Lip repositioning is a surgical procedure that can help to correct a gummy smile. This occurs when too much gum is exposed when the upper lip rises. The process is also called lip lowering surgery or "gummy tuck". It prevents the upper lip from rising too high and exposing more gum by restricting the elevator muscles that move and pull the lips upward.
After determining the extent of the gum exposure, doctors may use different approaches. They may recommend Botox injections or "gum lift" to relax the lip muscles in mild cases. In more severe cases, they can perform more invasive orthognathic surgery.
The lip repositioning surgery will start with administering a local anesthetic to the lip to numb the area. The surgeon then makes two incisions on the inner lip where the gum connects with the upper lip. They remove a flap of gum tissue between the incisions and suture the upper and lower sections together. The results are immediate and there will be no structural changes to the face overall.
Doctors may prescribe anti-inflammatory medication and oral antibiotics. These will help reduce swelling and minimize the possibility of infections. The use of ice packs over their lips to numb the area and minimize movement of the lips can also aid healing. The stitches inside the mouth can be removed two weeks after the procedure. The scars will be hidden and unnoticeable.
