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Semin Plast Surg 2003; 17(2): 199-208
DOI: 10.1055/s-2003-44764
Copyright © 2003 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA. Tel.: +1(212) 584-4662

Surgical Treatment of the Aging Mouth

Byron D. Poindexter, Robert K. Sigal, Harvey W. Austin, George W. Weston
  • The Austin-Weston Center for Cosmetic Surgery, Reston, VA
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Publication History

Publication Date:
24 November 2003 (online)

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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

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