Lip lift surgery has been around for several decades. But it has gained popularity recently as techniques for this cosmetic procedure have become more advanced.
A surgical lip lift is designed to enhance the appearance of your lips and overall facial structure. Unlike temporary lip augmentation with fillers or implants which carry risk of complications, a lip lift offers a permanent and safe solution to achieve a more youthful, balanced lip shape.
If you’ve ever considered enhancing your upper lip or addressing issues such as thin lips or elongated philtrum, this procedure could be ideal for you.
This comprehensive guide will delve into everything you need to know about lip lift surgery. We’ll explore different techniques, why it has become a go-to treatment for patients seeking impactful results, and why you may be a great candidate.
What is a Lip Lift (Upper Lip Lift)?
A lip lift is a surgical procedure aimed at shortening the distance between the upper lip and the base of the nose, also known as the philtrum.
This subtle adjustment enhances the appearance of the upper lip by increasing its height and exposing more of the vermilion (the pink part of the lip) and in many cases your upper teeth.
Unlike lip fillers, which add volume, a lip lift redefines the natural shape of the lips and mouth area, offering a permanent enhancement.
It’s an ideal treatment for individuals seeking a balanced lip-to-face ratio, improved lip volume, and a more youthful appearance and smile.
The Evolution of Lip Lift Surgery
Over the years, lip lift surgery has evolved considerably. Significant advances in surgical techniques have made outcomes safer and more favourable, and anaesthesia options now include local anaesthetic.
In the past, traditional methods often left noticeable scars or overly dramatic results. Today, however, procedures such as the subnasal bullhorn lip lift and central lip lift are more refined, offering natural-looking results with minimal scarring.
Surgeons in London now utilise a modified lip lift technique, which not only improve the aesthetic outcome but also ensure a quicker recovery period and less post-operative discomfort.
These advances make the procedure more appealing to patients who prioritise subtlety and refinement to the nose and lip.
Different Types of Lip Lift Procedures
Bullhorn Lip Lift
One of the most common and effective techniques, the bullhorn lip lift involves making an incision at the base of the nose. This subnasal lip lift removes a small strip of skin to lift the upper lip, creating a more prominent and youthful appearance. The bullhorn lip lift is ideal for patients who want a subtle yet noticeable improvement in lip height.
Central Lip Lift
The central lip lift focuses on the centre of the upper lip, enhancing the cupid’s bow and creating a balanced lip shape. This procedure is particularly beneficial for individuals with an elongated philtrum or a flattened upper lip. It’s often combined with other facial procedures for a more harmonious result.
Corner Lip Lift
A corner lip lift targets the edges of the lips, correcting downturned corners that can give a tired or unhappy appearance. By lifting the corners of the mouth, this procedure enhances the overall facial expression, making it look more inviting and youthful.
Direct Lip Lift
Unlike other techniques, the direct lip lift makes an incision directly on the upper lip. While this method is less common due to the visibility of scars, it remains a viable option for certain patients, particularly those seeking significant reshaping of the upper lip.
Who is a Candidate for Lip Lift Surgery?
Lip lift surgery is suitable for individuals looking to address specific concerns about their lips and overall facial structure. Ideal candidates include those with an elongated philtrum, thin lips, or a desire for a permanent lip enhancement alternative to lip fillers.
It’s also a popular choice for patients experiencing age-related changes, such as loss of lip volume or a drooping upper lip. Men and women alike can benefit from this procedure, especially when seeking to enhance their facial proportions and create a more balanced lip-to-nose ratio.
Benefits of Lip Lift Surgery
Lip lift surgery offers numerous benefits, making it a sought-after cosmetic procedure.
- It enhances the natural shape and volume of the lips without the need for repeated dermal fillers
- Provides a more youthful appearance to overall facial features, and improves facial harmony.
- Allows for better lipstick application, as the enhanced vermilion border creates a more defined lip shape.
- The results are permanent, saving patients the time and cost associated with temporary treatments.
Combining Lip Lift with Other Procedures
If you’re seeking comprehensive facial rejuvenation, a lip lift can be combined with other treatments such as a facelift or neck lift. This combination approach addresses multiple areas of the face, ensuring a cohesive and natural-looking outcome.
For example, pairing a subnasal bullhorn lip lift with a facelift enhances the overall symmetry and youthfulness of the face. Similarly, combining the procedure with chin augmentation or fat transfer can further refine the facial profile.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Lip lift surgery is typically performed under local anaesthesia, ensuring a comfortable experience for the patient. During the procedure, your plastic surgeon will make precise incisions based on the chosen technique.
Whether it’s a bullhorn lip lift, central lip lift, or corner lip lift, excess skin is removed, and the incisions are carefully closed to minimise scarring. The entire procedure usually takes about one to two hours, depending on the complexity.
Recovery and Aftercare
The full recovery period for a lip lift is relatively short, with most patients resuming normal activities within a week. Mild swelling and bruising are common during the first few days, but these symptoms subside quickly.
To ensure optimal results, patients should follow their surgeon’s aftercare instructions, which may include avoiding excessive moving of your lips and mouth for the first week, strenuous activities and applying prescribed ointments to the incision site.
The scars are typically well-hidden under the natural folds of the nose, and final results become visible within a few weeks as the swelling subsides.
Lip Lift Results: What You Can Expect
The results of a lip lift are both immediate and long-lasting. Patients often notice an enhanced upper lip, improved facial proportions, and a more youthful appearance shortly after the procedure.
The refined shape of the top lip will complement your overall facial structure, creating a balanced and harmonious look. Whether you opt for a bullhorn lip lift, central lip lift, or corner lip lift, the outcome will be tailored to suit your unique facial anatomy and aesthetic goals.
The Cost of Lip Lift Surgery
The cost of lip lift surgery varies depending on the complexity of the procedure and the expertise of the surgeon. In London, prices typically range from £3,000 to £5,000, which may include consultation fees, anaesthesia, and post-operative care.
Choosing the Right Treatment for You
Lip lift surgery is a versatile and transformative procedure that can address a wide range of aesthetic concerns. Whether you’re looking to correct age-related changes, enhance your facial proportions, or achieve a more balanced lip shape, this treatment offers a personalised solution to meet your needs.
With advancements in surgical techniques and aftercare, achieving natural-looking, long-lasting results has never been easier.
