An obturator is a custom-made plate designed to close a gap between the roof of the mouth (palate) and the nasal cavity. Its primary function is to stop food and drink from entering the nasal passage.
For moms of babies born with cleft conditions, breastfeeding may be a challenge. Owing to structural abnormalities in the lip or mouth, infants born with a cleft lip or palate may not be able to latch onto the breast to create a seal.
In 2022, Dan Meyer cycled 3500 kilometers through Europe, from Copenhagen to Rome to raise funds for Operation Smile. A year later, he cycled down the west coast of America from Canada to Mexico.
Even though there is a history of cleft palate in their family, when little Seipati was born, his parents didn’t realise he was affected.
In the sixteen years since Operation Smile South Africa was established, we’ve gathered together a team of 120 active volunteers. These selfless people from all walks of life are the foundation of our work.