Cleft-Craniofacial Center
Welcome to the Cleft Craniofacial Center at UI Health. We are the oldest, most comprehensive clinical care and research center in the United States. Founded in 1949, for 75 years, we have provided world-class care for children and adults with cleft deformities. We will be celebrating our diamond anniversary. We welcome our patients and care providers to attend the festivities throughout the year.
Our center is a children-friendly, state-of-the-art facility where all necessary practitioners provide multidisciplinary care to our patients under one roof.
We are certified by the American Cleft Palate Craniofacial Association (ACPA). This means that we provide care in a coordinated and consistent manner and follow the proper timeline within the framework of the patient's overall development.
We are gratefully supported by the philanthropic organization Face the Future Foundation so that all children can receive the necessary care they deserve.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please call 312.996.7546.
Why you should come to the CFC
Dr. Patel describes the role of a surgeon and the impact that Cleft Craniofacial Center team members have on the treatment of a patient. While the surgeon can address what is physically seen, the rest of our team from the psychologist to the speech therapist, nurses, etc. help build the internal strength in the patient. The Cleft Craniofacial Center team is what differentiates us.
Our Mission
- State-of-the-art team-centered cleft and craniofacial patient care
- Research that advances clinical care
- Educating the next generation of surgeons and related professionals
- Advocacy for all patients to lead healthy, normal lives