Lip Lift
What Is a Lip Lift?
A lip lift is a small surgical procedure that modifies the length and contour of the upper lip. With age, the upper lip tends to elongate and turn inward, causing thinning and reduced tooth show. A lip lift reverses this by elevating the lip, restoring ideal proportions and a soft, youthful curve. Unlike temporary fillers, the results of a lip lift are permanent and offer a more natural look for patients seeking subtle refinement.
Symptoms and Concerns a Lip Lift Can Address
A lip lift may be suitable if you experience:
- An elongated philtrum (space between the nose and lip)
- Reduced visible upper lip height
- Diminished tooth show when smiling
- A thin upper lip without added volume
- A desire for improved facial harmony without fillers
Types of Lip Lift Procedures
Dr. Esen selects the appropriate technique based on the patient’s lip anatomy and aesthetic goals:
Subnasal (Bullhorn) Lip Lift
The most common technique. An incision is made along the natural crease under the nose, a small strip of skin is removed, and the lip is gently lifted and secured. This approach offers the most natural and balanced results, with a very discreet, well-hidden scar, and enhances both lip definition and smile aesthetics for most patients.
Corner Lip Lift
Lifts the outer corners of the mouth to improve a downturned expression. Ideal for patients with a “sad-looking” mouth corners who want to enhance their smile contour. This technique is often combined with a subnasal lift for a more complete aesthetic improvement.
Central Lip Lift
Targets only the central portion of the upper lip to enhance the cupid’s bow and upper vermilion. Best suited for patients who need central lip definition rather than a full-width elevation.
Who Is an Ideal Candidate for a Lip Lift?
You may be a suitable candidate if you:
- Have an elongated upper lip
- Want more visible pink lip without fillers
- Experience thinning of the upper lip due to aging
- Want improved tooth show
- Prefer a permanent, natural enhancement
- Are in good overall health
- Do not smoke, or are willing to stop before surgery
Patients looking for subtle, elegant lip aesthetics benefit most from this procedure.
How the Lip Lift Is Performed
A lip lift is typically performed under local anesthesia and takes about 30–45 minutes.
- 1. Marking the ideal lip proportions and incision design
- 2. Making a precise incision beneath the nasal base
- 3. Removing a thin strip of skin
- 4. Elevating and securing the upper lip to lift and shape it
- 5. Closing the incision with fine sutures for minimal scarring
The technique ensures the lip is lifted evenly, with careful attention to symmetry and natural movement.
Recovery Timeline
Days 1–3 Mild swelling and tightness are expected. Ice compresses are recommended.
Days 4–7 Bruising decreases. Sutures are removed after one week.
Week 2 Most swelling resolves. The incision begins to fade and blend with the natural crease.
Weeks 3–6 Lip shape becomes more refined. Patients may resume full activities.
Months 2–3 The scar continues to fade and results appear fully natural.
Expected Results
A lip lift provides:
- A shorter, more aesthetically balanced philtrum
- A fuller upper lip without added volume
- Enhanced smile and increased tooth show
- A more defined cupid's bow
- Long-lasting, natural enhancement
Results are permanent and do not depend on fillers or ongoing treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Will there be a visible scar?
The scar is hidden beneath the natural fold of the nose and becomes virtually invisible over time.
Can I still use fillers after a lip lift?
Yes. Many patients choose a lip lift for structural improvement and use minimal filler for added definition if desired.
How long do the results last?
Results are permanent.
Will a lip lift change my smile?
It enhances the smile by increasing tooth show while maintaining a natural expression.
Can I combine a lip lift with other procedures?
Yes. Common combinations include blepharoplasty, facelift, fat grafting, or lip filler refinement.