A Lip Lift is a cosmetic procedure designed to reduce the distance between the nose and the upper lip, resulting in a more defined and fuller appearance of the lips that looks entirely natural.
Benefits of a Lip Lift
This procedure rejuvenates the lips, giving them a plumper, more youthful appearance without the use of hyaluronic fillers or fat transfer. The benefits include:
- Smoothing out wrinkles and lifting sagging lips that come with age.
- Lifting the corners of the lips, transforming a ”sad” look into a more cheerful expression.
Enhancing lip fullness for a more attractive look.
Ideal Candidates
The ideal candidate for a Lip Lift is someone with a pronounced space between the nose and the upper lip, possibly having thin lips. This can include younger individuals, not just those experiencing aging effects. Candidates can also include:
- Those with noticeable lip asymmetry.
- People who want their teeth to be more visible when speaking or smiling.
- Anyone seeking more permanent and natural-looking results.
Types of Lip Lift Procedures
There are several techniques for performing a Lip Lift, with the most popular being:
- Bullhorn (Subnasal) Lip Lift: Involves a single incision under the nose, lifting the center and corners of the lips.
- Central Lip Lift: This also involves an incision under the nose but only lifts the central part of the lip, enhancing the cupid’s bow.
- Corner Lip Lift: Similar to the central lift but focuses on lifting the corners to eliminate a ”sad” look.
- Direct (Gullwing) Lip Lift: An incision along the upper lip’s edge to create a more defined and pronounced lip (rarely used today).
Italian Lip Lift: The most subtle method, using two tiny incisions under each nostril to discreetly lift the lip edges without affecting the central part.
Procedure and Recovery
The first step is a consultation to define the expectations and possibilities of the procedure. It’s advised to avoid alcohol and smoking a few days before surgery. The operation is usually performed under local anesthesia, during which the patient is awake but feels no pain. If combined with another procedure or needed for specific reasons, it can be done under different anesthesia. The surgery typically takes less than an hour.
Post-surgery, patients go home the same day. Recovery recommendations include:
- Sleeping on the back.
- Limiting talking.
- Eating soft foods.
Swelling and tightness are common during recovery. Heavy tasks and exercise should be avoided for two weeks, but normal daily activities can continue. Swelling and bruising start to subside after about a week and completely resolve in 4-6 weeks. The tight feeling may persist for up to six months. Scars are minimal, hidden in the natural creases under the nose, and fade over time.
Why Choose a Lip Lift and Longevity of Results
The results of a Lip Lift are permanent, providing a natural, youthful look. The lips appear fuller, enhancing the smile and boosting confidence. If symmetry, balance, and proportion were the goals, these could become permanent features.
While hyaluronic fillers provide temporary results, needing repetition every 12-18 months, a Lip Lift offers lasting benefits. However, continued use of fillers after a Lip Lift can further enhance the shape and fullness of the lips.