Lip Lift
A lip lift can help improve visible signs of aging by enhancing the appearance of the upper lip. Such indicators as a long upper lip, down-turned corner of the lip, covering of the upper teeth by the upper lip or smoker's lines may cause unwelcome effects and an older appearance.
A lip lift procedure can also help to increase the show (or that red portion of the upper lip) by decreasing the distance between the nose and the upper lip. This type of cosmetic facial enhancement does not necessarily augment the lip, but helps to elevate the upper lip area to make it appear larger. The incision is easily hidden at the base of the nose.
- Am I a candidate for a lip lift?
If you are concerned with visible signs of facial aging around the mouth area, then a lip lift may be right for you. Additional factors of an ideal candidate include:
- A thin upper lip
- No upper tooth show when the lips are parted
- How do I prepare for a lip lift?
Although typically performed as an out-patient procedure using local anesthesia, preparation for your lip lift procedure will include a discussion with your cosmetic surgeon about your health, desires and lifestyle. He or she will evaluate your general health status and any pre-existing health conditions or risk factors as part of your consultation.
To ensure the best results from your lip lift procedure, be prepared to discuss:
- Why you want the surgery, your expectations and desired outcome
- Medical conditions, drug allergies and medical treatments
- Use of current medications, vitamins, herbal supplements, alcohol, tobacco and drugs
- Previous surgeries
Your cosmetic surgeon may also:
- Discuss the options available to you for lip lift and other facial rejuvenation procedures
- Examine and measure your face
- Take photographs for your medical record
- Discuss your lip lift procedure options and recommend a course of treatment
- Discuss likely outcomes of a lip lift and any risks or potential complications
- How is a lip lift performed?
A lip lift procedure can be performed in a variety of ways, and procedures are highly individualized to a patient's specific needs.
Central Lip Lift: A central lip lift shortens the upper lip and advancing the red portion to help give the appearance of greater volume in the upper lip. This is done by making a small incision directly under and hidden by the nose.
Down-turned corners of the mouth: Down-turned corners of the mouth can be addressed by performing a similar surgery as a central lip lift, with a small incision being made on the side of the mouth. This helps place the corners of the mouth in a more attractive position. With either approach, very fine sutures are placed during surgery, and generally removed four to five days after surgery.
- What results can I expect?
Patients can expect to experience minimal post-surgery bruising typically lasting less than one week.
Results from your lip lift will be long lasting. You can help maintain your rejuvenated, more youthful appearance through life-long sun protection and a healthy lifestyle. Follow-up consultations with your cosmetic surgeon will help ensure your lip lift results.
- What is the involved recovery?
You may experience minimal bruising that is resolved in less than one week. Your Plastic cosmetic surgeon will advise you on the best recovery plan for you.
- Is a lip lift safe?
The lip lift is a straight-forward operation to make the lips younger and more attractive. It is a minimally invasive procedure with very little down-time. Rarely, a scar may be visible. Otherwise, there tends to be little risk involved with this procedure.
