Lip reduction surgery : A procedure to reduce the size of lips ( indications & outcomes)

Our lips vary in height and volume. Some of us would rather have them to be smaller in size. Lip reduction is a plastic surgery procedure to permanently reduce the size of lips. 

Lip reduction may be performed on the upper or lower lips or both. The amount of the reduction is based on patient expectations. Also, the size of lips has to match rest of the facial characteristics like chin and jaw line. In the absence of ideal lip dimensions, the procedure is as much an art as it is about surgical technique.

It is a simple office based procedure. It is carried out under local anesthesia. Sometimes it may be combined with sedation to make it more comfortable. After anesthetizing the lips with local anesthetic, a wedge is removed from the inner aspect of lips. The wound is closed using dissolving sutures. The patient can return home the same day after the procedure. Cold compresses and pain medications are prescribed for a few days.

It is common to have post-operative swelling of the operated site for a few days. Post-operative discomfort is easily managed with the help of pain medications. Over the subsequent days, the swelling gives way to an improved appearance of lips. In most cases the scar settles very well. In some individuals, there may be an altered sensation of lips which usually settles without any further treatment.