A lot of problems caused by scleroderma are cosmetic but it doesn’t mean they are not important and a change in appearance is important to all of us.
Deep lines around the lips worry many scleroderma sufferers but unfortunately collagen injections and laser treatment are not advisable as they may cause scarring. Tightening of the skin of the face may lead to microstomia - a small mouth. Facial and mouth exercises may help. "Disappearing lips" can be a very upsetting cosmetic problem and a reputable plastic surgeon may be able to perform an operation called a mucosal advancement.
Telangiectasia [the dilated blood vessels that appear on the skin] may also appear on the lips or in the mouth. These can be cauterised if they tend to bleed or treated with pulsed dye laser therapy.
Slide 42 of 62
