What Type of Surgery Is Needed To Correct A Double Upper Lip?

Q: Dr. Eppley, You had responded to an inquiry of mine a little while ago and I’d like to get more advice. I included a screen shot of the inquiry to remind you. In your response you mentioned that a mucosal roll could help however I’m afraid that rolling the inner upper lip upwards would cause my lip to be even thinner than it already is. Attached is a picture of my resting face to show what I mean. My problem is rather complex as my resting face doesn’t seem to have this problem. I’m wondering if there is some other problem going on. Any advice on the topic you can give would be highly appreciated.

A: Thank you for your inquiry and sending your pictures. What you have is a classic ‘double’ upper lip caused by a redundant mucosal tissue roll. Contrary to your perception your issue is not complex as everyone that has a similar problem exhibits it the same way….it only appears when smiling and not at rest. The only effective treatment is excision of the mucosal roll which is not known to thin out the upper lip as mucosa is very stretchable. True lip reduction can only occur from dry outer vermilion excision not internal wet mucosal excision.

Dr. Barry Eppley
Indianapolis, Indiana