Understanding Cheiloplasty: Types, Procedure, and Risks

Cheiloplasty is a surgical procedure that involves reshaping the lips. It can be used to improve the appearance of the lips, correct asymmetry or unevenness, or to repair damage caused by injury or disease.

There are several types of cheiloplasty procedures, including:

1. Lip lift: This procedure involves making an incision just under the nose and raising the upper lip to create a more youthful, pouty appearance.
2. Lip augmentation: This procedure involves injecting fillers such as collagen or fat into the lips to increase their size and fullness.
3. Lip reduction: This procedure involves removing excess skin or tissue from the lips to create a more defined shape.
4. Lip reconstruction: This procedure involves rebuilding the lips after injury or surgery to restore their natural shape and function.

Cheiloplasty is typically performed under local anesthesia, which numbs the area, and can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours depending on the complexity of the procedure. After the procedure, the lips may be swollen and bruised, but these side effects should subside within a few days.

It's important to note that cheiloplasty is a surgical procedure and carries risks such as infection, scarring, and changes in sensation or function of the lips. It's important to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon before undergoing any cosmetic procedure to discuss the risks and benefits and determine if it's right for you.