Microcheilia (Microcheilia)

Microcheilia is an abnormally small lip size. This is a rare congenital condition in which the upper and/or lower lip are abnormally small.

The cause of microcheilia is disturbances in the development of facial structures in the early stages of embryogenesis. Most often this is due to mutations in the genes responsible for facial formation. The cause may also be intrauterine exposure to teratogenic factors (infections, drugs, alcohol).

Clinical manifestations of microcheilia vary from a moderate decrease in the size of the lips to their almost complete absence. Both the upper and lower lips may be affected. Sometimes microcheilia is combined with other developmental anomalies of the maxillofacial region.

Diagnosis is based on the clinical picture and exclusion of other causes of lip reduction. Treatment is mainly surgical using plastic surgery to increase the volume and size of the lips. The prognosis is generally favorable in the absence of associated anomalies.



Microcheilia: A rare condition characterized by abnormally small lips

Lips are an important anatomical element of the face, giving it expressiveness and aesthetic appeal. However, some people have a rare condition known as microcheilia or microlips, which is characterized by unusually small lips.

Microcheilia is the opposite of another rare condition called macrocheilia, which is characterized by excessive lip enlargement. While macrocheilia can be caused by various factors such as genetic abnormalities or injury, microcheilia is usually associated with genetic variations.

Microcheilia can manifest itself in varying degrees of severity. Some people's lips may be slightly smaller than normal, while others may have extremely small lips that are almost invisible. This condition can affect both the upper and lower lip, and sometimes both lips at the same time.

The causes of microcheilia are not fully understood, but it is believed that hereditary factors may play a role. The genes responsible for lip development may be changed or mutated, resulting in unusually small lips. However, further research is required to fully understand the genetic basis of microcheilia.

The social and emotional consequences of microcheilia can be varied. Some people may experience low self-esteem or dissatisfaction with their appearance due to lip size. In such cases, patients may turn to cosmetic procedures such as dermal filler injections to increase lip volume and achieve a more balanced appearance.

It is important to note that microcheilia, although a rare condition, does not pose a threat to the patient's health. It rather affects the aesthetic aspects of the appearance of the lips. Consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon or dermatologist can help patients experiencing discomfort due to microcheilia determine the most appropriate approach to improving the appearance of the lips.

In conclusion, microcheilia is a rare condition characterized by unusually small lip size. Inherited factors likely play a role in the development of this condition, but more detailed studies are needed to better understand its genetic basis. Although microcheilia can cause social and emotional problems, it does not pose a threat to the patient's health. Individual patient preferences and desires may determine the need for lip plumping procedures to achieve the desired appearance.

Patients suffering from microcheilia may consult plastic surgeons or dermatologists for advice on available lip plumping methods. Injections of dermal fillers such as hyaluronic acid may be an option to help achieve a more balanced lip appearance. However, it is important to discuss the potential risks and limitations with a healthcare professional before undergoing any procedures.

Although microcheilia is rare and poorly understood, understanding of this condition and its impact on patients is gradually increasing. Further research into the genetic basis and the development of individualized treatment approaches will help improve the quality of life for patients suffering from this condition.

Overall, microcheilia is a rare condition that is characterized by abnormally small lip size. Although it can cause aesthetic and emotional problems, there are techniques that can help patients achieve their desired lip appearance. Consultation with healthcare professionals will help determine the most appropriate approach and ensure that the needs of patients experiencing microcheilia are met.



Microcheilia is a condition where a person's lips become abnormally small, which can cause problems with their appearance as well as consequences for daily life and communication. Microcheilia was first described in 2013 by Dr. James L. Ashton of West Virginia University.