ABSTRACT
Whereas plastic surgeons are continually exploring new techniques to improve their results in facial rejuvenation, the aesthetic unit around the mouth often remains ignored or incompletely addressed. A lack of attention to this area can lead to results that are unbalanced and, subsequently, unnatural. A systematic approach to the perioral area that evaluates length of upper lip, position of labial commissure (mouth corner), laxity of nasolabial region, shape and volume of vermilion, and degree of perioral wrinkling guides appropriate selection of procedures. In our experience remote incision procedures, such as rhytidectomy (submuscular aponeurotic system [SMAS] or skin only) and midface elevation, are inadequate for a balanced rejuvenation. We have found a direct approach to the perioral area yields excellent results with procedures including lip lift, corner lift, lip advancements, nasolabial excision, volume restoration, and resurfacing. Distinctions in perioral aesthetics are discussed as are our preferred techniques.
KEYWORDS
Aging lips - aesthetic lips - perioral surgery
