Development of the Face and Palate
The face and palate are formed by the fusion of five facial prominences derived from the neural crest (1st pharyngeal arch and frontonasal prominence).
| Prominence | Adult Structure |
|---|---|
| Frontonasal | Forehead, bridge of nose, philtrum, primary palate. |
| Maxillary | Cheeks, lateral upper lip, secondary palate. |
| Mandibular | Lower lip, chin, mandible. |
High-Yield Developmental Milestones:
- Cleft Lip: Failure of fusion of the maxillary and medial nasal prominences.
- Cleft Palate: Failure of fusion of the two palatine shelves (from maxillary prominences) or the palatine shelves with the primary palate.
- Timing: Facial development occurs primarily between weeks 4 and 10 of gestation.