The Upper Lip Partial Subunit Superiorly Based Orbicularis Oris Sling Flap to Repair Upper Cutaneous Lip Defects

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Reconstructive Surgery
• Aesthetic Medicine

Background:

• Traditional V-Y advancement flaps for upper lip defects can result in lip fullness and visible oblique scars.
• The superiorly based orbicularis oris sling flap presents a novel modification for upper lip reconstruction.
• This technique aims to minimize lip fullness and conceal scars within cosmetic subunit junctions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To detail the surgical technique of the upper lip partial subunit superiorly based orbicularis oris sling flap.
• To evaluate the aesthetic results and patient outcomes for upper cutaneous lip defects repaired with this flap.
• To assess scar appearance and lip symmetry post-reconstruction.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective case series of patients undergoing reconstruction for lateral upper cutaneous lip defects.
• Inclusion of consecutive cases from 2006 to 2021.
• Assessment of lip symmetry and scar appearance by three independent observers using the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS).

Main Results:

• Fifty-two patients were included in the study.
• Favorable scar appearance was noted, with an average composite POSAS score of 6.9.
• Excellent or good lip symmetry was reported in over 94% of patients.
• Surgical scar revision was infrequently required.

Conclusions:

• The upper lip partial subunit superiorly based orbicularis oris sling flap is an effective method for reconstructing upper cutaneous lip defects.
• This technique successfully reduces lip fullness and conceals scars along cosmetic subunit junctions.
• The flap offers favorable aesthetic outcomes, including good lip symmetry and scar appearance.