Lip Repositioning: A Boon in Smile Enhancement

J Cutan Aesthet Surg. 2017 Oct-Dec;10(4):219-222. doi: 10.4103/JCAS.JCAS_50_17.

Abstract

This clinical report describes the successful use of lip repositioning technique for the reduction of excessive gingival display. The lip repositioning technique was performed with the main objective of reducing gummy smile by limiting the retraction of elevator muscles (e.g., zygomaticus minor, levator anguli, orbicularis oris, and levator labii superioris). This technique includes removing a strip of mucosa from the maxillary buccal vestibule, creating a partial-thickness flap between mucogingival junction and upper lip musculature, and suturing the lip mucosa with mucogingival junction, resulting in a narrow vestibule and restricted muscle pull, thereby reducing gingival display.

Keywords: Elevator muscles; gingival display; gummy smile; mucogingival junction.

Publication types

  • Case Reports