Abstract
The peak of Cupid’s bow is a unique three-dimensional structure. Traditional reconstructive
techniques focus only on the correction of vermillion border malalignment and the
vertical discrepancy between Cupid’s bow peaks from a two-dimensional perspective.
The aim of this study was to introduce a novel technique – the muscle tension line
group reconstruction technique – to recreate the Cupid’s bow peak three-dimensionally
in secondary cleft lip repair. With this technique the orbicularis oris muscle is
divided into two flaps: a lateral one composed of pars marginalis and a medial one
composed of pars peripheralis. The full thickness of the medial flap is sutured to
the deep layer of the lateral flap, and the end of the lateral flap is then sutured
to the dermis lateral to the philtral dimple to accentuate a depression. In this way,
the two muscle flaps exert opposing skin traction on each side of the peak, which
improves the vertical height as well as the lateral projection of the Cupid’s bow
peak. The postoperative outcomes indicate that this is a reliable technique for three-dimensional
restoration of the Cupid’s bow peak, with a stable and natural reconstructive appearance.
Key words
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: December 21, 2020
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© 2020 Published by Elsevier Ltd on behalf of International Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons.
