Exploring the Causes and Treatment of Extra Skin on Lip

The skin on our lips is one of the most sensitive areas of our body, therefore it’s often subjected to various issues influenced by several factors such as weather changes, dietary habits, personal hygiene, or underlying health conditions. One of these issues is the formation of extra skin on the lip. This dermatological condition usually manifests as small, flesh-colored outgrowths that can occur on both the upper or lower lips. In most cases, this extra skin is harmless, but it can sometimes create discomfort or impact aesthetic appearance.

The medical term for this condition is ‘fibroma’. It is a benign skin tumor that tends to develop following an injury or a long-term irritation, even following some surgical procedures like penile revision. Unlike cancerous growths, fibromas do not spread to other parts of the body. However, if they are subjected to constant irritation or trauma, they might show signs of malignant transformation. This is why any growth, including extra skin on the lip, should be examined by a dermatologist or oral surgeon.

There are several causes that lead to the development of fibromas or extra skin on the lip. Some common causes include; lip sucking or biting habit, injury from dentures, teeth, or sharp food, ill-fitting oral appliances, chemical irritants present in lip cosmetics, or a viral infection namely human papillomavirus (HPV). In rare cases, some genetic syndromes also predispose an individual to develop lip fibromas.

Diagnosis and treatment

Diagnosis of extra skin on the lip involves a careful examination by a professional healthcare provider. The appearance, location, color, and the presence of similar growths elsewhere usually contribute to a visual diagnosis. Sometimes, a biopsy might be advised to rule out chances of malignancy.

Treatment for extra skin on the lip depends on factors such as the size of the fibroma, the location, and the level of discomfort or cosmetic concern. If the fibroma isn’t bothersome, doctors generally suggest a ‘wait and see’ approach. However, if it is large, causing discomfort, or affecting aesthetics, surgical intervention is considered.

The removal of the extra skin on the lip can be done under local anesthesia. Traditional surgical excision, laser surgery, electrocauterization, or cryosurgery are potential treatment options. Research shows that the recurrence rate is quite low, ranging between 0-20% in different studies. However, removal of the irritant or cessation of the habit causing it is crucial to prevent recurrence.

Prevention and care

The prevention of extra skin on the lip is largely dependent on maintaining a good oral hygiene routine, avoiding irritants, and addressing the oral habits causing it. It’s also recommended to keep the lips moisturized using a good quality lip balm, especially in harsh weather conditions.

In conclusion, while the extra skin on the lip might seem alarming, in most cases, it is harmless. However, given that it could be an early sign of more serious conditions, it is best to get it checked and treated promptly to maintain overall oral health and aesthetics. Remember, it is always better to prevent than to treat, hence maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding irritants is the best strategy.