Micro-Coring: A Novel Approach to Perioral Rejuvenation

Background: A long philtrum and poor perioral skin quality are stigmata of the aging face. Micro-Coring is a novel technology that allows for scarless skin removal.

Objectives: In this study we aimed to determine whether micro-coring can shorten the philtrum and improve perioral skin quality.

Methods: A retrospective cohort study was performed on patients who underwent facelift with perioral micro-coring and age- and BMI-matched controls who underwent facelift alone. Preoperative and postoperative 3-dimensional facial imaging was performed. Standard perioral distances and percentage of change were calculated. Perioral skin quality was evaluated by blinded raters with the Scientific Assessment Scale of Skin Quality (SASSQ) and Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS).

Results: Thirteen patients and 13 controls were included, with a mean follow-up of 8.9 months (range 3.0-21.5). Patients had significantly shorter mean philtrum length postoperatively compared to preoperatively, with an average decrease of 6.18% (±2.25%; P < .05). Controls did not experience significant changes in philtrum length (P > .05). There were no significant changes in other perioral measurements. Perioral skin elasticity and wrinkles significantly improved in patients compared to controls and patients had significantly greater GAIS scores (P < .05).

Conclusions: Micro-Coring can achieve perioral rejuvenation through measurable shortening of the philtrum and observable improvement in skin quality. Nonsurgical techniques continue to find new ways to achieve aesthetic goals without significant recovery or scarring and offer value to patients and clinicians.