A Comprehensive Literature Review on the Architecture of the Upper Labial Frena

Abstract

Over the past few years, various surgical procedures have evolved that focus on releasing the taut superior labial frena in infants, yet little is known about their normal or variant morphology despite the growing incidence of severe upper labial frenar tie. Apart from this, the role played by distorted upper labial frena in uncomfortable latching or problems in breast feeding has been a major concern among mothers thereby significantly affecting public health. Hence, the purpose of this literature review is to lucidly highlight the various existing grading schemes and classification systems in literature for superior labial frena and also to understand their precise morphology and developmental origins that will be of great help to oral surgeons and plastic surgeons in performing release repair or reconstructions for the upper lip tie.