Comparative Analysis in Social Development of Children with Cleft Lip Nasal Deformity According to Timing of Correction: School Age and Preschool Age

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Correction of cleft lip nasal deformity has been performed from March, 1995 to June, 2006 at Donga-A University. The goal of this study is to evaluate children's psychosocial development and to determine the optimal timing of repair. METHODS: This is the retrospective study of patients operated at pre-school and school age. The patients could be divided into two groups, corrected at pre-school age(n=30), and school age(n=30). To evaluate the social development, we used 4 parameters, Children individualism-collectivism scale, Pictorial scale perceived competence social acceptance for young children, Matson's children social adaptability scale, Academic performance rating scale. RESULTS: Operated group at pre-school age had better social adaptation, social acceptance, self-image, self- esteem and academic performance than operated group at school age. CONCLUSION: It is better that correction of secondary lip nasal deformity at pre-school age than at school age in social development.