The Reconstructive Lip Lift: Elevating Esthetics in Cancer Surgery

ABSTRACT Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common form of skin cancer, frequently affecting the nasal and perioral regions. This case report presents an elderly patient with a BCC on the right subnasale, accompanied by slight drooping of the subnasale. The patient had previously undergone a contracture release of the lesion and biopsy which revealed residual malignant tumor cells in the inferior margin. A subsequent wide excision was performed using a bullhorn lip lift incision to achieve complete tumor resection and simultaneously improve esthetic appearance. The excision margins were confirmed to be clear of tumor cells. The bullhorn lip lift incision, chosen for its ability to reconstruct both functional and cosmetic outcomes, was strategically placed along the natural contours of the nasal base and upper lip. Postoperative recovery was uncomplicated, with full restoration of lip mobility and improved nasal symmetry. This case highlights the utility of combining an esthetic procedure with oncologic surgery, demonstrating that reconstructive approaches can significantly improve both form and function, even in elderly patients.