early secondary alveolar bone grafting and lip revision in mixed dentition: a case report

Cleft defects are prevalent oromaxillofacial deformities, and surgical correction is essential for restoring oral function, improving speech, and enhancing facial aesthetics, thereby alleviating the social and communicative challenges experienced by affected children. a 7-year-old boy with a left cleft lip and palate received secondary alveolar bone grafting (sabg) using autologous iliac crest bone, plus a secondary lip revision after brief preoperative maxillary expansion. during follow-up, the oro-nasal gap was closed, speech was less hypernasal, and facial balance improved. combining surgical, orthodontic, and restorative care helped address functional deficits and social concerns, which are outcomes after early secondary grafting in mixed dentition. however, close multidisciplinary coordination and setting realistic expectations remain crucial.