What is a Lip Lift?
A lip lift is a surgical procedure performed when the distance between the upper lip and nose is longer than aesthetically ideal, or when the lip line has sagged due to aging. This procedure ‑aims to reshape the lip shape and the distance between the upper lip and nose. This results in a more lifted lip, giving the facial expression a more youthful and dynamic appearance. Unlike traditional volume augmentation procedures, a lip lift aims to correct lip position and proportions rather than lip thickness.
In Which Situations Is Lip Lift Performed?
the upper lip ‑and nose is greater than normal, the upper teeth are less visible when smiling, or the lip line sags due to aging. This procedure is also appropriate when lip fillers fail to achieve the desired results or when there are concerns about lip height or shape rather than lip fullness. This type of correction may also be considered when the lips and their surrounding area are not in harmony with the lower face due to facial proportions.
How is Lip Lift Surgery Performed?
Before the procedure, the upper lip- ‑to-nose distance, lip contour, lip muscle condition, and facial expressions are thoroughly evaluated. The surgeon makes a discreet incision under the nose or around the lip, depending on the planned procedure. Through this incision, the lip is repositioned upward and excess tissue is removed. Stitches are generally placed in areas that can be aesthetically concealed. Procedure time and technique vary depending on the patient’s lip structure and the planned changes. Post-operative planning is carried out to preserve lip mobility.
Are There Non-Surgical Lip Lift Methods?
There are alternative techniques that don’t require surgical incisions. Thread lifts, ultrasound-assisted tissue tightening, or filler-assisted lifting can all be used to slightly improve the lip line. While these methods may not provide as pronounced results as surgery, they are less invasive and may require shorter recovery times. The suitability of these methods depends on the individual’s lip structure, the degree of sagging, and their overall expectations.
Who is a Lip Lift Suitable For?
the upper lip ‑and nose, a drooping lip line due to aging, or for whom lip fillers are not a suitable solution for correcting sagging lips. It is also a good candidate for individuals who want their lips to appear more lifted and youthful, are in good general health, and have preserved lip muscle mobility. However, the procedure can yield results that meet expectations for individuals who have lip size issues rather than lip position and proportion.
A More Youthful and Balanced Facial Line with Lip Lift
Lips are a crucial part of facial expression. A lip lift results in a more lifted upper lip, a wider smile, and a metamorphosis of the lower face. This transformation balances the overall facial proportions. This procedure rejuvenates the facial expression and gives a more vibrant appearance, especially when the disproportionate appearance of the lower face is caused by a drooping upper lip.
Lip Lift Recovery Process
In the first few days after surgery, mild swelling and bruising may occur around the upper lip. These symptoms usually subside and return to normal within a few days. Caring for the area where the sutures are located and limiting lip movement for the first few days supports the healing process. Most individuals can return to their daily activities within about a week. It may take several weeks for the lip line to fully settle and the final appearance to be achieved.
Is Lip Lift a Permanent Procedure?
Because a lip lift is performed through a surgical incision, the improved upper lip- ‑to-nose distance can be maintained for many years. However, aging affects all facial tissues, so slight changes may occur around the lips over time. However, with proper planning and well-managed recovery, lip shape can be maintained for a long time and lasting effect.
Will There Be Scars After Lip Lift?
Every surgical procedure has the potential to leave a scar. The incision for a lip lift is usually placed under the nose or close to the natural creases around the lips, minimizing scar visibility. With healing tissue and proper wound care, the scar will fade over time. It is usually unnoticeable from the outside.
Lip Lift Reviews and Before ‑and After Experiences
Individuals who have undergone this procedure frequently report that their lips are more defined, lifted, and more in harmony with their facial proportions. The comments highlight the increased visibility of the upper teeth when smiling, the more vibrant the lip line, and the subtle yet effective improvement of the lip contour. Before-and ‑-after images show a shorter lip-nose distance and a more defined lip shape.
What is the difference between lip lift and fillers?
A lip lift is a surgical procedure that ‑aims to shorten the distance between the upper lip and the nose and elevate the lip line. Fillers, on the other hand, involve injections into the lips to increase lip volume. While fillers make lips appear fuller, a lip lift corrects the shape and position of the lips. While fillers can be a temporary solution, a surgical lift provides a more permanent correction.
Lip Lift Prices 2026
The cost of the procedure varies depending on the technique, the location of the incision, any additional procedures, and the surgeon’s experience. Therefore, rather than providing a definitive price range, each individual’s situation should be considered.
Does Lip Lift Surgery Hurt?
Although it’s a surgical procedure, there’s no pain during this procedure because it’s usually performed under local anesthesia. The area around the lips is completely numbed under the influence of anesthesia, and the patient shouldn’t experience any discomfort during the procedure. After the procedure, you may experience mild pain, tenderness, or a feeling of tightness around the lips. This pain is usually mild and resolves within a few days. If necessary, simple painkillers, prescribed by a doctor, can make the procedure more comfortable. Following these recommendations, such as avoiding excessive facial expressions and avoiding pressure on the lips during the recovery period, will also reduce pain.
How Much Can the Upper Lip Distance Be Shortened?
In lip lift surgery, which is planned to suit facial proportions, the distance between the upper lip and the base of the nose is reduced by a certain amount, depending on the individual’s current physique. This distance is usually between 1 and 5 millimeters, but this amount can vary from person to person. The primary goal is to achieve a natural and balanced aesthetic appearance without bringing the lip line too close to the nose. Because excessive shortening can affect lip function, a personalized plan must be tailored to each individual’s facial proportions. The resulting reduction results in greater tooth visibility in the smile, a more lifted lip shape, and a more youthful appearance in the lower face.
Does Lip Lift Affect Speech?
During the recovery period, you may experience temporary limited movement, mild swelling, and a feeling of tightness in the lip area. This may only slightly affect speech function. However, this effect is not permanent and usually returns to normal within a few days. Because surgical techniques are performed to preserve lip muscle structure and functional areas, no long-term adverse effects on speech are expected. A brief period of adaptation may be required for activities such as closing the lips, smiling, or articulating letters clearly. Once this period is complete, lip function fully returns, and speech continues naturally.
When to Wear Makeup After a Lip Lift?
It is not recommended to apply makeup around the lips for the first week after surgery. This period is necessary to allow the suture line to heal and the tissues to fully heal. After the first week, after checking the healing process, light makeup can be applied to the lips. However, until the suture line is completely healed, it is important to avoid harsh or irritating cosmetics. Because the skin may be more sensitive when applying makeup after a lip lift, it is important to pay attention to the ingredients and choose hypoallergenic products. Once the healing process is complete, you can return to your normal makeup routine, and because the lip contour becomes more defined, makeup applications can yield more aesthetically pleasing results.
Is a Lip Lift Suitable for Everyone?
This procedure is particularly ‑suitable for individuals with a long upper lip-to-nose distance, inadequate upper teeth during smiling, or those whose lip shape has diminished with aging. However, because each individual’s facial anatomy, skin structure, and expectations are different, it would be inaccurate to say that a lip lift is suitable for everyone. Excessively thin lips, skin that is not suitable for surgery, or certain health conditions that affect healing capacity may limit the suitability of the procedure. Similarly, unrealistic aesthetic expectations can negatively impact the success of the procedure. Therefore, decisions should be made after a personal evaluation and a personalized plan should be developed for each individual.