Abstract
BACKGROUND: A gummy smile is treated using many techniques, including botulinum toxin injection and various surgical interventions. Micro-autologous fat transplantation (MAFT) is a potentially advantageous alternative approach that has not been previously evaluated. OBJECTIVES: This study sought to determine the long-term results of MAFT in patients with a gummy smile. METHODS: Seven patients with gummy smiles were evaluated for MAFT treatment between October 2015 and April 2017. Centrifuged purified fat was micro-transplanted into the nasolabial groove, ergotrid, and upper lip areas using the MAFT-GUN while the patients were under total intravenous anesthesia. RESULTS: The mean age of the 7 patients was 31 years (range, 23-40 years). The mean operating time for MAFT was 52 minutes (range, 40-72 minutes), and the mean volume of fat delivered to the nasolabial groove, ergotrid, and upper lip was 16.1 mL. The mean decreases of gingival display in the right canine incisor, left canine incisor, right canine, and left canine teeth were 4.9, 4.6, 3.8, and 4.4 mm, respectively. The smiles of the 7 patients showed significant improvement at an average follow-up time of 12.9 months. CONCLUSIONS: Gummy smile treatment using MAFT is an effective, reliable, and relatively simple method, with high patient satisfaction and minimal risk of complications.