What Procedure Will Show More Upper Teeth When I Smile?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I wanted to ask you about my smile. I show very little or not enough upper teeth when I smile or talk. You recommended a smile lip reduction. My question is, is it lifetime after surgery? How long is the downtime? Whats the exact procedure called? Thank you and God bless.

A: Thank you for your inquiry. As the name implies (smile line reduction/elevation), it is an excisional procedure which removes a strip of dry vermilion. (very similar to a lip reduction procedure) Thus it raises the lower edge of the upper lip as seen along the teeth behind it. Because it is an excisional procedure it is permanent. Other than some lip  swelling it has a minimal recovery time as it relates to work or any physical activity. The sutures used are resorbable and no specific after care is needed other than some care when drinking or eating.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana