is a surgical procedure aimed at correcting a cleft lip, a condition where the upper lip does not fully form during fetal development. This surgery is typically performed when the child is between 3 to 6 months old. The procedure involves closing the gap in the lip, allowing for improved appearance and function, such as better feeding and speech development. During the surgery, a plastic surgeon carefully brings the edges of the cleft together and stitches them to create a more normal lip shape. Recovery usually involves some swelling and discomfort, but most children heal well and can return to normal activities within a few weeks.