Changes in lip dimensions in a male eastern Nigeria population

Abstract

The aim of the study was to establish reference standards in lip anthropometry for eastern Nigerian males, which will serve as a guide to Maxillofacial, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons practicing in Nigeria. A cross – sectional study which lasted for 6 months was carried out on the anthropometric variables of the lips of 220 males, with ages ranging from 6 months to 55 years, in Enugu, eastern Nigeria. Result showed progressive increment in mean values of the intercommissural distance with the lips relaxed and measured in a straight line (ICD – Sc) with increasing age, from 6 months to 12 years. There was progressive increase in the mean values of the intercommissural distance with lips 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 progressive increase in the inter soft tissue gape (ISG) from 4.00 – 4.22 ± 4.80 cm in the 10.1 to 12.0 years age group, with a peak between 6.1 – 8.0 years. Subsequently the values decreased in a fairly constant pattern. This study has provided approximate values for lip parameters for Enugu males which can also be used as a guide in reconstructive surgery for other Nigerian male populations, due to their similar anthropometric and demographic profiles.

Key Words: Anthropometry, Lips, Intercommissural, Reconstructive