Name of the Procedure:

Repair of Lip, Full Thickness; Vermilion Only

• Common name: Vermilion Border Repair
• Medical term: Full-thickness Lip Repair (Vermilion)

Summary

This surgical procedure involves repairing the vermilion border of the lip, which is the area where the lip tissue meets the surrounding skin. It addresses injuries or deformities that affect the lip’s natural contour and function.

Purpose

This procedure is aimed at:

• Correcting traumatic injuries or surgical defects involving the vermilion border.
• Restoring the natural appearance and function of the lip.
• Enhancing both aesthetic and functional outcomes, such as improved speech and the ability to close the lips properly.

Indications

• Lacerations, cuts, or avulsions affecting the vermilion border.
• Congenital defects such as cleft lip that involve the vermilion.
• Surgical defects or those caused by tumor removal or biopsies.

Preparation

• Patients may need to fast for a few hours before the procedure.
• Adjustments in the use of certain medications, especially blood thinners.
• Pre-procedure diagnostics may include blood tests and physical examination of the lip and surrounding structures.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is typically administered to numb the area.
2. Incision and Debridement: Any damaged tissue is carefully removed.
3. Alignment: The vermilion border is meticulously aligned to ensure normal lip contour.
4. Suturing: Layers of tissue are sewn together using sutures that may be absorbable or non-absorbable.
5. Closure: Final stitches ensure the outer tissue is closed seamlessly.

• Tools used: Scalpels, fine sutures, forceps.
• Technology: Sometimes magnifying loupes for precision.

Duration

The procedure generally takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Setting

Typically performed in a hospital, outpatient surgical center, or specialized clinic.

Personnel

• Surgeon: Usually a plastic or oral and maxillofacial surgeon.
• Nurses: Assist in preparation and post-operative care.
• Anesthesiologist: If general anesthesia or sedation is required.

Risks and Complications

• Common: Bruising, swelling, temporary numbness.
• Rare: Infection, hematoma, scarring, asymmetry, or minor nerve damage.

Benefits

• Enhanced lip appearance and function.
• Quick recovery to normal activities usually within a few weeks.
• Improved self-esteem and comfort in social situations.

Recovery

• Post-procedure: Application of ice packs and prescribed medications to manage pain and prevent infection.
• Follow-up: Stitches may need removal after a week if non-absorbable.
• Restrictions: Avoid strenuous activities and direct trauma to the lip for a few weeks.

Alternatives

• Non-surgical cosmetic treatments (e.g., fillers) for minor defects.
• Larger reconstructive surgeries for extensive defects.
• Each alternative varies in invasiveness, recovery time, and outcomes.

Patient Experience

Patients typically feel minor discomfort which is managed with pain medication. Swelling and bruising are common and subside within a few days. Aesthetic results begin to be noticeable as the healing progresses over the next few weeks.