3D/4D Scans

Thanks to recent advances in ultrasound technology, many NHS hospitals and Cleft Teams can now offer 3D or 4D scans to parents following an antenatal diagnosis of cleft lip. Once you’ve been referred to your Cleft Team, ask whether this is something they can provide. 

If this service isn’t available locally, some private ultrasound centres across the UK offer free or discounted 3D/4D scans for families expecting a baby with a cleft. Please note that these scans are provided voluntarily by private centres and are not authorised by, or affiliated with, CLAPA or the NHS. Availability varies by location, and unfortunately, not all areas are covered. 

What is a 3D/4D Scan? 

3D and 4D scans provide more detail than the standard 2D ultrasound you’ll have had when the cleft was first diagnosed. They can help parents visualise their baby’s features and may bring comfort or reassurance after receiving a diagnosis. 

“We went for a 4d scan at this is my: health screening and ultrasound centre, at the end of May, the scan was very special to us as our baby has cleft. The centre was recommended to us by the cleft team. This was a chance for us to see the extent of the bilateral cleft and asses the palate to see if there was one visible, we had great support from our local hospital and we was a little nervous to go private but the staff at This is My were fantastic and made us feel very comfortable and explained everything they were looking at. THANK YOU SO MUCH.” 

– Shaneen 

3D vs 4D: What’s the Difference? 

• 3D scans produce detailed still images. 

• 4D scans show moving images of your baby in real time, which may be available as a recording (often at an additional cost). 

Images are typically in a warm sepia tone, which helps the sonographer capture clearer pictures. 

Please note that 3D/4D scans can sometimes reveal different details or angles compared to standard 2D scans. This might lead to variations in what is seen or discussed. If you have any questions or concerns after your scan, contact your Cleft Team for advice and clarification. 

Accessing Free or Discounted Scans 

• Ask your Cleft Team whether a 3D/4D scan can be arranged at your local hospital. 

• Your Cleft Team may also be able to refer you to a private ultrasound centre offering this service. 

• Alternatively, you can contact private centres directly to ask if they provide free or reduced-cost scans for families with a cleft diagnosis. Because these offers are made voluntarily by individual clinics, availability and eligibility vary across the UK. 

Things to Consider When Booking a Private 3D/4D Scan 

If you choose to have a private scan, it’s important to make an informed decision. Keep the following in mind: 

• Regulation and Standards
  Private scanning companies are regulated differently from NHS services, and the quality of care can vary. 

• Experience and Expertise
  Ask whether the sonographer has experience scanning babies with a known cleft diagnosis. 

• Purpose of the Scan
  Think about what you hope to gain — reassurance, bonding, or a clearer understanding of your baby’s condition. These scans are not diagnostic and don’t replace medical scans or advice from your clinical team. 

• Emotional Impact
  Clefts may appear more prominent in 3D/4D images than they will after birth. It’s okay to decline images or videos if they cause distress. 

• Cost and Pressure to Purchase
  You should never feel pressured to buy scan packages or recordings. Only purchase what you feel comfortable with. 

• Communication with Your Care Team
  Let your cleft or maternity team know if you have a private scan — they can help interpret the images and answer questions. 

• Privacy and Data Use
  Check how your images and personal data will be stored, shared, or used by the provider.