How much does cleft lip surgery usually cost?
Labial surgery is generally divided into three types: thinning surgery for thick lips, repair surgery for congenital cleft lip, and repair surgery for acquired lip deformities. The corresponding prices are as follows: thick lip thinning surgery costs 3,000–8,000 RMB per session; congenital cleft lip repair surgery costs 8,000–20,000 RMB per session; and acquired lip deformity repair surgery also costs 8,000–20,000 RMB per session. Factors influencing the cost of labial surgery include surgical technique, surgeon experience, and regional differences.
Reference information on different types of labial surgeries and their costs:
Comparison Item / Procedure |
Thick Lip Thinning Surgery |
Congenital Cleft Lip Repair |
Acquired Lip Deformity Repair |
Reference Price |
3,000–8,000 RMB/session |
8,000–20,000 RMB/session |
8,000–20,000 RMB/session |
Principle of Procedure |
An incision is designed along the vermilion border where the lip meets the oral mucosa. An appropriate amount of mucosa and orbicularis oris muscle is removed based on the degree of thickness. |
Precise dissection, repositioning, and suturing of lip muscles, skin, and mucosa to restore normal anatomical structure and function while improving appearance. |
Restoring normal lip appearance and function through techniques such as tissue grafting, local flap transfer, and scar release. |
Applicable Candidates |
Suitable for individuals with congenitally thick lips or double lips. |
Suitable for patients with congenital cleft lip. |
Suitable for individuals who have developed lip deformities due to acquired causes. |
Recovery Period |
1–4 weeks |
1–3 months |
1–3 months |
Duration of Results |
5–10 years |
10–15 years |
15–20 years |
Potential Risks |
1. Risk of infection |
1. Impact on growth and development |
1. Necrosis of grafted tissue or flaps |
Factors affecting cost:
1. Surgical Technique: Thick lip thinning surgery is relatively simple, involving removal of part of the mucosa and muscle followed by suturing, thus associated with lower costs. In contrast, lip deformity correction is more complex, requiring precise adjustment of multiple tissues and higher technical expertise from the surgeon, resulting in higher prices.
2. Surgeon Experience: Surgeons with extensive experience and high professional reputation typically charge higher fees.
3. Regional Differences: In first-tier cities, higher living costs, concentration of medical resources, and increased expenses for rent and labor lead to higher surgical prices compared to second- and third-tier cities.
Before choosing labial surgery, it is essential to fully understand your individual lip condition and details of the procedure. Select a reputable hospital and an experienced surgeon to ensure safety. After surgery, strictly follow medical instructions for care, maintain good oral hygiene, and avoid infection.
