Abstract: PURPOSE: To explore the clinical effect of functional repair for bilateral cleft lip using modified Mulliken method. METHODS: Sixty-six patients with bilateral cleft lip were selected and assigned to receive modified Mulliken method. During the operation, the prolabium was kept as narrow "tie" shape, the orbicularis oris was anatomically repositioned, and the orbicularis oris ring was re-built. Vermilion tubercle was reconstructed with the lateral red vermillion. The nasal deformity was preliminarily repaired. and the nasal columella was elongated at the same time. RESULTS: All the patients were followed-up for 0.5-2 years, there was no “trisection upper lip”. The symmetry and natural shape of Cupid’s bow were obtained in more than 80% patients. The width of philtrum was similar to normal children. Full vermilion of the lips, moderate-size vermilion tubercles and good dynamic and static shape were obtained without whistle deformities. Normal width of nasal base and nostril symmetry were gained. The columella was elongated. Satisfactory contour of the nasal tip was achieved. CONCLUSIONS: Modified Mulliken method could functionally repair bilateral cleft lip and effectively correct nasolabial deformities. It is worthy of wide clinical application.

Key words: Mulliken method, Bilateral cleft lip, Functional repair