Craniofacial Genetics Clinic

What is the Craniofacial Genetics Clinic?

At the Craniofacial Genetics Clinic, you can learn more about possible genetic causes of health conditions such as cleft lip and cleft palate, craniosynostosis and other facial differences.

• Some craniofacial conditions are caused by a change (variant) in a single gene. Other times, a condition happens because of a change in a chromosome (the structures in our cells that hold the genes).
• Sometimes a child inherits a gene variant from 1 or both parents. Other times, a new genetic change causes a condition.
• In some conditions, both genetic and environmental factors play a role.
• Sometimes the cause is not known.

Knowing more about possible genetic causes of your child’s condition may guide you in making decisions about your child’s medical care or your future pregnancies.

Our goal is to help you make informed medical and personal decisions that are right for you and your family.

Who can benefit from genetic counseling?

• Parents of a child with a single facial difference, such as cleft lip or palate. We explain the chance of having another child with the same condition.
• Parents of a child with more than 1 facial difference or health problem. We work to diagnose the condition that is causing the differences. After a diagnosis is found, we give you information on your child’s condition and help you find resources in your community.
• Parents of a child with a known genetic condition. We expect to learn more about genetic conditions over time, so we can update you with any new information. We also talk about how a genetic condition might be passed on in the family and different reproductive options.
• Young adults with a facial difference or a known genetic condition. We recommend young adults have genetic counseling before age 21 to find out what is known about the chance their future children may have the same facial difference and consider options for future family planning.
• Any patient or family who chooses to have genetic testing. We explain the pros and cons of genetic testing and explain test results.

Research to Improve Care

New information about genetics is being discovered all the time. To give you the most up-to-date information on risk factors and tests, we stay on top of the latest research. We also partner with researchers in Craniofacial Medicine and Genetic Medicine at the University of Washington School of Medicine and can sometimes connect interested families with researchers studying craniofacial conditions.

Do I need a referral?

You may make an appointment on your own or ask your doctor to refer you. Call 206-987-2208.

Contact Us

Contact the Craniofacial Center at 206-987-2208 for an appointment, a second opinion or more information.

If you live outside of Washington, Alaska, Montana and Idaho, please contact our coordinator for out-of-area patients at 206-987-0814.

Providers, see how to refer a patient.