All About Lip Lifts: What It Is and Who It’s For

A lip lift is a popular cosmetic procedure designed to enhance the shape and position of the lips, creating a more youthful and defined smile. Unlike lip fillers, which add volume, a lip lift shortens the space between the upper lip and the nose, giving the upper lip a lifted appearance. At VIVE Plastic Surgery, we specialize in this subtle yet transformative procedure that helps patients achieve natural, long-lasting results. In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about lip lifts, including how the procedure works and who it’s ideal for.


1. What is a Lip Lift?

A lip lift is a surgical procedure that reshapes the upper lip by shortening the distance between the base of the nose and the top of the lip. This creates a more prominent, youthful lip appearance without adding volume.

How the Procedure Works:

  • The surgeon makes a small incision just under the base of the nose (often called a “bullhorn incision”).
  • A small amount of skin is removed, lifting the upper lip and exposing more of the pink lip tissue.
  • The incisions are closed carefully, leaving minimal scarring hidden under the nose.

The result is a lifted upper lip that gives the appearance of fuller lips, a more defined cupid’s bow, and an enhanced smile. Unlike temporary fillers, the results of a lip lift are permanent.


2. Types of Lip Lifts

There are several variations of lip lift procedures, each designed to achieve different aesthetic goals. The most common type is the bullhorn lip lift, but here are a few other options:

  • Direct Lip Lift: This technique removes skin directly above the upper lip, making the lip appear fuller. It’s less common due to more visible scarring.
  • Subnasal Bullhorn Lift: The most common technique, it involves making an incision at the base of the nose, lifting the central part of the lip for a more pronounced shape.
  • Corner Lip Lift: For patients with downturned lips, this lift raises the outer corners of the lips to create a more pleasant, smiling appearance.

Your surgeon will recommend the best technique based on your anatomy and aesthetic goals.


3. Who is a Good Candidate for a Lip Lift?

A lip lift is suitable for people who want to enhance the appearance of their lips without the use of fillers or who are looking for more permanent results. It’s also ideal for those seeking to improve the balance and proportion of their facial features.

You may be a good candidate if:

  • You have a long space between the base of your nose and the top of your upper lip.
  • Your upper lip covers too much of your teeth when you smile, and you’d like a more balanced smile.
  • You desire a more defined cupid’s bow and fuller-looking lips.
  • You prefer a permanent solution over temporary fillers.
  • You want a subtle enhancement without adding volume to your lips.

A lip lift is typically recommended for patients who are in good health, do not smoke, and have realistic expectations for their results.


4. Lip Lift vs. Lip Fillers

Both lip lifts and lip fillers are designed to improve the appearance of the lips, but they work in different ways and are suited for different needs.

Lip Lift:

  • Effect: Lifts the upper lip, shortening the distance between the nose and lip for a more youthful look.
  • Longevity: Permanent results.
  • Ideal For: Individuals looking for a more defined upper lip and those with elongated space between the upper lip and nose.

Lip Fillers:

  • Effect: Adds volume to the lips using injectable fillers like hyaluronic acid (HA), creating a plumper look.
  • Longevity: Temporary results, lasting 6-12 months.
  • Ideal For: Individuals looking for fuller lips without surgery, or those seeking a temporary solution.

For patients with a long philtrum (the space between the nose and upper lip), a lip lift offers more dramatic and permanent results than fillers.


5. What to Expect During the Procedure

A lip lift is performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia, meaning you’ll be awake but won’t feel pain. The surgery usually takes about 1-2 hours, depending on the technique used.

Step-by-Step Overview:

  1. Consultation: Your surgeon will examine your facial structure and discuss your desired outcome to determine the best lip lift technique for you.
  2. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is applied to numb the area.
  3. Incision: A small incision is made just under the nose, and a strip of skin is removed to lift the upper lip.
  4. Closure: The incision is carefully stitched, leaving minimal scarring that typically fades over time.

Most patients can return home the same day after surgery.


6. Lip Lift Recovery

Recovery from a lip lift is relatively quick, with most patients able to return to their normal activities within a week. Here’s what to expect during your recovery:

  • Swelling and bruising: It’s normal to experience swelling and some bruising around the upper lip and nose. This should subside within a week.
  • Minimal discomfort: Any pain can typically be managed with over-the-counter medications. Your surgeon may also prescribe medication to help with discomfort.
  • Stitches: Stitches are usually removed within 5-7 days after surgery, depending on the healing process.
  • Avoid strenuous activity: You’ll need to avoid heavy physical activity for at least two weeks, and follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions to ensure proper healing.
  • Scarring: Scarring is minimal and typically fades within a few months. The incision is discreetly placed under the base of the nose.

7. Results and Long-Term Care

Once the swelling subsides, you’ll begin to see the full results of your lip lift, which typically takes about 1-2 months. The lips will appear more defined, and your smile will have a more youthful, balanced appearance.

Long-Term Care Tips:

  • Protect your lips and skin from the sun to promote better healing and reduce the appearance of scars.
  • Follow a proper skincare routine as recommended by your surgeon to maintain the results.
  • Since the results are permanent, no further treatments will be required unless you desire additional refinement.

Conclusion

A lip lift offers a permanent solution for those seeking a more defined, youthful smile without adding volume through fillers. It’s an ideal option for individuals looking to shorten the space between their nose and upper lip and enhance the natural contours of their face. At VIVE Plastic Surgery, our skilled surgeons specialize in these procedures, delivering natural, long-lasting results that enhance your overall appearance. If you’re considering a lip lift, schedule a consultation today to learn more about how this transformative procedure can help you achieve your aesthetic goals.