Can asymmetric smile be fixed by lip lift or other technique? (photos)

Question

3.5 years ago, I had a brow/cheek lift that resulted in nerve & muscle damage. Left side of upper lip is numb and appears to have muscle atrophy, causing it to appear longer vertically than the right side. (I also have excess sweating above it, indicative of nerve damage.) Although filler in the right side helps the asymmetry somewhat, I hope to restore my smile further and am seeking advice on how to do so. In the "current smile" photo, there is filler in the right side. Thank you very much!

Richard H. Tholen, MD, FACS · Answer

I am so very sorry you suffered this disastrous complication. Nerve and muscle damage can occur to any surgeon, though it should be exceedingly rare and nearly impossible in a young healthy-tissues woman that you obviously are (by photo). I have to ask why you even considered asking for these procedures in the first place? I don't have your age, or even the benefit of a full-face photo, much less a physical examination, but it appears as if you should have never had these operations in the first place, even if there had been no complications.But you have, and now you're wondering if more surgery can improve things. Nerve damage, muscle atrophy, gustatory sweating, and visible smile asymmetry are not "solved" by filler or lip lift solutions.Your considering more surgery is either very understanding, charitable, and bold, or exceedingly foolhardy. And I say that not to be critical, but to emphasize that this is a situation that requires the most careful personal evaluation, critical analysis, perhaps EMG testing or neuromuscular mapping, and much discussion before considering what recommendations might be feasible or appropriate.So stop looking online for answers, and go to a number of ABPS-certified plastic surgeon consultations for further advice. Even if it means travel to a major university center to see one or more plastic surgeons, ENT/facial plastic surgeons, and other specialists as required. My most sincere best wishes! Dr. Tholen

Can asymmetric smile be fixed by lip lift or other technique? (photos)

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Everything you need to know about Lip Lift

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Can asymmetric smile be fixed by lip lift or other technique? (photos)

Answers (1)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Lip Lift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.