Double Lip Surgical Correction in Ascher’s Syndrome: Diagnosis and Treatment of a Rare Condition

Abstract

Ascher’s syndrome is a rare disease first described in 1920 by Ascher, an ophthalmologist from Prague.1 The disease is characterized by a double upper lip, blepharochalasis, and nontoxic thyroid enlargement, though the thyroid enlargement may be evident in only 10% to 50% of patients.2,3 These deformities, though not posing functional problems, may cause severe psychological distress to the affected person because of the disfiguring effect on smiling.4 Prompt recognition of this syndrome can prevent unnecessary tests and diagnostic delays, and allow for quicker scheduling of appropriate surgical treatment.5