A new technique for one-stage total lower lip reconstruction: Achieving the perfect balance

Reconstruction of extensive lower lip defects is difficult. The authors describe a new technique of one-stage total lower lip reconstruction, with the ultimate goal being achievement of the delicate balance between adequate mouth opening and competent mouth closure, with satisfactory aesthetic outcome.

The authors applied their new reconstructive technique in a patient with extensive lower lip defect following excision of squamous cell carcinoma. Bilateral inferiorly based nasolabial flaps were used for reconstruction of lower lip. For vermillion reconstruction, a bucket-handle mucomuscular flap from upper lip was designed primarily using the pars marginalis portion of orbicularis oris. Compared with previously described techniques, this procedure is unique with respect to the alignment of the nasolabial flaps in relation to one another. Furthermore, this technique of vermillion reconstruction is a one-stage procedure with minimal morbidity, enables preservation of the vascular pedicle and innervation and maintains the orientation of orbicularis oris, thus providing a competent oral sphincter. To the authors' knowledge, this mucomuscular upper lip flap has not been described earlier and has definite advantages over the commonly used methods of vermillion reconstruction.

The functional and aesthetic outcomes are satisfactory on follow-up, with normal lip movements and sensation, adequate mouth opening and oral competence, good colour and texture match with adjacent tissues, and excellent volume and quality of the vermillion. No subsequent corrective surgery is required.

This technique is simple and achieves the main goals of total lower lip reconstruction in a single stage with minimal morbidity.