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Changes in lip 1 year after modified Millard repair.
1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, West China College of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
International Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
|November 21, 2007
Summary
This study on modified Millard cleft lip repair found that early postoperative lip symmetry is a strong predictor of long-term labial symmetry. Primary cleft lip repair is crucial for achieving balanced results one year post-surgery.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Craniofacial Surgery
- Pediatric Surgery
Background:
- Unilateral complete cleft lip presents significant aesthetic and functional challenges.
- Achieving optimal labial symmetry after primary repair is a key surgical goal.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate lip changes one year after modified Millard cleft lip repair.
- To compare preoperative and 1-year postoperative lip appearance and symmetry.
Main Methods:
- Twenty-three patients with unilateral complete cleft lip underwent standardized photography.
- Preoperative, 7-day, and 12-month postoperative images were analyzed.
- Labial symmetry and height on the cleft side were measured and compared to the non-cleft side.
Main Results:
- No significant linear correlation was found between preoperative and 1-year postoperative lip appearance.
- A significant linear correlation existed between lip height at 7 days and 12 months post-surgery.
- Labial symmetry at 1 year was achieved irrespective of initial cleft severity.
Conclusions:
- Primary cleft lip repair is essential for achieving and maintaining labial symmetry.
- Early postoperative symmetry is a reliable indicator of long-term aesthetic outcomes in cleft lip repair.
