Carcinoma of the Upper Lip- Case Report and Review of the Literature

Aim: Carcinoma of the upper lip is less frequent than in the lower lip. It affects both sexes in equal proportion. Histologically basal cell carcinomas are numerically preponderant and are observed in 50% of cases in the skin and adnexae in the oro-facial area. Methods: The authors describe a major defect of the right upper lip after a wide resection for carcinoma. Immediate reconstruction was performed with rotation of a flap from the lower lip according to Estlander. The postoperative oral deformity persisted after radiotherapy and during the subsequent follow up. At a later stage, and after radiotherapy, two lipostructure procedures improved the volumetric, soft tissue texture and functional outcomes. The combination of these techniques yielded a satisfactory morpho-functional result maintaining symmetry, function and aesthetics in the orofacial and in the labial-commissure area. Conclusion: A clinical case of right upper lip basocellular carcinoma is reported. Resection and immediate reconstruction with a flap rotation from the lower lip flap according to Estlander, were carried out. During the follow-up lipostructure procedures improved volumes, functions, morphology and soft tissue texture as well.