Palatoplasty is a surgical procedure aimed at repairing a cleft palate, a condition where the roof of the mouth does not fully close during development. This surgery helps improve the function of the mouth, allowing for better speech and eating. It is typically performed on infants or young children, but can also be done in older patients if necessary. During the procedure, a surgeon will reposition the tissues in the palate to create a more normal structure. The operation usually takes a few hours and may require a hospital stay. Recovery involves monitoring for any complications and ensuring proper healing of the surgical site.