Social Media, Self-Image, and Stigma in Cleft Lip and/or Palate: A Narrative Review
Ruby Abu Nassar, Fayiz Madanat, Mahdi Abdul Baqi, Pablo Leon Armijos, Abdallah Herzallah, Hiba Aljaberi, Ahmad Ghanameh, Mira Khaldoun EidObjective
Cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P) are common congenital craniofacial anomalies associated with functional and psychosocial challenges. As social media platforms continue to expand, they increasingly influence perceptions of facial appearance, stigma, and social support among individuals with CL/P.
Design
Literature review and narrative synthesis of studies examine social media use and psychosocial experiences among individuals with CL/P and their families. A literature search was conducted across PubMed, Medline, Cochrane, Clarivate Web of Science, and ScienceDirect for studies published between January 2015 and October 2025. Studies examining social media use among individuals with CL/P, caregivers, or families were included. Eligible articles explored psychosocial experiences related to platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Facebook, Snapchat, and online support communities. Risk of bias was evaluated using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool.
Main Outcome Measure
The impact of social media on self-awareness, stigma, and psychosocial experiences among individuals with CL/P and their families.
Results
After screening and eligibility assessment, 55 studies were included in the final synthesis. Social media was found to have both beneficial and detrimental effects. Appearance-focused platforms may contribute to social comparison, body image concerns, and experiences of stigma, particularly among adolescents. Online communities and support groups provide opportunities for peer support, information sharing, and advocacy, helping reduce isolation and improve coping among patients and families.
Conclusion
While certain platforms may exacerbate stigma and body image concerns, online support networks offer meaningful opportunities for connection, education, and empowerment.