The aging upper lip.

The upper lip is vulnerable to rapid aging, and because it is a key vehicle of expression it may distort the communication of positive inward feelings, demoralizing and defeating the subject. Rhytidectomy may only leave the aging lip more conspicuous against the background of elevated tissue, and removal of fine wrinkling may merely accent the elongated, convex form of the lip. But a tracing following first the alae nasi and then the ridge of the philtrum will define an area for resection, suitably adapted to individual patients' needs, that will rejuvenate the vulnerable upper lip.