A lip lift is a surgical procedure designed to enhance the appearance of the upper lip by shortening the distance between the nose and the lip’s edge, resulting in a fuller, more youthful and balanced smile. This subtle yet impactful surgery can restore lip proportion, improve lip shape, and increase visible pink lip tissue without the need for fillers.
Why Consider a Lip Lift?
As we age, the upper lip tends to lengthen and thin, and the distance between the nose and lip can increase, making the lips appear less youthful or less defined. A lip lift:
- Reveals more of the natural pink part of the upper lip, enhancing fullness and smile attractiveness
- Shortens the space between the nose and lip for a refreshed and balanced facial proportion
- Improves the curvature and shape of the lip
- Offers a permanent solution compared to temporary injectable fillers
- Can be combined with other procedures such as lip augmentation, rhinoplasty or facelift for comprehensive facial rejuvenation
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Ideal candidates for a lip lift are healthy individuals who:
- Are bothered by a long upper lip or thin, under-projected lips
- Desire a natural-looking enhancement without repeated filler injections
- Have realistic expectations about the surgical results
- Do not smoke or are willing to quit before and after surgery to ensure proper healing
How Is Lip Lift Surgery Performed?
Lip lift surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia with a small injection to numb the area, ensuring your comfort throughout the procedure. If the lip lift is combined with other facial surgeries, general anesthesia or sedation may be used.
The most common approach, called the “bullhorn” or subnasal lip lift, involves making a small, discreet incision just beneath the base of the nose. Dr. Montes carefully removes a precise strip of skin to lift the upper lip, shortening the distance between the nose and lip and enhancing the natural fullness and shape.
The incision is then closed with fine sutures, which will need to be removed during a follow-up visit about one week after surgery.
What To Expect During Recovery
- Days 1–3: Expect swelling, bruising and mild discomfort around the upper lip and nose area. Ice packs and prescribed pain medication can help manage symptoms. Avoid strenuous activity and keep your head elevated as much as possible.
- Days 4–7: Swelling and bruising begin to subside. Sutures will be removed around day 7. You may notice some tightness or numbness around the incision site. By the end of this week, most patients can return to work and light social activities.
- Weeks 2–3: Continued improvement in swelling and healing. The incision line may still be pink but will gradually fade. You can resume more vigorous activities, but should still protect your healing skin from direct sun exposure.
- 1–3 Months: The incision line matures and softens, becoming less noticeable over time. Final results emerge, revealing a natural, youthful upper lip with improved shape and proportion.
During your recovery, Dr. Montes will provide detailed care instructions to promote optimal healing and minimize scarring.
Risks and Considerations
As with any surgery, lip lift carries risks, including:
- Scarring, which is generally well hidden beneath the nose
- Infection
- Asymmetry or irregularities in lip shape
- Temporary numbness or altered sensation
- Overcorrection or under correction, which may require revision
Choosing a skilled, board-certified facial plastic surgeon like Dr. Carolyn Montes helps minimize risks and optimize outcomes.
Why Choose Dr. Carolyn Montes for Your Lip Lift?
With specialized training in facial plastic surgery and a focus on natural, balanced results, Dr. Carolyn Montes offers expert care tailored to your unique facial anatomy and aesthetic goals. Her meticulous approach ensures that your lip lift enhances your smile with elegance and subtlety, preserving your natural expression.
Ready To Rejuvenate Your Smile with A Lip Lift?
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Montes to learn if this procedure is right for you.
Call San Diego ENT at (858) 926-7010 for more information or to schedule an appointment.