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The Gliding Lip Lift
Milind D. Kachare, M.D.
T. Gerald O'Daniel, M.D.
University of Louisville
2022-01-15
Presenter: Milind Kachare
Affidavit:
Agree
Director Name: Bradon J. Wilhelmi
Author Category: Resident Plastic Surgery
Presentation Category: Clinical
Abstract Category: Aesthetics
Goals/Purpose:
Creating the ideal upper lip shape and position is an important goal in facial rejuvenation. An ideal lip lift would shorten the entire lip – in particular the lateral lip, shape the inverted lateral vermillion, correct lateral lip ptosis, and correct asymmetry - all with minimal scarring, rapid recovery of mimetic function, and a predictable outcome. We present a novel technique, coined the "Gliding Lip Lift" (GLL), which is versatile enough to provide superior peri-oral aesthetic results that address the variety of variables required.
Methods/Technique:
203 patients underwent the GLL from 2019 – 2021. Patients with elongation of the central and lateral lip were candidates for a complete upper lip lift. Patients with maxillary excess, an obtuse nasolabial angle, or excess elongation of the lateral lip as compared to the central lip were candidates for an isolated lateral lip lift.
Results/Complications:
The GLL was used for entire upper lip reshaping in 136 patients and an isolated lateral lift in 67 patients. The average follow-up was 8.5 months. Three patients underwent a minor revisionary procedure. There were no major complications.
Conclusion:
The GLL incorporates the advantages of a sub-SMAS lift with strong ligamentous suspension and a hemostatic net. This addresses many of the previously noted shortcomings of surgical cheiloplasty by allowing the surgeon to customize the shape of the lip, correct lateral ptosis, and restore ideal lip height, all while providing a tension free closure for better scarring and quick recovery, which can also be done simultaneously with adjunctive procedures for volume restoration.
