Lip lift surgery stands out as an innovative method in aesthetic surgery. This procedure elevates the position of the upper lip to create an aesthetic appearance. In particular, removing a small piece of skin from beneath the nose makes the lips appear fuller. In addition, the corners of the lips can be reshaped during the same operation. Performed under local anaesthesia, the procedure offers patients a comfortable experience. The post-treatment recovery period is typically rapid, allowing patients to regain a natural, aesthetic look in a short time. This procedure occupies an important place in lip aesthetics.
| Purpose of the Surgery | To shorten the distance between the nose and the lip so that the upper lip appears more lifted and fuller; to define the lip contour and rejuvenate the smile line. It is especially preferred for individuals with thinning or sagging lips. |
| Indications | Can be applied when the distance between the nose and the lip is long, when filler procedures do not provide a lasting solution, or when the lips are naturally thin. |
| Pre-operative Preparation | The patient’s general health is assessed before surgery. Blood-thinning medications should be discontinued and smoking stopped. Detailed instructions are given to support the postoperative healing process. |
| Surgical Technique | The operation is usually performed under local anaesthesia and lasts about one hour. Excess skin is removed via incisions made between the nasal base and the upper lip, and the upper lip is lifted. Incisions are closed carefully so that the scar remains minimal and hidden close to the nasal base. |
| Recovery Process | Mild swelling and bruising may occur during the first few days. Sutures are usually removed within 5–7 days. Full healing and settling of the lip contour may take about 2–4 weeks. During this time, careful care of the lip area is required. |
| Post-operative Care | The suture area should be kept clean, and ointments or creams recommended by the doctor should be used. Movements that strain the lips, bending forward, and very hot drinks should be avoided. |
| Complications | Risks include infection, bleeding, asymmetry or a permanent scar. However, these risks can be minimised with an experienced surgeon. |
| Alternative Treatment Options | Temporary and minimally invasive methods such as lip fillers or lip implants can be used to increase lip volume; however, a lip lift offers a more permanent solution. |
Table of Content
Advantages and Disadvantages of Lip Lift Surgery
Lip lift surgery offers a permanent way to achieve fuller lips without the need for temporary fillers. The use of local anaesthesia makes the procedure comfortable for the patient. Moreover, because this method lifts the lips rather than adding volume, it avoids the artificial look sometimes caused by fillers. The main advantages include improving lip shape, achieving better harmony with other facial features, and providing a youthful expression.
- Provides permanently fuller lips.
- Easily performed under local anaesthesia.
- Does not create an artificial appearance.
- Gives the face balanced and youthful proportions.
On the other hand, the procedure has some disadvantages. If too much skin is removed, it can be difficult to reverse. If the upper teeth are not aesthetically ideal, this should be considered beforehand. As with any surgical procedure, a small scar will remain, although it can usually be improved with laser therapy.
- Removing too much skin makes reversal difficult.
- Alternative methods are advisable if the upper teeth are not aesthetically pleasing.
- A minimal scar is inevitable.
Effects and Longevity of Lip Lift Surgery
After a lip lift, patients notice immediate fullness in the lips. Swelling and bruising during the recovery period are normal parts of healing and generally subside completely within three months as scars mature.
- Swelling and bruising subside in about three weeks.
- Scar maturation occurs in about one month.
Although a lip lift offers long-lasting results, the area is not immune to the natural ageing process. With proper care, however, the aesthetic improvements remain satisfying for many years, which explains the procedure’s popularity.
Suitable Candidates for Lip Lift Surgery
A lip lift is ideal for individuals seeking a more attractive smile when the distance between the nose and upper lip is longer than desired. The procedure provides fuller, more appealing lips and creates balanced facial symmetry. Performed under local anaesthesia, it usually takes about an hour and involves a rapid recovery. Suitable candidates include:
- Those who want to shorten the distance between the lip and the nose.
- Individuals unsatisfied with the results of fillers.
- People who wish to accentuate their lips in a natural way.
- Those seeking a younger look by counteracting ageing effects.
- Individuals looking for a permanent solution to avoid repeated filler costs.
Variety of Lip Lift Techniques
Upper-lip lift surgery is popular in aesthetic practice, designed to give the lips a younger and fuller appearance. Various techniques are applied according to patient needs and aesthetic goals. The Bullhorn lip lift is the most frequently chosen method, removing skin just beneath and to the sides of the nostrils.
- Bullhorn Lip Lift
- Central Lip Lift
- Corners of the Mouth Lift
- Gullwing Lip Lift
Each technique enhances the overall aesthetics of the lips and face. Performed under local anaesthesia, these procedures offer minimal discomfort and quick recovery. The choice of method depends on the patient’s existing lip anatomy and desired outcome.
What Happens During the Lip Lift Surgery Process
Lip lift surgery is a detailed procedure aimed at improving aesthetic appearance. Before the operation, the surgeon draws a specific shape beneath the nostrils to guide skin removal and enhance lip fullness. The primary steps include:
- Application of local anaesthesia with lidocaine,
- Skin incision and excision,
- Securing and suturing the excised skin.
The surgeon carefully excises the marked skin and lifts the upper lip, achieving a shorter upper-lip length. The procedure usually takes about one hour and is pain-free for the patient. Skillful execution restores natural lip appearance while improving symmetry and proportion.
Differences Between Lip Fillers and Lip Lift
Though often confused, lip fillers and lip lifts differ significantly in technique and result. Lip fillers aim to increase lip volume by injecting various filler substances, making the lips fuller and more prominent. In contrast, a lip lift focuses on improving the aesthetic position of the upper lip:
- The distance between the upper lip and the nose tip is shortened.
- The philtral column becomes more pronounced.
A lip lift does not directly add volume; those seeking fuller lips may still require additional fillers. While a lip lift enhances lip contour, fillers boost lip volume. Both procedures improve lip aesthetics but through different approaches.
Lip Aesthetic Application Methods and Recovery Process
Lip lifting significantly contributes to facial beauty, with technique selection tailored to facial anatomy and aesthetic expectations. The popular Bullhorn technique shortens the distance between the nose and upper lip via an incision under the nose, hiding the scar at the nasal base. Alternatives include the central lip lift (raising only the upper lip), the corner lip lift (correcting drooping lip corners), and the Gullwing lip lift (enhancing thin lips by refining the vermilion border).
Operation time is about one hour under local anaesthesia; recovery varies but is generally complete within a few months. Post-surgery, changes are immediately noticeable, such as a defined Cupid’s bow and greater upper-tooth show, enhancing overall facial aesthetics.
What Are the Average 2025 Lip Lift Surgery Prices?
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Reviews from Those Who Had Lip Lift Surgery
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FAQ
Is lip lift surgery permanent?
Lip lift surgery provides permanent results. Although age-related changes may occur over time, the aesthetic improvement is long-lasting, and repeat procedures are rarely necessary. Longevity can vary according to lifestyle and genetics.
How long does a lip lift take to heal?
The recovery period typically lasts six to eight weeks. Swelling and bruising begin to subside within the first week and usually disappear completely by the end of the first month. Some tightness may persist for a few months.
How is a lip lift performed?
Under local anaesthesia, the surgeon removes excess skin between the nasal base and the upper lip through a carefully planned incision, making the upper lip more prominent. After excision, the area is sutured with small stitches that are removed after a few days or dissolve on their own. The procedure usually lasts 15–20 minutes, depending on technique and complexity.
Will a lip lift leave a scar?
A scar generally remains, but surgeons place incisions strategically in the natural folds beneath the nose to keep them discreet. With proper after-care, scars fade over time and often blend with natural skin tone. Individual healing and surgical technique significantly influence scar visibility.
How can lip lift suture marks fade?
Regular use of the doctor’s recommended wound-care products, adequate hydration and a healthy diet support healing. Advanced wound-care techniques and certain medical creams boost collagen production, helping scars fade. Protecting the area from the sun during healing also prevents permanent scarring.
Is a lip lift done under general anaesthesia?
A lip lift is usually performed under local anaesthesia, though general anaesthesia may be chosen depending on patient needs and medical advice.
Which doctor performs a lip lift?
Lip lift surgery is performed by ENT specialists who are trained in facial aesthetic and functional procedures, possessing the necessary expertise to improve both appearance and function.
