Lip Lift

Lip Lift, colloquially termed upper lip lift or subnasal lip lift, constitutes a branch of the plastic surgery discipline. Its objective lies in augmenting the upper lip's aesthetic allure by diminishing the gap between it and the nasal base, thereby fostering a plumper, rejuvenated appearance. This surgical intervention necessitates excising a diminutive skin segment before hoisting the upper lip skyward to unveil a more substantial portion of the rosy vermillion. (1) (2)

Per the American Society of Plastic Surgeons' 2017 statistical compendium, surgical lip magnification witnessed a 5% upswing from 2016, and an impressive 60% rise since the turn of the millennium. Ordinarily, a consummate plastic surgeon—adept in the art of facial cosmetic operations—executes this procedure. Lip Lift boasts enduring outcomes, and its popularity has burgeoned among those endeavoring to refine their lips' visual charm. (3)

Definition and Overview

Lip lift is a surgical procedure that involves lifting and shortening the upper lip to create a more defined and youthful appearance. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia and involves a small incision made in the area between the nose and upper lip. The surgeon will then remove a small amount of tissue and lift the lip to achieve the desired result. 

While lip fillers have been a popular lip augmentation option for many years, lip lift surgery is becoming increasingly popular due to its more permanent results. Lip lift surgery can address a variety of concerns, including a “gummy” smile, elongated upper lip, or a lack of definition in the lips. Unlike lip fillers, which only add volume to the lips, lip lift surgery can improve the overall shape and balance of the lips. 

This surgical procedure can be a great option for individuals who desire a more dramatic change in the appearance of their lips and want to achieve long-lasting results. However, it is important to discuss all options with a qualified surgeon to determine the best course of action for each individual's specific needs and goals.

Procedure

The lip lift procedure typically takes about an hour to complete and is performed on an outpatient basis. The surgeon will begin by administering local anesthesia to the area around the upper lip. Once the anesthesia has taken effect, a small incision will be made in the area between the nose and upper lip. The surgeon will then remove a small amount of tissue and lift the lip to the desired height. The incision is then closed with sutures, and the patient is sent home to begin the healing process.

It is important to choose a qualified and experienced surgeon to perform the lip lift procedure. The surgeon should be able to assess the patient’s individual needs and goals and create a customized treatment plan to achieve the desired result. During the procedure, the surgeon should take great care to ensure that the incision is precise and well-placed to minimize scarring and achieve the desired lift. While the procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis, patients should arrange for someone to drive them home and help them with daily activities for the first few days after the surgery. Following all post-operative instructions provided by the surgeon is crucial for a successful outcome.

Lip Lift Risks and Side Effects

According to Grace Gallagher, a lip lift is a cosmetic surgery that, while enhancing facial features, also poses several potential complications. Opting for a board-certified surgeon is imperative to mitigate these risks.

Potential complications include:

• Scarring that can vary in severity.
• Challenges with wound healing, leading to prominent scars.
• The possibility of blood loss during or following the operation.
• Nerve damage, which may affect facial sensations.
• Allergic reactions to the anesthesia used in the procedure.

These complications emphasize the need for thorough pre-surgical consultations to ensure a clear understanding of the surgery's risks.

Candidates

Individuals who are interested in lip lift surgery should be in good health and have realistic expectations about the results of the procedure. It is important to note that lip lift surgery is not recommended for individuals who smoke, have a history of keloid scarring, or have an active infection in the area. Additionally, patients should be aware that lip lift surgery can result in some scarring, although this is typically minimal and fades over time.

It is important for potential candidates to have a consultation with a qualified surgeon to discuss their medical history, current health status, and any medications they may be taking. The surgeon will also assess the patient’s facial anatomy, including the size and shape of their lips, to determine if they are a good candidate for lip lift surgery. 

It is important for patients to have realistic expectations about the results of the procedure and understand that the final outcome may not be visible until several weeks after the surgery. Patients should also be prepared to follow all post-operative instructions provided by the surgeon to ensure a smooth and successful recovery. Overall, lip lift surgery can be a great option for individuals who desire a more defined and youthful appearance of their lips and have carefully considered all aspects of the procedure.

Post-Procedure

After lip lift surgery, patients may experience some swelling and discomfort in the area. It is important to follow all post-operative instructions provided by the surgeon, including keeping the area clean and avoiding strenuous activity for several days. Most patients are able to return to work within a week or two of the procedure, although it may take several weeks for the swelling to fully subside.

Results

Patients can expect to see an immediate improvement in the appearance of their lips following lip lift surgery. However, it may take several weeks for the swelling to fully subside and the final results to be visible. Most patients report being very satisfied with the results of their lip lift surgery, which can last for several years.

Conclusion

Lip lift surgery is a safe and effective way to enhance the appearance of the lips and achieve a more youthful and defined smile. By understanding the procedure, who is eligible for this surgery, post-operative healing progress, and when you can expect to see results, individuals can make an informed decision about whether lip lift surgery is the right choice for them. As with any surgical procedure, it is important to choose a qualified and experienced surgeon to perform the procedure and follow all post-operative instructions provided.