Surgical Method of a Corner Mouth Lift

BACKGROUND: The mouth and perioral area play a primary role in emotional expression, and these are among the most important areas projecting youth and attractiveness. A downturned corner of the mouth presents negative feelings such as sadness, depression, and tiredness. A corner mouth lift (CML) may restore more attractive and youthful appearance, which can favorably affect first impression, self-esteem, and the quality of life in patients. METHODS: From December 2016 to September 2018, 498 patients underwent a CML. There were 434 women and 64 men. The mean age was 38.99 years (19–63 years) and 34.19 years (21–67 years) in female and male patients, respectively. A total of 432 cases (86.7%) were primary surgical cases, whereas 66 (13.3%) were secondary cases. There were 178 patients (35.7%) who only underwent CML, whereas the remaining patients (64.3%) underwent the CML contemporarily with other perioral surgery such as subnasal lift. RESULTS: Most patients were satisfied with the results. However, some patients showed unsatisfactory outcomes such as hypertrophic scar, asymmetry, persistent swelling, or undercorrection. The most common complaints immediately after surgery were swelling and bruise, which were improved spontaneously within 1–2 weeks. Postoperative scar and undercorrection were the most common complications that required revision surgery. CONCLUSIONS: CML showed reliable and satisfactory outcomes in most patients. It could be a good option for patients who desire CML regardless of their age.