Dual-Vector Gracilis Muscle Transfer for Smile Reanimation with Lower Lip Depression

What Is This Study About?

This study presents a novel surgical technique for simultaneously restoring both smile and lower lip movement using a single gracilis muscle transfer with two vectors of pull. Traditional techniques focus only on the upper lip, but this approach also addresses the lower lip for a more complete smile.

Key Findings

• Developed a dual-vector technique using a single gracilis muscle transfer
• Restores both upper lip elevation (smile) and lower lip depression simultaneously
• Achieves a more complete, natural-looking smile with a single donor muscle

What This Means for Patients

Patients with facial paralysis affecting both the upper and lower lip can achieve a more complete smile restoration from a single surgery rather than requiring multiple procedures.