An alternative method for vermilion reconstruction after resection of hemangiomas of the lip.
OBJECTIVE
We describe a method for symmetrical vermilion reconstruction after resection of hemangiomas of the lip.


METHODS
Four patients underwent vermilion reconstruction after resection of large cavernous hemangiomas of the lip. This reconstruction technique employed 3 basic components: 1 ) labial mucosal advancement flap, 2 ) orbicularis oris muscle flap, if necessary, and 3 ) free mucosal graft.


RESULTS
All patients successfully underwent the planned procedures without significant complications. Symmetrical profiles of vermilion of the lip were achieved in all cases, even when an extended excision had been performed.


CONCLUSIONS
We have found that the combination of labial mucosal advancement flaps, with or without muscular flaps, and free mucosal grafts provides excellent esthetic outcomes with a low complication rate. This method should be incorporated into the surgical techniques for symmetrical reconstruction after resection of hemangiomas of the lip.
Nakamura
Norifumi
N
Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Kyushu University Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan. nakamura@dent.kyushu-u.ac.jp
Kawano
Shintaro
S
Nakao
Yu
Y
Tateishi
Koichiro
K
Ohishi
Masamichi
M
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D004954:Esthetics; D005152:Facial Muscles / Q000637:transplantation; D005260:Female; D006392:Hemangioma, Cavernous / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008046:Lip / Q000601:surgery*; D008048:Lip Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery*; D008875:Middle Aged; D009061:Mouth Mucosa / Q000637:transplantation; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures / Q000379:methods*; D013524:Surgical Flaps