Isolated bilateral macrostomia: literature review and case report

Aim Macrostomia, or lateral cleft lip, which is known as Tessier cleft type 7, is one of the rarest facial anomalies. The purpose of this review is to describe the main characteristics, epidemiology, aetiology and treatment of this anomaly.Methods We present an overview of surgical techniques as well as a review of all 36 cases of bilateral asyndromic macrostomia reported to this da in the literature. Furthermore, we report the case of a 4-month male infant with bilateral transverse cleft lip and analyse the treatment decision and the procedure itself.Results Macrostomia may be found as a part of syndromes like oto-mandibular dysostosis, hemifacial microsomia, Treacher-Collins or Goldenhar syndrome, or in conjunction with additional facial symptoms. However, it is uncommon to find macrostomia as an isolated asyndromic entity. There are many surgical techniques proposed for the reconstruction of macrostomia, yet there is no consensus on the gold standard.Conclusion Early diagnosis and surgical intervention are crucial in treating children with these malformations. Adequate timely reconstruction plays a main role in both physical and psychological rehabilitation.