How Can I Correct Lip Asymmetry?

Lip asymmetry is a condition that can cause aesthetic concerns and can be corrected with surgical methods. In the treatment of this condition, cheiloplasty procedures, commonly known as lip lifts, are often preferred. The bullhorn lip lift technique shortens the distance between the nose and the upper lip to increase symmetry, while the corner lift procedure, which elevates the corners of the mouth, also supports the harmony of facial contours. These interventions are performed to make the lips appear more balanced and symmetrical. Innovations in this field of aesthetic surgery help enhance facial harmony, providing a more aesthetic appearance.

What Causes Lip Asymmetry?

Lip asymmetry can arise for a variety of reasons. Both congenital factors and environmental influences can contribute to this condition. Below are the main causes that may lead to lip asymmetry:

• Genetic factors
• Developmental disorders
• Nerve injuries
• Facial traumas
• Dental alignment issues
• Signs of aging
• Poor lifestyle habits
• Health problems

Lip asymmetry can affect an individual’s aesthetic appearance and, in some cases, make speaking or chewing more difficult. Conditions that affect the facial nerves or muscles may particularly limit lip movements. A specialist evaluation is essential for treatment.

When Should You Consider Surgical Correction for Lip Asymmetry?

Surgical intervention may be necessary when lip asymmetry causes significant aesthetic or functional problems. Surgical correction is chosen in cases that seriously affect speech, chewing, or the harmony of facial contours.

Functional Difficulties:

• Difficulty speaking
• Trouble chewing
• Problems with closing the mouth

Aesthetic Concerns:

• Pronounced facial asymmetry
• Desire for a symmetrical and balanced appearance

Congenital Conditions:

• Cleft lip
• Ascher syndrome

Trauma and Developmental Anomalies:

• Asymmetry following injury
• Hemifacial microsomia

When planning a surgical intervention, the patient’s individual needs, overall health status, and aesthetic goals are taken into account. Comprehensive evaluations by a specialized team make the treatment process more effective and safer.

Which Surgical Procedures Are Available to Correct Lip Asymmetry?

Lip asymmetry can be corrected using various surgical techniques. The chosen procedures depend on the patient’s needs, and each method offers different advantages. Here are some of the surgical methods used for this purpose:

Cheiloplasty (Lip Aesthetic Surgery):

• Bullhorn Lip Lift
• Corner of the Mouth Lift
• V-Y Plasty
• Paris Lip Technique
• Kesselring Technique
• Lip Reduction Surgery:
• Removal of excess tissue
• Making an incision on the inside of the lip

Lipofilling (Fat Transfer):

• Injecting fat taken from the body into the lips
• Botulinum Toxin Injections:
• Relaxing overactive muscles

Lip Lift Procedures:

• Subnasal Bullhorn Lip Lift
• Corner of the Mouth Lift

These procedures can eliminate lip asymmetry and bring more balance to the facial contours. Each surgical method is designed not only to improve the aesthetic appearance but also to preserve the individual’s natural expressions. The treatment plan is determined by considering the patient’s aesthetic goals, lip structure, and facial proportions.

How Is Cheiloplasty Performed to Correct Lip Asymmetry?

Cheiloplasty to correct lip asymmetry is applied using different techniques tailored to the individual. The choice of method depends on the type and severity of the lip asymmetry. Surgical procedures that shape, balance, and harmonize lip tissue with the facial contours are preferred to achieve an aesthetic look. Below are some of these techniques:

V-Y Advancement Technique:

• Preferred in cases of vertical deficiency and loss of fullness.
• A V-shaped incision is made on the lip, advanced forward, and closed as a Y.

Z-Plasty:

• Used to remove scar tissue.
• Two triangular flaps are created in a Z shape, and their directions are swapped.

Wedge Excision:

• Used for removing excess tissue.
• A V-shaped tissue is excised, and the remaining edges are sutured together.

Bullhorn Lip Lift:

• Shortens the distance between the nose and the upper lip.
• An incision is made under the nose, and the tissue is sutured upward.

Corner of the Mouth Lift:

• Applied when the corners of the mouth droop downward.
• A small triangular piece of tissue is excised, and the corner is lifted upward.

During cheiloplasty, not only are superficial corrections made, but muscles and tissues can also be realigned. For instance, properly aligning the orbicularis oris muscle improves both lip function and aesthetics. Irregularities in the vermillion border are also corrected, increasing the clarity of the lip line. Such procedures help the lips achieve a more youthful and symmetrical appearance.

In the postoperative period, minimizing scarring and speeding up recovery are crucial. Regular follow-up, the use of silicone-based products, and proper hygiene measures help prevent potential complications.

What Are the Risks and Benefits of Surgical Correction for Lip Asymmetry?

Lip asymmetry can lead to both aesthetic and functional issues, and surgical interventions offer an effective solution to correct this condition. There are notable benefits as well as some risks associated with the procedure.

Benefits:

• More balanced facial contours
• Long-lasting results
• Improvement in speech and eating functions
• Increased self-confidence

Surgical interventions not only correct the aesthetic appearance of the lips but also have a positive impact on an individual’s social and emotional life. Compared to temporary applications, providing a long-term solution is a significant advantage.

Risks:

• Visible scars
• Risk of infection
• Formation of new asymmetry
• Temporary or permanent loss of sensation
• Unexpected outcomes

As with any surgical procedure, there are certain risks involved in lip correction operations. Choosing an experienced surgeon and complying with the recovery process can minimize these risks.

Before making a decision to undergo surgery, it is crucial to create a plan that fits the individual’s needs. Factors such as the patient’s medical history, skin structure, and overall health status play a key role in the success of the procedure.

What Is the Recovery Process Like After Lip Asymmetry Surgery?

The recovery process after lip asymmetry surgery occurs in several stages, and there are important points to pay attention to during each phase. Adhering to the doctor’s advice is essential for a healthy recovery:

• Swelling and bruising increase during the first few days.
• Applying cold compresses is recommended.
• Mild pain is controlled with prescribed pain medications.
• Rest is important, and heavy activities should be avoided.

Throughout the first week, sutures should be regularly checked and cared for. Soft foods are recommended, avoiding hard or acidic items. If sutures are not self-dissolving, they are removed under medical supervision. Paying attention to oral hygiene and using products recommended by the doctor are crucial:

• Sutures are checked by the doctor.
• Choose soft, non-irritating foods.
• Be mindful of oral hygiene.

By the second week of healing, swelling and bruising start to subside. Light physical activities may be resumed, but strenuous exercise should be avoided. Doctor-recommended creams or methods can be used to care for incision scars:

• Swelling diminishes.
• Light activities can be done.
• Start massaging the scar areas.

In the long term, the lips fully heal and the final results of the surgery become apparent. Temporary numbness or sensory changes may occur in the lips. It is important to avoid smoking and alcohol during this period, as they can negatively affect the recovery process:

• Final results are seen around 6 months.
• Numbness subsides over time.
• Smoking and alcohol slow down healing.

Protecting yourself from sunlight by using sunscreen or wearing a hat is also beneficial during the recovery period.

References

1. Pearson, D. C., & Pearson, T. J. (1999). Symmetry analysis of the face: A review. Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, 23(1), 19-24.
2. Neumann, M., & Rosenberger, J. L. (2017). Lip augmentation and correction of lip asymmetry using hyaluronic acid fillers. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 16(1), 43-50.
3. Wang, M. Y., Fabi, S. G., & Goldman, M. P. (2016). Anatomy and techniques for treating lip asymmetry. Dermatologic Surgery, 42(Suppl 1), S106-S113.
4. Hartmann, D. (2013). The surgical correction of cleft lip asymmetry. Seminars in Plastic Surgery, 27(3), 134-140.

Dr. Erman Ak

Op. Dr. Erman Ak graduated from Ankara Hacettepe Tıp in 2014 and completed his specialization at Istanbul University Çapa Medical Faculty. He received advanced microsurgery training in Taiwan and, as an ISAPS fellow in Italy, training in facial and breast aesthetics. Dr. Ak holds the European Union Aesthetic Plastic Surgery qualification certificate from EBOPRAS and contributed to the establishment of the Plastic Surgery Department at Başakşehir Çam and Sakura Hospital. He currently accepts patients from Turkey and various other countries at his clinic in Nişantaşı.