Yes, the good news is that clefts are a medical condition that can be treated with reconstructive surgery and patients will see an immediate transformation. However, there are many barriers that children with untreated clefts encounter which may prevent them from receiving the surgery they so desperately need. Lack of information on treatment options, little to no income to cover the cost of surgery, and transportation to treatment centers are just a few of the obstacles. Many communities also face challenges with a lack of equipment and supplies, and a shortage of medical professionals. Smile Train helps address all of these barriers in our local, sustainable cleft programs.