Introduction

Some individuals might think they look ugly because of their big lips. They may be able to deal with the issue and regain their lost self-esteem with the help of lip reduction surgery. A person with lips larger than average has a condition called macrocheilia. By bringing the top and lower lips into harmony with one another and balancing them with the other facial characteristics, lip reduction surgery helps to address this abnormality.

Not all lip reduction surgeries are performed for aesthetic reasons. The insufficient seal between the top and lower lips in a person with macrocheilia may impede oral function and lead to drooling and other issues. A person may experience confidence issues due to this disorder, which can influence speech style and functionality. Anyone interested in this surgery should speak with a surgeon with experience carrying out similar procedures.

What Is Lip Reduction?

Lower or upper lip skin tissues may be removed during lip reduction surgery, or sometimes both. To restructure the entire lip area, this is done. To ensure one does not experience any discomfort, local or general anesthesia is given first. During the surgery, the surgeon makes a horizontal incision in the inner part of the lip. It lessens scarring. The surgeon next cuts away extra tissue and fat from the lip to minimize the volume of the area. The surgeon will use stitches to seal the incision after removing all the targeted tissues. Within a couple of days or weeks, these typically disappear independently.

How Is the Procedure Carried Out?

Anesthesia either local or general anesthesia can be used throughout the surgery. Incisions are given in a "bullhorn" pattern beneath the nasal sill after removing the required lips width. After this, the necessary amount of upper lip skin and a small portion of muscle are removed. The area is then stitched using tiny stitches. To prevent the muscle from pulling during recovery, a small quantity of botulinum toxin is frequently injected to paralyze the area around the lip. The duration of this impact is roughly six weeks. The dressing is put on and removed on the operated site after four to five days.

What Are the Benefits of Lip Reduction Surgery?

Lip reduction is a major surgical treatment that must only be carried out by plastic surgeons who have attained certification.

The following are some advantages of lip reduction:

• The elimination of extra tissue or substances that result in lip deformity.

• Balances both the top and bottom lips, improving the harmony of the face.

• Usually, it just needs a local anesthetic agent.

• It is a short-term outpatient operation that takes less than an hour to complete.

• Most individuals only need one treatment to get long-lasting results.

• Almost no recovery time following the surgery.

• No apparent scarring.

Who Are the Ideal Candidates for Lip Reduction?

Anyone who wants to have their lips reduced in size to better balance their face proportions and improve their self-perception may be a good candidate for this operation. Like any operation, it is not appropriate for everyone.

The best person for this kind of cosmetic surgery is:

• Is not a smoker.

• Has a healthy body.

• Not affected by mental illness.

• Has a constant weight.

• Has expectations for the surgery that are reasonable.

Who Should Avoid This Procedure?

Contraindications to lip reduction include:

• Candidates having an intralabial space of more than 3 mm.

• Candidates who cannot pull their lower lips back.

• Candidates with weak facial muscles who drool.

• A certified plastic surgeon can decide who is an appropriate candidate for this lip enhancement treatment during the initial appointment if a person is considering getting it done.

How Safe Is Lip Reduction Surgery?

During the visit, the doctor will review the risks of lip reduction. For the right applicants, this surgery is considered safe, and most patients only experience little bleeding, edema, and pain after having it done.

However, there is a chance for negative side effects, which could include:

• A postoperative infection.

• Chronic discomfort.

• Immediate inflammation.

• Ongoing bleeding.

• Call the doctor immediately if one has any major adverse effects following lip reduction surgery.

What Is the Recovery Time of Lip Reduction Surgery?

Once the lip reduction is complete, one should be prepared with a companion to drive them home. One may still feel the anesthesia's effects for a few hours. Most patients recover after lip reduction within one to three weeks. The majority of patients can return to work the following day. After surgery, most patients have mild pain and edema, which peaks 3 to 4 days afterward. The doctor might prescribe a painkiller, antibiotic, or analgesic drug to assist with reduced swelling, infection, or discomfort.

This cosmetic surgical procedure may temporarily impair lip feeling or function. In most instances, it produces lasting improvements after just one treatment. Rarely does a patient require further operations to get the best results. While mending, the patient must drink plenty of water and keep a natural lip moisturizer. Within 7 to 15 days, the dissolvable sutures would fully deteriorate. Patients should refrain from participating in sports, hard lifting, or other rigorous physical activities for at least two weeks following surgery.

Conclusion

Immediately following lip reduction surgery, the results are visible. One may experience some days of swelling and redness, but the person can speak and communicate following the procedure. The wounds may not completely heal for a few weeks. The effects are long-lasting. A person might appear and feel better as a result of the operation. There could occasionally be a significant decrease in the size of the lips. The patient must have their lips augmented if the size is drastically reduced. Before opting for the procedure, one must discuss the risks and expected costs with the doctor.