Beyond Conventional Frenectomy: A Case Series
Abstract
Persistent midline diastema in adolescents is often associated with an aberrant high labial frenum requiring surgical correction. Advanced frenectomy techniques such as Z-plasty and V-Y plasty may provide favorable esthetic and functional outcomes in selected cases; however, larger studies with longer follow-up are required for definitive comparison with the conventional approach. These techniques enable improved tissue repositioning, reduced tension, minimal scar formation, and enhanced vestibular depth, thereby improving esthetic outcomes. This case series evaluates and compares conventional frenectomy with established advanced techniques, Z-plasty and V-Y plasty, in the management of abnormal labial frenum attachments. All techniques demonstrated satisfactory short-term healing and functional outcomes during the one-month follow-up period; however, the conventional method showed comparatively greater scar formation, whereas advanced techniques exhibited clinically favorable esthetic outcomes during short-term follow-up, improved tissue adaptation, and better functional results. Within the limitations of this case series, advanced frenectomy techniques may provide improved outcomes, and the choice of technique should be individualized based on clinical presentation and esthetic requirements.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Oral and Craniofacial Lesions
Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting Issues
Sexual Differentiation and Disorders
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Cureus
- Publisher
- Springer Science and Business Media LLC
- Volume
- 18
- Issue
- 5
- Pages
- e109233–e109233
- Publication date
- 19 May 2026
- Language
- EN