Lip Reconstruction — Wedge Excision, Lip-Switch Flaps, and Functional Restoration

This episode reviews the core principles of lip reconstruction, focusing on layered anatomy, aesthetic landmarks, vascular supply, and functional restoration.Topics include the orbicularis oris sphincter, three-layer closure, vermilion border alignment, the white roll, Cupid’s bow, philtral columns, commissure anatomy, and the location of the superior and inferior labial arteries deep to the orbicularis oris. The episode also reviews the key reconstructive thresholds: approximately one-third of the lower lip and one-quarter of the upper lip can often be closed primarily.Reconstructive strategies are organized by defect size and location, including wedge excision, shield excision, W-plasty, Abbe flap, Estlander flap, Stein procedure, Karapandzic flap, Gillies fan flap, Webster-Bernard advancement, and radial forearm free flap reconstruction with palmaris longus suspension.Clinical considerations include microstomia, oral incompetence, sensory recovery, commissuroplasty, splinting, vermilionectomy for actinic cheilitis, and the trade-offs between dynamic local tissue reconstruction and static free flap salvage.Part of Dr. Lara’s Plastic Surgery Compendium — a high-yield audio reference for plastic surgery trainees and surgeons. DisclaimerThis podcast is intended for educational purposes only and is designed for medical students, residents, fellows, and practicing healthcare professionals. It is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment for any individual patient. The content presented reflects general surgical principles and should not be used as a substitute for formal medical training, clinical judgment, or consultation with qualified healthcare professionals. Listening to this podcast does not establish a physician–patient relationship.SEO / Topic Keywordslip reconstruction, lower lip reconstruction, upper lip reconstruction, vermilion border repair, white roll alignment, orbicularis oris repair, labial artery anatomy, wedge excision lip, Abbe flap, Estlander flap, Karapandzic flap, Webster-Bernard flap, Gillies fan flap, radial forearm free flap lip reconstruction, palmaris longus suspension, microstomia, oral competence, actinic cheilitis vermilionectomy