ABSTRACT
Lip reconstruction can be a challenging task for any reconstructive surgeon. Most of the modern techniques of reconstruction of full-thickness defects of lip are derivations of methods described in the 19th century. The anatomy of the lips includes three layers: skin, orbicularis oris muscle and mucosa. Defects related to oncological resection, trauma, burns and congenital deformities are all indications for lip reconstruction. A vast majority of cases of lip cancer involve the lower lip due to a higher level of ultraviolet light exposure compared with the upper lip. Lip reconstruction may be required for vermilion only, cutaneous (partial-thickness) or full-thickness defects. Partial-thickness defects of the upper or lower lip can either be closed primarily or with local flaps. In these local flaps, the underlying facial musculature remains intact and only the skin and subcutaneous tissue are mobilised.
