Which Is Better For Thin Lips – A Vermilion Advancement or a V-Y Advancement?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I am thrilled about which intervention I have to have done to my lips. They are both thin and fillers give me a duck look. I can’t decide if a vermilion advancement or a V-Y plasty is the best for me. Thank you for taking the time to answer me!

A: Usually the vermilion advancement  or lip advancement works best in very thin lips because they lack adequate vermilion height for exposure. The V-Y advancement is an internal mucosal roll procedure that primarily creates greater central lip pout and increased vertical lip length, in essence a greater effect on mucosa than the vermilion. They actually are quite different procedures on their effect on creating lip size and shape. The vermilion advancement is also much more versatile in shaping the cupid’s bow area of the central upper lip which the V-Y advancement can not do.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana