Evaluation of Upper and Lower Lip Growth following Cronin Method Labioplasty in Unilateral Complete Cleft Lip and Palate Cases

摘要

The importance of lips in influencing facial profile quality is now a major consideration in the surgical treatment of patients with cleft lips. Orbicularis oris reconstruction is important in the Cronin method of labioplasty in order to balance upper lip growth. This study evaluates upper- and lower lip growth following Cronin method labioplasty in patients with unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP) based on the protocol of the Cleft Center Harapan Kita General Hospital. After undergoing the Cronin method of labioplasty, 36 patients with UCLP were photographed on the anterior and lateral sides using a standardized method at ages 1 and 2 years. The upper and lower lips were measured and compared. At 1 year of age, the lower lip height and vermillion length were slightly lesser than the upper lip height and vermillion length. At 2 years of age, the lower lip height and vermillion length were slightly lesser than the upper lip height and vermillion length. The lower lip was 94%-95% as large as the upper lip. Based on anthropometric measurements, the vertical height and vermillion length of the upper and lower lips in UCLP cases increases with age after following Cronin method of labioplasty.