Lip Reduction
Lip reduction is a minor surgery performed to reduce the size and volume of the lips. The aim is to reshape the lips so that they become thinner and aesthetically more attractive. Lip reduction can also be done to create certain desired shapes, for example, an upper lip with a well-defined Cupid’s Bow and a prominent central tubercle. Lip reduction can also be done to correct the abnormal shape of the lip secondary to injudicious injection of permanent filler.
Depends on the lips’ condition and the patient’s preference, both the upper and lower lips usually are reduced together. However, in some cases, only the upper lip or lower lip is reduced.
Preparation
1. Inform the doctor of any pre-existing medical conditions and drug allergy. All medical conditions must be treated and stabilized before surgery.
2. Stop smoking at least one week before surgery. Smoking is harmful to wound healing and increases the risks of other post-operation complications.
3. Stop taking the following medications and supplements one week before surgery:
a. Medicine that increases bleeding during surgery such as aspirin, NSAIDs and warfarin. However, you may need to consult your physician who prescribed the medicine before you stop them.
b. All supplements that contain vitamin E, ginseng, ginkgo, garlic, fish oil and other ingredients that increase bleeding during surgery. Other supplements, traditional medicine and herbs in which ingredients are unknown have to be stopped as well.
4. On the day of surgery, wear simple and comfortable clothing and do not wear any makeup. Do not wear any jewelry and metal objects on the face and body
Surgery
Duration: One to two hours
Anaesthesia: Local anaesthesia
Hospitalization: Not required.
Recovery*: Back to work in one to 3 days, light exercise after 3 days, heavy exercise after 2 weeks.
* The actual speed of recovery may vary from person to person.
Surgery Technique
An incision is made on the inner part of the lip and the lip is reduced by removing part of the lip tissue. The wound is closed with absorbable sutures. The wound is located on the inner aspect of the lip and is not visible from outside.
Post-operative Care**
1. What to expect: Swelling usually peaks on the second to third day after surgery and will gradually subside thereafter. Post-operative pain is usually minimal.
2. Avoid hot foods and drinks. Take soft diet and drink a lot of water.
3. General care
a. Apply cold pack first 3 days and warm pack thereafter. Elevate the head during sleep to reduce swelling.
b. Avoid smoking for at least one month. Smoking increases the risk of wound complications.
c. Good rest and adequate sleep are helpful for a speedy recovery.
d. Be relaxed and calm. Contact the clinic if there are any queries.
4. Medicine: Finish the oral antibiotics as prescribed. Take the painkiller as prescribed when necessary.
5. Wound care: Clean the wound with a clean cotton tip soaked with sterile water/saline. No dressings are required.
6. Physical activity: Avoid heavy physical activity and exercise for at least one month.
7. Follow-up: Come back one week after surgery for review. Sutures are self-absorbable and do not require removal.
8. Emergency: If there is heavy bleeding, rapid increase in swelling or severe pain, immediately contact the clinic/doctor for advice.
** The instructions in this list are only for general guidance and the list is not meant to be exhaustive. If you have any specific queries or concerns during the post-operative recovery, please contact the clinic for further advice.