Rhinoplasty

Lip Lift Surgery

Posted on by Dr. Alev Camcıoğlu

Lip Lift Surgery offers an effective solution for patients seeking a more balanced and youthful appearance in facial aesthetics. This surgical procedure shortens the distance between the nose and the upper lip, making the lips more prominent and increasing the visibility of the upper teeth. One of the most commonly used methods, the subnasal “bullhorn” technique, is performed by removing a strip of skin from under the nose. Considered a minimally invasive procedure, this method provides quick recovery and long-term results. Proper patient selection and an experienced surgeon are critical for successful outcomes.

What Is Lip Lift Surgery?

The development of lip aesthetics and surgical methods dates back a long time for both aesthetic and reconstructive purposes. The first examples of lip lift surgeries were performed in the early 20th century to correct congenital deformities and traumatic injuries. However, it was in the second half of the 20th century that such procedures began to be carried out for aesthetic purposes. In 1971, the subnasal upper lip lift method introduced by Cardosa and Sperli became one of the first significant milestones in this field of aesthetic surgery. This technique laid the foundation for modern methods aimed at improving upper lip aesthetics.

The 1980s marked a period of significant advances in lip aesthetics. Surgical techniques targeting issues such as lengthening of the upper lip and reduced visibility of the vermilion due to aging were developed during this time. In their 1981 publications, Rozner and Isaacs emphasized the impact of the subnasal lip lift procedure on overall facial rejuvenation and examined the effectiveness of this technique in detail. Around the same time, Austin and Fanous developed new direct excision techniques to correct thin lips and increase the visibility of the vermilion. These methods laid the groundwork for modern lip lift surgeries and enhanced the impact of aesthetic surgery on lip proportions.

The diversification of surgical techniques has made it possible to achieve different aesthetic goals. The subnasal “bullhorn” method, which involves removing skin under the nose, has been preferred to hide scars while shortening the philtrum. On the other hand, direct lip lift and corner lip lift techniques aim to create more defined lips and balanced facial expressions. V-Y lip advancement, notable for adding volume without leaving external scars, also stands out for its advantages.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Lip Lift Surgery?

Lip lift surgery is a suitable option for patients who want a noticeable improvement in the upper lip and overall facial aesthetics. This procedure offers successful results, particularly for patients presenting with aesthetic concerns caused by certain anatomical or age-related changes. The following conditions define the patient groups for whom this surgery is appropriate:

  • Elongated Philtrum:

Having a distance between the upper lip and the nose that is longer than normal can disrupt facial balance and create an older appearance. Especially if the philtrum length exceeds 12–15 mm in women or 15–18 mm in men, this surgery is ideal for improving facial proportions.

  • Insufficient Tooth Visibility:

The upper teeth not being visible, especially at rest or when smiling, can negatively affect facial aesthetics. A lip lift raises the upper lip, enhancing tooth visibility and creating a more youthful look.

  • Thin or Concave Upper Lip:

Thinning and loss of volume in the upper lip due to aging can negatively affect lip aesthetics. A lip lift procedure everts the lip outward, resulting in a fuller and more aesthetic appearance.

  • Less Pronounced Cupid’s Bow and Lip Lines:

Issues such as a poorly defined Cupid’s bow or narrowing of the vermilion can detract from lip aesthetics. This surgery defines the lip lines, offering a more aesthetic look.

  • Age-Related Changes:

Age-related changes such as increased upper lip length and thinning of the vermilion can be effectively corrected with this surgery.

  • Dissatisfaction with Non-Surgical Methods:

Patients who are not satisfied with non-surgical methods like fillers or who desire a more permanent solution can benefit from lip lift surgery.

  • Aesthetic Purposes:

Some patients may choose this procedure for a younger and more aesthetic appearance, even if they do not have a distinct anatomical issue.

Who Is Not a Good Candidate for Lip Lift Surgery?

Lip lift surgery is an effective procedure that offers significant improvement in facial aesthetics. However, not every patient is suitable for this operation. Certain absolute and relative contraindications must be considered for the surgery to be performed successfully and to minimize the risk of complications.

  • Absolute Contraindications:

Patients with active oral or perioral infections are not suitable for this procedure. For example, infections such as herpes simplex can adversely affect wound healing and potentially spread. Similarly, uncontrolled systemic conditions like diabetes or hypertension can increase surgical risks and complicate the recovery process. Individuals with bleeding disorders or those on anticoagulant therapy are at higher risk of excessive bleeding during surgery, so these conditions must be carefully evaluated. Patients with allergies to local anesthetics or the medications used must also undergo thorough examination and, if necessary, testing before the procedure.

  • Relative Contraindications:

If the lip length is shorter than 18 mm, there may not be enough tissue for the procedure, making it difficult to achieve the desired aesthetic results. Also, patients prone to hypertrophic scarring or keloids may develop scars that could negatively affect the postoperative aesthetic appearance. If the corners of the mouth are excessively turned downward, a lip lift procedure alone may be insufficient, and additional interventions may be required.

For patients who smoke, it is crucial to stop nicotine use before and after surgery. Nicotine impairs wound healing and increases the risk of complications. Additionally, individuals who have had previous lip surgery or experienced trauma in the lip area require careful anatomical evaluation by the surgeon. Extreme dental visibility or maxillary excess in the dental and skeletal structure can also negatively affect surgical outcomes.

How Is Lip Lift Surgery Performed?

Lip lift surgery is frequently preferred to improve facial aesthetics and achieve a more youthful appearance. This procedure shortens the distance between the upper lip and the nose, aiming to give the lips a more defined and aesthetic structure. The surgery is generally planned according to the patient’s anatomical structure and expectations.

A thorough evaluation is conducted before the procedure. At this stage, the patient’s medical history is reviewed, and facial proportions are carefully analyzed. Factors such as upper teeth visibility (dental show), lip fullness, and philtrum length are taken into account. Photos are taken from various angles so that postoperative changes can be better evaluated. This is a key part of the surgical plan.

Several different techniques may be used in lip lift surgery. Each technique is selected based on the patient’s needs and the desired outcomes.

  • Subnasal Bullhorn Lift: A curved incision is made at the base of the nose, and skin is removed, anchoring the upper lip upward. This method shortens the philtrum and provides a natural look.
  • Direct Lip Lift: Incisions are made along the upper lip border, and skin is removed to lift the lip upward. It is effective in increasing lip fullness.
  • Corner Lip Lift: Small incisions are made at the corners of the mouth to lift them. This technique is preferred for patients with downward-turned mouth corners.
  • Italian Lip Lift: Small incisions are made under the nostrils to slightly lift the lip. It is suitable for those wanting minimal change.

The surgery is generally performed under local anesthesia. During the procedure, the surgeon makes incisions along predetermined lines, removes the necessary amount of skin, and repositions the tissues. The incisions are closed with fine sutures, and bandaging is applied if necessary. Patients are usually discharged on the same day after the surgery.

What Are the Side Effects of Lip Lift Surgery?

Although lip lift surgery is generally considered safe, like any surgical procedure, it carries some side effects and risks of complications. While these side effects are usually mild and temporary, it is important for patients to be informed. Common postoperative occurrences include swelling, redness, bruising, and mild pain. These symptoms are part of the body’s natural response to surgery and typically subside within a few weeks. Pain relief medications prescribed by your doctor can increase your comfort during this period.

Temporary numbness may occur around the upper lip or nearby areas if the nerves are affected during surgery. This usually resolves within a few weeks, but recovery can vary from person to person. Scarring is also a significant concern. Incisions made in the subnasal area are generally concealed within natural creases, but some patients may develop hypertrophic or keloid scars. This condition is linked to genetic predisposition.

Asymmetry is an inherent challenge in surgical procedures. Minor imbalances can result from slight differences in tissue removal or variations in the healing process. In some cases, a revision surgery may be needed. Although rare, there is a risk of infection. Following postoperative instructions and maintaining proper wound hygiene greatly reduces this risk. If you notice signs of infection, you should seek medical attention immediately.

Dehiscence, which is the reopening of the surgical site, is a rare complication. It can occur due to factors such as trauma or infection and can delay healing. In addition, in rare cases, patients may experience temporary issues with lip movement or complications like hematoma (accumulation of blood).

How Successful Is Lip Lift Surgery?

Lip lift surgery is generally considered a successful and long-lasting procedure in terms of aesthetic outcomes and patient satisfaction. Most patients report improvements in facial proportions, a more defined appearance of the upper lip, and a younger expression following the procedure. A systematic review by Zhao et al. (2023) indicates that both surgical and non-surgical lip lift techniques generally produce positive outcomes with few serious complaints. However, it is also noted that surgical methods are longer-lasting compared to non-surgical techniques.

One of the most common applications, the subnasal lip lift procedure, involves removing a thin strip of skin from under the nose and lifting the upper lip upward. This technique provides both aesthetic and functional improvements, increasing patient satisfaction. A study by Júnior et al. (2022) shows that patient satisfaction is high with this method, and aesthetic improvements often last for years. These findings demonstrate the procedure’s success.

Complication rates are generally low, but the surgery is not entirely without risk. Research by San Miguel Moragas et al. (2014) reports complication rates of 7.23%. Common complications include scarring, asymmetric results, and aesthetically unsatisfactory outcomes. These issues are usually associated with errors made by inexperienced surgeons. Proper patient selection and careful application of surgical techniques significantly reduce these risks.

How to Prepare for Lip Lift Surgery?

When preparing for lip lift surgery, following certain steps is crucial for a smooth and safe surgical process. First, a comprehensive consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon lays the groundwork for the procedure. During this meeting, the surgeon evaluates your facial anatomy and conducts a detailed analysis of your aesthetic goals. Additionally, your overall health status and medical history are reviewed, including any medications you take, allergies, and previous surgeries. If necessary, additional tests like blood work and an electrocardiogram (ECG) may be requested. These assessments are critical to ensuring that the surgery is both safe and effective.

Before the surgery, you should discontinue any medications and supplements that could increase bleeding risk. Aspirin, ibuprofen, blood thinners, and herbal supplements should generally be stopped at least 10 days prior to surgery. However, you must consult your surgeon before discontinuing any prescribed medications. Similarly, it is also advised to stop smoking and alcohol consumption at least four weeks before surgery. Nicotine negatively impacts wound healing, and alcohol carries potential interaction risks with anesthesia.

It is essential to follow fasting instructions on the day of surgery. If general anesthesia is planned, you should not eat or drink anything starting from midnight prior to the surgery day. Hygiene is another crucial step in preparation; taking a shower on the morning of surgery is important for cleaning the area. Perfumes, creams, or makeup should not be used.

Finally, be prepared for the postoperative period. Arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery and set up a comfortable recovery area at home. This area should be equipped with pillows, medications, and other necessary supplies.

How to Care for Yourself After Lip Lift Surgery?

Postoperative care for lip lift surgery is vital for accelerating recovery and achieving the best aesthetic results. The first 24–48 hours are critical for rest to reduce swelling and discomfort. However, rather than remaining completely immobile, taking light walks helps promote blood circulation and prevents the risk of clotting. Keeping your head elevated is an effective way to control swelling.

Applying cold compresses regularly can reduce swelling and bruising, but be careful not to use overly cold compresses that could cause frostbite on the skin. Using prescribed antibiotics and pain medication as recommended by your surgeon will reduce the risk of infection and help you manage pain. You should avoid medications like aspirin or ibuprofen that might increase bleeding risk during this time.

Pay attention to oral and dietary care in the first week after surgery. Prefer soft foods that do not require chewing, in order to minimize lip movement. You can brush your teeth gently, but take care not to damage the surgical area. Rinsing your mouth with a mild saltwater solution helps maintain oral hygiene. Keeping the sutures clean and using prescribed antibiotic ointment prevent infection.

From the second week onward, swelling and bruising start to subside, and activity restrictions may gradually be lifted according to your surgeon’s instructions. To support the healing process, apply sunscreen to the incision area and consider silicone-based scar treatment products.

In the long term, regular follow-up appointments are important for closely monitoring the healing process. Daily activities can be gradually increased; however, you should not return to strenuous exercise without your surgeon’s approval.