Abbe Flap for Secondary Cleft Lip Deformity

The objective of cleft lip surgery is to restore the structure and function of the upper lip. Despite initial repair, some patients develop secondary cleft lip deformity encompassing a shortened philtrum, reduced vermillion height, with excessive tooth visibility. The Abbe flap is a well-described approach for the management of this deformity. The following case describes a 33-year-old female with a history of bilateral cleft lip and palate who presented with secondary cleft lip deformity. She was successfully treated with an Abbe lip-switch flap. Anthropometric measurements supported improved facial aesthetics similar to those in the supplemental literature review. This case also illustrates how oral mucosa from the resected, scarred philtrum can be used to repair nasolabial fistulae.