Ep 8. Lip Service

In Botched by Nature season 1 episode 8, titled Lip Service, plastic surgeons Dr. Paul Nassif and Dr. Terry Dubrow are helping a woman named Dee who has had a lip deformity since she was born. Dee was born with a cleft lip and palate, which were corrected through surgery when she was a baby. However, the reconstruction did not completely fix her asymmetrical lips and as Dee grew, the gap between her lips continued to increase, affecting her confidence and self-esteem.

Dee meets with Dr. Nassif and Dr. Dubrow to explore her options for lip reconstruction. After examining Dee's case, the doctors determine that the best course of action is a two-part surgery. In the first part of the surgery, Dr. Nassif will perform a lip lift to bring the sides of Dee's mouth up and create a more symmetrical appearance. In the second part, Dr. Dubrow will insert a tissue expander in Dee's lower lip to stretch the skin and prepare it for a lip implant.

The surgery is not without its challenges, as Dee's scar tissue from her previous surgeries makes it difficult for the doctors to work with her lips. Additionally, the tissue expander causes discomfort for Dee, and she must wear a device to stretch her lips for several weeks leading up to the second surgery. However, Dee remains committed to the process and is ultimately thrilled with the results of the surgery.

In addition to Dee's case, the episode also features a young woman named Sabrina, who comes to the doctors seeking help for her oversized upper lip. Sabrina has had lip filler injections in the past, which have left her lips imbalanced and protruding. Dr. Nassif and Dr. Dubrow work together to remove the excess filler and reshape Sabrina's upper lip, giving her a more natural appearance that she is much happier with.

The episode also includes a segment on a man named Michael, who suffers from a rare condition called lymphedema that has caused his lower lip to swell severely. Dr. Nassif and Dr. Dubrow examine Michael's case and ultimately refer him to a specialist who can provide more specialized treatment.

Throughout Lip Service, viewers see the emotional impact that cosmetic surgery can have on those who feel self-conscious about their appearance. Dee's transformation is particularly moving, as she gains newfound confidence and joy after her lip surgery. The episode also underscores the importance of seeking out qualified and experienced plastic surgeons, as the work of untrained individuals can lead to botched results and long-term damage. Overall, Lip Service is a compelling look at the art and science of lip reconstruction and the ways in which it can change people's lives.