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Medical Professional's Help Line: (213) 742-1000
Hours: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Monday-Friday
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Open Monday - Friday, 8 AM - 4 PM
Walk-ins welcome.No appointment needed. Save your spot online to reduce wait time.
For emergencies, call 911 and go to the ER.
Over 20 yearstreating young athletes!
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Located in theheart of Los Angeles
The Luskin Orthopaedic Institute for Children (LuskinOIC) Craniofacial and Cleft Palate program employs a top-tier multidisciplinary team, recognized by the American Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Association. Working closely with your child’s pediatrician, our goal is to develop a treatment plan using the latest information and state-of-the-art technology for optimal outcomes over the required twenty-year period.
A cleft lip occurs when the parts of the upper lip do not grow together during development of the baby before it is born. The result is a separation in the upper lip or an opening in the roof of the mouth
At this time, the cause of cleft lip and palate cannot usually be identified. Clefts occur very early in pregnancy and may be the result of a combination of the baby’s genetic information and the environment in which the baby is developing. Cleft lip may be seen on an ultrasound as early as the 16th week of pregnancy, but also may not be diagnosed until after the baby is born.
Children who are born with only a small separation of the back part of the palate may not be diagnosed immediately at birth. Instead, the cleft may only be identified if the child experiences difficulties with feeding, chronic ear infections, or abnormal speech.
Cleft lip and palate are the most common birth defects, occurring in 1 out of every 700 children born alive in the United States, but these problems are completely correctable with surgical repairs.
If untreated, the child will have obvious facial deformities, severe speech and language impairments, chronic dental disease, hearing loss because of ear disease, malnutrition and low self-esteem. Fortunately, with long-term treatment, children can experience no lasting problems.
At LuskinOIC, we offer world-class treatment recognized by the American Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Association. Our multidisciplinary team of expert providers create a personalized treatment plan for your child.
The Craniofacial/Cleft Palate Program at LuskinOIC is also unique in offering treatment to Adult patients with Cleft Lip and Palate.
Whether you’re a parent looking for the right care for your child or a patient with questions, you can find contact information for doctors, departments, and support services.
Medical Professional's Help Line:(213) 741-8325
Fax Referrals:(213) 741-8338
Hours:8:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Monday-Friday
The Craniofacial and Cleft Palate program at LuskinOIC utilizes a coordinated team of multidisciplinary providers, the Gold Standard within this field of medicine. Recognized by the American Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Association, our team works closely with the child’s pediatrician and family to provide the required level of care. Using the latest information and state-of-the-art technology, our goal is to develop a treatment plan that provides optimal outcomes over the twenty-year period treatment.
Your generosity fuels life-changing care at LuskinOIC, helping us treat over 60,000 children each year – regardless of their circumstances. Join us in making a real difference, because every child deserves a healthy future.
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Knowing When to Seek Care for Your Child: A Guide from LuskinOIC
As a parent, your top priority is keeping your child safe and healthy. But when your child is sick or injured, it can be hard to know what level of care they need. Should you call your pediatrician, visit urgent care, or head straight to the emergency department?
For non-emergencies, your child’s pediatrician or a pediatric urgent care center is often the best place to start. If your child’s doctor isn’t available—such as during evenings or weekends—urgent care can provide fast, effective treatment. Contact your pediatrician or visit urgent care if your child has:
You may also have access to virtual urgent care for non-emergency issues, allowing your child to be seen by a provider from home. Check if pediatric virtual urgent care services are available in your area.
If your child is seriously injured or ill—especially if the condition may be life-threatening or needs immediate attention—take them to the emergency department (ED). Seek emergency care if your child:
Your child’s health matters. When in doubt, trust your instincts—and don’t hesitate to seek care. LuskinOIC is here to support your family with trusted pediatric expertise every step of the way.