Lip Lift Surgery

Creating Fuller, More Youthful-Looking Lips

Lip lift surgery is a popular cosmetic procedure designed to enhance the appearance of the lips by reducing the distance between the nose and the upper lip. This subtle yet effective procedure reshapes the upper lip, adding height and a more pronounced “Cupid’s bow” to achieve a fuller, youthful, and balanced look. Lip lift surgery has become increasingly popular among patients seeking natural enhancement and a permanent solution for a lifted, more defined upper lip.

What is Lip Lift Surgery?

Lip lift surgery is a minimally invasive procedure performed to improve the shape and contour of the upper lip. This is achieved by shortening the philtrum, the area between the nose and the top of the upper lip. Over time, this distance often increases as part of the natural aging process, causing the lips to look thinner or flatter and making the upper lip appear to “droop.” The lip lift corrects these changes, giving the lips a fuller appearance by subtly raising and reshaping the upper lip.

Several lip lift techniques can be used depending on a patient’s goals, but the most common is the “bullhorn” lip lift. In this technique, a small, precisely shaped incision is made along the base of the nose. A strip of skin is then removed and the deep-plane of the lip is dissected over the surface of the orbicularis muscle, allowing the lip to be lifted upwards and giving it a more visible and prominent shape. This type of lift produces a very long-lasting result with enhancement of the youthful look of Cupid’s bow. A lip lift leaves a discreet scar that is well-hidden in the natural folds beneath the nose, and once healed, the results look entirely natural.

The Lip Lift Procedure

Lip lift surgery is typically performed under local or deeper conscious sedation and takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the extent of the lift required. After making the small incision, the surgeon carefully adjusts the lip shape by removing a tiny section of skin from just under the nose, elevating the skin in the deep-plane on the surface of the muscle, and then gently lifting the lip upward. The lip lift does not add volume but instead elevates the lip to give it a natural appearance of fullness and lift.

Recovery from a lip lift is relatively quick and painless. Patients may experience minor swelling and bruising, which generally subsides within one to two weeks. The incision is minimal, allowing for discreet healing, and most patients find they can return to their normal routines within a week or less. As the area heals and settles, the final results typically become visible in about three months, with a permanently enhanced, fuller lip shape.

Ideal Candidates for Lip Lift Surgery

A lip lift can benefit a variety of patients, particularly those who feel that their upper lip is thin, long, or less defined than they’d like. It’s a popular option for older patients looking to address age-related lip thinning and sagging, but it’s also suitable for younger individuals seeking a more balanced lip-to-face ratio without relying on fillers. Ideal candidates should be in good health, have realistic expectations, and be interested in a long-lasting solution to enhance their lip shape.

Benefits and Considerations

One of the primary benefits of a lip lift is its ability to deliver a youthful, lifted appearance without the need for fillers or implants. For patients who are looking for a permanent enhancement rather than temporary volume, a lip lift offers a subtle yet effective option. The procedure allows the upper teeth to be slightly more visible, which can enhance smiles and create a rejuvenated appearance. Unlike fillers, which add volume, a lip lift is a shaping procedure, making it ideal for those who want a more defined lip profile rather than increased lip size.

As with any surgery, there are considerations to keep in mind. Patients may experience mild numbness or tightness as they heal, though these sensations typically resolve over time. The procedure carries a small risk of asymmetry, which is why it is essential to work with a qualified, board-certified facial plastic surgeon, like Dr. Bitner, who is experienced in this procedure.

Is a Lip Lift Right for You?

If you’re considering a subtle yet permanent way to enhance your upper lip, a lip lift may be the right choice. It’s ideal for patients who want a naturally fuller look, without the commitment to repeat filler injections. Consulting with a skilled surgeon can help determine if a lip lift aligns with your aesthetic goals and medical suitability.