In cleft patients, over time the scar of the upper lip thickens & the upper lip becomes very thin. This lip incompetence can be treated with specialized Abbe-Flap technique. A tissue from the lower lip is sutured together with the upper lip making both the lips proportionately similar. In males, the flap is taken with the hair follicles to ensure mustache growth. Once blood supply is established, the flap is divided improving the form & function of the lips.
In some instances, along with the lip defect, there is also a disparity in the size of the jaws. If the upper jaw is retruded and lower jaw is protruding, then Abbe-flap is combined with upper jaw advancement to restore form & balance of the face. Defective nose shapes also require surgical correction to enhance the appearance & make the face more attractive.
In some instances, along with the lip defect, there is also a disparity in the size of the jaws. If the upper jaw is retruded and lower jaw is protruding, then Abbe-flap is combined with upper jaw advancement to restore form & balance of the face. Defective nose shapes also require surgical correction to enhance the appearance & make the face more attractive.
