A labial frenectomy. The uppermost photo displays a maxillary labial frenum that was deemed disruptive to orthodontic treatment by the patient's orthodontist. The middle photo displays the labial fold after the frenum was incised (note the diamond-shaped wound). The third photo displays the wound after suturing of the incision which was completed.
A labial frenectomy is a form of frenectomy performed on the lip.
The labial frenulum often attaches to the center of the upper lip and between the upper two front teeth. This can cause a large gap and gum recession by pulling the gums off the bone. A labial frenectomy removes the labial frenulum. Orthodontic patients often have this procedure done to assist with closing a front tooth gap. When a denture patient's lips move, the frenulum pulls and loosens the denture which can be uncomfortable. This surgery is often done to help dentures fit better.
The removal of the frenulum does not cause any adverse effects to the lip and mouth.
|This surgery article is a stub. You can help Wikipedia by expanding it.|