After cleft lip repair, which feeding instruction is appropriate?

• A. Feed with standard bottle nipple.
• B. Feed with Breck feeder and rinse mouth.
• C. Spoon-feeding small amounts only.
• D. Wait until crying subsides before feeding.

Answer: (B)

The main idea is to protect the repaired lip by minimizing forces on the incision during feeding and keeping the mouth clean to support healing. A standard bottle nipple requires suction, which can pull on the upper lip and risk pulling apart sutures after cleft lip repair. The Breck feeder delivers formula with little to no suction, using a gentler flow that prevents stress on the repair site while still giving the infant adequate nutrition. After feeding, rinsing the mouth helps remove residual formula and reduces bacterial buildup, lowering the risk of infection and crusting around the healing incision. Other options don’t address the suction issue as effectively, and delaying feeding or using methods that still require suction could compromise healing and hydration.