Abstract
Aims and Background
This study discusses the surgical technique and the ideal candidates for lip reduction
as well as highlights the low-risk, yet efficacious nature of this in-office procedure.
Historical Aspects
Lip augmentation procedures such as hyaluronic acid fillers and lip lift surgery are
the most common cosmetic lip treatments; however, lip reduction is growing in popularity.
Anatomy
The lips are highly vascularized and sensitive tissue supplied by the superior and
inferior labial arteries and innervated by the trigeminal nerve.
Patient Selection
Patients may be ideal candidates for lip reduction surgery if they possess a large
upper and/or lower lip and desire decreased lip volume and projection.
Techniques
The senior author's surgical technique entails marking an elliptical incision along
the wet–dry border, excising the mucosal tissue en bloc, and closing the wounds following
the rule of halves.
Postoperative Care
Patients are instructed to follow a soft diet for 1 week and activity restrictions
for 2 weeks as well as to frequently apply Aquaphor or Vaseline to the wounds.
Conclusion and Clinical Relevance
Lip reduction surgery is a cosmetic procedure intended to decrease lip size and projection.
Lip reduction is a safe and relatively quick in-office procedure that is associated
with minimal downtime.
Keywords
lips - lip reduction - reduction cheiloplasty - cheiloplasty - lip surgery
