Lip

A lip lift, also known as an upper lip lift or subnasal lip lift, is a surgical procedure designed to enhance the fullness and definition of the upper lip. The area between the base of the nose and the top of the upper lip is called the philtrum, and experts consider the ideal Trusted Source Lip Lifts: Rethinking the Role for this Important Procedure. Modern Aesthetics Go to Source philtrum length for women to be between 11 and 13 millimeters. However, as we age, the philtrum often lengthens, causing the natural groove in the middle, known as the philtral dimple, to flatten. Trusted Source The Impact of the Philtrum on Facial Attractiveness, Perioral Proportions, and Perceptions of Facial Aging Nunes D, Bran G Go to Source Research indicates that individuals with well-defined philtral contours are perceived as more youthful and attractive.

Ideal candidates for lip lift surgery are those who are in good overall health, non-smokers, and have realistic expectations about the results of the procedure. This surgery is particularly beneficial for individuals who have a long upper lip, thin upper lip, or those who desire more prominent and youthful-looking lips. Additionally, candidates should have healthy skin with good elasticity to ensure optimal healing and results. If you feel that your upper lip has lengthened or thinned over time, contributing to an aged or tired appearance, you may be an excellent candidate for a lip lift.

Types of Lip Lifts

• Direct or Gull-Wing Lip Lift:

  This technique involves removing an M-shaped strip of excess skin directly above the upper lip, which shortens the vertical space between the nose and the lip. This method Trusted Source Different Techniques and Quantitative Measurements in Upper lip lift: A Systematic Review Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Go to Source enhances the lip contour and accentuates the Cupid’s bow, providing a more defined and attractive appearance.

• Subnasal Bullhorn Lip Lift:

  An incision is made along the base of the nose in a bullhorn pattern. This lifts the central part of the upper lip closer to the nose, accentuating the Cupid’s bow and making the upper lip appear fuller. The subnasal bullhorn lip lift is popular for its ability to create a Trusted Source The upper lip lifts using the 'bull's horn' approach. J Drugs Dermatol Ramirez OM, Khan AS, Robertson KM Go to Source natural-looking lift with minimal visible scarring.

• Central Lip Lift:

  This procedure focuses on elevating the central section of the upper lip. By removing a small amount of excess skin from above the central part of the upper lip, the surgeon enhances the Cupid’s bow, creating a more pronounced and youthful lip shape.

• Corner Lip Lift:

  A corner lip lift, also known as a “smile lift,” is designed to elevate the outer corners of the mouth, creating a more youthful and pleasant expression. This procedure involves removing small triangles of excess skin from above the corners of the mouth, lifting the drooping edges and enhancing the natural curvature of the lips. It is especially beneficial for individuals who feel that the corners of their lips are downturned, giving them a perpetually sad or tired appearance.

• Modified Lip Lift:

  An advanced version of the traditional subnasal lip lift, the modified lip lift targets deeper layers beneath the skin. This approach adjusts the muscular structure and connective tissues, providing a more comprehensive lift and longer-lasting results.

The Lip Lift Surgical Procedure

Lip lift surgery is an outpatient procedure typically performed under local anesthesia. This procedure focuses on elevating the upper lip by removing a small strip of skin between the base of the nose and the upper lip’s pigmented area.

The entire procedure usually takes less than an hour and is meticulously tailored to suit your unique facial features and aesthetic goals. Our skilled surgeons customize the surgery to enhance the shape of your Cupid’s bow, potentially increasing the upturn and outward projection of your lips. The lip lift also has the advantage of correcting asymmetries while primarily shortening the upper lip to achieve a more youthful and balanced appearance.

Lip Lift Recovery

Recovery from lip lift surgery typically involves minimal downtime, with most patients experiencing mild discomfort and swelling in the first few days. It is normal to notice some redness and a feeling of tightness around the surgical area, which can persist for several weeks but is temporary.

To ensure a smooth recovery, our surgeons will provide you with detailed post-operative care instructions. It’s recommended to avoid excessive lip movements, such as talking or chewing, to reduce swelling and promote healing. Cold compresses and prescribed medications can help manage any discomfort.

Sutures are usually removed within a week during your follow-up appointment, where your surgeon will assess your healing progress. While most patients can return to work and normal activities within a week, it is advised to avoid strenuous activities for a few weeks to allow for complete recovery. Following these guidelines will help ensure optimal results and a swift return to your daily routine.

Lip Lift Results

The results of a lip lift are often immediately noticeable, with continued improvement as the initial swelling subsides. Patients can expect a more youthful and refreshed appearance, with enhanced definition and volume in the upper lip. By shortening the philtrum and lifting the central portion of the lip, the procedure creates a more pronounced Cupid’s bow and a naturally fuller look. This subtle yet significant change can greatly improve overall facial aesthetics, providing a balanced and harmonious appearance to the lip and mouth area.

¹ Modern Aesthetics. Lip Lifts: Rethinking the Role for this Important Procedure. Available: https://modernaesthetics.com/articles/2018-sept-oct/lip-lifts-rethinking-the-role-for-this-important-procedure . Accessed June 20, 2024.
² Nunes D, Bran G. The Impact of the Philtrum on Facial Attractiveness, Perioral Proportions, and Perceptions of Facial Aging. Aesthet Surg J. 2021 Jun 14;41(7):816-825. doi: 10.1093/asj/sjaa174. PMID: 32582914. Available: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32582914/. Accessed June 20, 2024.
³ Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. Different Techniques and Quantitative Measurements in Upper lip lift: A Systematic Review. Available: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9976673/. Accessed June 20, 2024.
⁴ Ramirez OM, Khan AS, Robertson KM. The upper lip lifts using the ‘bull’s horn’ approach. J Drugs Dermatol. 2003 Jun;2(3):303-6. PMID: 12848113. Available: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12848113/ . accessed June 20, 2024.