ASJ Article Highlight

July 2020

In an insightful patient-safety-focused original study, Dr. Hee-Jin Kim and colleagues from South Korea examine the detailed anatomy of the orbicularis oris muscle, specifically near the vermilion border - a region that has historically been under explored. The goal of the study is to provide a better understanding of this complex area, which plays a significant role in facial aesthetics and functionality.

The orbicularis oris muscle is responsible for the movements of the mouth an lips, including speaking, kissing, and expressions. While many aesthetic procedures, particularly the use of botulinum toxin, target this area for cosmetic enhancement, injecting the upper lips has always been a challenge due to a lack of clear anatomical guidelines. Misplacement of the botulinum toxin can lead to undesirable outcomes, including issues with lip movement, drooping, or asymmetry, which can have a significant impact on the patient’s appearance and confidence.

Dr. Hee-Jin Kim and his team’s study focuses on a classification system from the orbicularis oris muscle based on its shape and the appearance of the lips. By establishing these anatomical types, the study provides a reliable reference that can be used by clinicians to better understand the variations in this region and to inject botulinum toxin into the upper lip with greater precision and safety.

The study found that the shape of the orbicularis oris muscle varies significantly among individuals, and these variations can impact both the outcome of the injection and the risk of complications. By classifying the muscle types, the researchers provide a framework for clinicians to assess the anatomy of their patients before performing the procedure. this personalized approach is crucial for enhancing both safety and aesthetic outcomes.

The study’s findings are an important advancement in the field of aesthetic medicine. With this new understanding of the orbicularis oris muscle and its variations, clinicians can more confidently perform upper lips injections, reducing the risk of complications while achieving more natural and symmetrical results.

For practitioners, this study serves as an essential reference, highlighting the importance of individualized treatment plans based on the patient’s unique anatomy. As botulinum toxin injections continue to grow in popularity, the insights from Dr. Park and his team will undoubtedly contribute to safer and more effective treatments in the future. This research is not only a step forward in patient safety but also in elevating the overall standard of care in aesthetic medicine.

In conclusion, if you are a clinician or practitioner who performs aesthetic procedures, particularly upper lip injections, this study is a must-read. By integrating these findings into your practice, you can ensure that your patients receive the best possible care, with outcomes that enhance both their appearance and their confidence. The work of Dr. Jim Park and his co-authors underscores the value of the anatomical research in improving patient safety and the quality of aesthetic treatments.

Read the full article here: https://academic.oup.com/asj/article/40/7/778/5639737?login=false