Lip Repositioning Techniques and Modifications

Dent Clin North Am. 2022 Jul;66(3):373-384. doi: 10.1016/j.cden.2022.02.002. Epub 2022 Jun 1.

Abstract

A common etiology of excessive gingival display is hypermobile upper lip, which can be managed by non-surgical and surgical approaches. Among the surgical options, lip repositioning surgery is a relatively simple procedure with minimal complications. Since the original description of the technique almost 50 years ago, several minor and major modifications have been introduced. The available evidence indicates that, when applied to properly diagnosed cases, the technique is effective in reducing gingival display and results in improved smile esthetics and high patient satisfaction. This article reviews the various techniques and modifications and summarizes the reported outcomes of the procedure.

Keywords: Dental; Esthetics; Gingiva; Lip surgery; Mouth mucosa surgery; Plastic surgery; Smiling; Treatment outcomes.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Esthetics, Dental*
  • Gingiva
  • Humans
  • Lip* / surgery
  • Mouth Mucosa
  • Smiling