Normal lip dimension in females: An aid to lip re-construction surgeries

Abstract

Background: The lip is the predominant structure responsible for the aesthetics of the lower third of the face. With the ethno-racial differences in lip  dimensions, there is the need to generate normative anthropometric values which will serve as baseline data for Nigerian females. The aim of the study  was to establish reference standards in lip anthropometry for Eastern Nigerian females, which will serve as a guide to Maxillofacial, Plastic and  Reconstructive Surgeons practicing in Nigeria.

Method: A gender based cross–sectional study on the anthropometric variables of the lips of 220 females,  with ages ranging from 6 months to 55 years, in Enugu, Eastern Nigeria. The results were compared with that of a previous study on females in other  populations.

Result: There was a progressive increase in mean values of the intercommissural distance with the lips relaxed and measured in a straight  line (ICD – Sc) with increasing age (6 months to 12 years). There was progressive increase in the mean values of the intercommissural distance with lips  voluntarily retracted maximally laterally, from 6.1 to 12 years, reaching a maximum at 10.1 to 12.0 years. The value became constant from 12.1 years. The  height of the upper lip demonstrated a progressive increase from 6 months to 8 years. There was a minimal increase in inter soft tissue gape (ISG) in  the subjects in the 10.1 to 12.0 years age group, which subsequently decreases in a fairly constant pattern thereafter.

Conclusion: This study provided  standard values for lip dimensions for Enugu females which can be used as a guide in reconstructive surgery involving Nigerian females especially those  of Enugu extraction.