A Hybrid Surgical Technique for Bilateral Cleft Lip Reconstruction

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Craniofacial Surgery
• Pediatric Surgery

Background:

• Bilateral cleft lip (BCL) treatment is complex due to muscle discontinuity, nasal deformities, and prolabium characteristics.
• Existing methods like Millard and Manchester techniques have limitations, including philtral widening or lip shortening.
• Surgeons continually seek modifications to enhance outcomes in BCL repair.

Purpose of the Study:

• Introduce and detail the novel "Low technique" for bilateral cleft lip repair.
• Highlight the advantages of the Low technique in improving aesthetic and functional results.
• Address limitations of traditional BCL repair methods.

Main Methods:

• Description of the "Low technique," a hybrid surgical approach for bilateral cleft lip.
• Focus on tissue preservation to prevent lip shortening.
• Strategic incision placement to correct philtral widening.

Main Results:

• The Low technique aims to minimize the need for secondary corrective surgeries.
• Anticipated improvements in lip length and philtral width.
• Enhanced aesthetic and functional outcomes compared to traditional methods.

Conclusions:

• The Low technique presents a promising advancement in bilateral cleft lip repair.
• This hybrid method offers a solution to the limitations of established surgical procedures.
• Further evaluation is warranted to confirm long-term benefits in BCL treatment.