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What is a Lip Lift?

A lip lift, or lip shortening, is a simple surgical procedure to address the upper lip and the area between the nose and the mouth. The ideal length for this area is about 12-15 millimeters. When this area is larger in comparison to the rest of the facial features, the lip lift can help achieve a more balanced appearance, enhancing the appearance of the lips and face.

Who is a Candidate?

Candidates for the lip lift are those who are unhappy with the size of the area between the upper lip and the bottom of the columella (the middle of the nose). Patients can also benefit from a lip lift or lip shortening to decrease the size of an upper lip that is covering too much of the teeth or is disproportionate to the rest of the face. Ideal candidates will be in good health and be nonsmokers or be ready to quit smoking several weeks before their procedure.

The Lip Lift Procedure

The lip lift involves the removal of excess skin in the upper lip to create a shorter or lifted appearance. There are a few different incision techniques that can be used depending on the desired results. One involves an incision along the border of the upper lip where excess skin can then be removed, shortening and lifting the upper lip. In another technique, an incision is made below the columella of the nose and excess skin is removed to shorten the distance between the nose and upper lip. No matter which technique is used, incisions are always placed along the natural creases of the nose or lip to ensure well-concealed scarring.

Recovery and Results

Recovery after a lip lift procedure can take up to a week. During the first few days, patients can expect some swelling that can be controlled with the use of an ice pack. Discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication or prescription pain killer from your doctor. Patients should keep the incision clean and dry and should limit mouth movement during recovery. You may want to stick to a liquid and soft food diet, avoiding taking large bites and opening the mouth too wide.

After your lip lift recovery, you can expect a shortened, lifted, and enhanced upper lift for a more balanced facial appearance. Your scar may appear raised at first, but will gradually fade with time.

To learn more about the lip lift or other lip enhancement options we offer, contact our office today. We can schedule your consultation with Dr. Homas or Dr. Brostrom to determine if the lip lift is right for you.