Evaluation of esthetic outcome following bilateral cleft lip repair using the Mulliken technique: An assessment of 284 cases

Abstract

Aim: The aim of the study was to evaluate the esthetic outcome in bilateral cleft lip repairs after using the Mulliken technique using a simplified scale assessed by medical and nonmedical people. Materials and Methods: A total of 284 patients were assessed retrospectively. A three-point scale was devised, and the assessment was carried out on standardized photographs arranged in a presentation format on a screen. The areas assessed were lip, nose, and general facial appearance. Inter-rater reliability was calculated for individual groups and among the groups. Results: The average of the scores of both groups was 2.5 indicating good satisfaction levels. The non medical professionals group gave higher values. The general facial appearance had higher values as compared to the lip and nose assessment. Inter-rater reliability was high. Conclusion: The overall satisfaction levels by both groups were high. Nonmedico group gave higher values, which was considered important as they represent the society that the cleft children interact with. The general facial appearance got high values which shows that individual parts of the face are not scrutinized by individuals. The Mulliken technique of repair gives overall good esthetic results.