Lip Lift Surgery

An Upper Lip lift surgery is a permanent solution for fuller, youthful lips

Lip fillers are a popular option for those seeking to enhance the appearance of their lips, but unfortunately, the results are not permanent and require repeated treatments every few months. This can be inconvenient and costly in the long run. However, there is a cosmetic surgical procedure known as a lip lift, which can provide a permanent solution for patients seeking plumper and fuller lips.

A lip lift involves the surgical removal of a small strip of skin from above the upper lip, followed by lifting and suturing the remaining skin to the incision line. This brings the upper lip outward and upward, resulting in a plumper and more youthful appearance. The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia and takes about an hour to complete.

Lip lift surgery is a suitable option for both young and old patients who wish to achieve permanently plump, well-exposed lips. This is particularly helpful for those with a long upper lip or philtrum, which is a common sign of ageing and can prevent the upper teeth from showing. In addition to the effects of ageing, some people may be born with thin or pursed lips, which can also be addressed with a lip lift.

At Centre for Surgery, our specialist plastic surgeons perform upper lip lift surgery for patients in London and throughout the UK. Our surgeons are skilled and experienced in using various lip surgery techniques, such as the subnasal bullhorn lip lift, central lip lift, corner lip lift, and direct lip lift, to customise the procedure to each patient’s unique needs and goals.

Lip lift surgery is a surgical procedure for correcting a long upper lip. Over time, the skin overlying the lips tends to lose its elasticity and undergoes descent with a subsequent change in the upper lip shape and length. Some patients are often distressed by an excessive length between the upper lip and the base of the nose that can either progress over time or be present from birth. Having a long upper lip can reduce teeth visibility with the relaxation of mouth opening and upon smiling.

Lip lift surgery is also known as:

• Upper lip lift
• Lip augmentation surgery
• Subnasal lip lift
• Bullhorn lip lift
• Gull wing lip lift
• Italian lip lift
• Corner lip lift
• Smile lift
• Lip rejuvenation surgery
• Vermilion advancement

An upper lip lift can address the aesthetics of the upper lip area by reduction of the distance between the nose and lip, making the lips appear fuller and more youthful. Many patients have thin lips, and a lip lift procedure can also address this common feature of the ageing process. As part of the natural ageing process, drooping of the corners of the mouth may occur, and a corner lip lift can effectively correct a downturned mouth. For patients looking to slow down the signs of ageing and rejuvenate the central third of the face, lip lift surgery at Centre for Surgery could be a highly effective solution.

Optimising the aesthetics of the lips

Our lips come in many different shapes and sizes. The foundation of a beautiful lip enhancement procedure with a lip lift is to maintain the correct balance and proportion with the rest of the facial features. The lips are divided into different areas that can be addressed with non-invasive procedures like lip fillers and minimally invasive surgical procedures like a lip lift.

An upper lip lift is a cosmetic surgical procedure that is designed to enhance the appearance of the lips by making them permanently fuller and more prominent. The procedure involves shortening the distance between the base of the nose and the border of the upper lip, which is also known as the cupid’s bow. This area under the nose is called the philtrum, and by shortening it and pulling the upper lip upward, more “pink” lip tissue rolls outward, giving the lips a plumper and more youthful appearance.

Different types of lip lift

The key to the success of lip enhancement surgery lies in choosing the right type of lip lift for the individual patient’s cosmetic goals. There are several types of lip lift procedures to choose from, including direct lip lift, subnasal bullhorn lift, corner lip lift, Italian lip lift, and central lip lift. Your plastic surgeon will help you determine which type of lip lift will best suit your individual needs and goals.

Lip enhancement surgery can improve the overall proportions of the face, add volume to the lips, and eliminate wrinkles above the mouth. The benefits of the procedure are long-lasting and provide a permanent solution to those seeking fuller and more prominent lips.

RELATED: Lip lift surgery vs lip flip & lip filler

It is important to choose a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon at Centre for Surgery to perform the procedure and follow all pre- and post-operative instructions carefully to minimise any potential risks and complications associated with the surgery.

Lip lift surgery is a cosmetic surgical procedure that is becoming increasingly popular as people seek more permanent and effective ways to enhance the appearance of their lips. The benefits of lip lift surgery are numerous and can have a significant impact on a person’s overall appearance and self-confidence. In this answer, we will discuss the various benefits of lip lift surgery in detail.

• Permanently fuller lips: One of the main benefits of lip lift surgery is that it provides permanent results. Unlike temporary lip enhancement procedures such as fillers, which require repeated treatments every few months, a lip lift surgery permanently enhances the appearance of the lips. By shortening the philtrum and pulling the upper lip upward, more “pink” lip tissue is exposed, making the lips look fuller and more voluminous.
• Natural-looking results: Another significant advantage of lip lift surgery is that it provides natural-looking results. The procedure enhances the natural beauty of the lips, creating a subtle and natural-looking effect that complements the rest of the face. This is in contrast to some temporary lip enhancement procedures, which can result in an overdone or unnatural appearance.
• Improved proportions of the face: Lip lift surgery can improve the overall proportions of the face, creating a more balanced and harmonious appearance. By enhancing the size and shape of the lips, the procedure can create a more youthful and attractive appearance that complements the rest of the facial features.
• Reduced appearance of wrinkles: Lip lift surgery can also reduce the appearance of wrinkles above the mouth, such as smoker’s lines. By shortening the distance between the nose and the upper lip, the procedure smooths out the skin in this area, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
• Increased self-confidence: Many people choose to undergo lip lift surgery to increase their self-confidence and improve their overall quality of life. By enhancing the appearance of the lips, the procedure can provide a significant boost in self-esteem and self-confidence, helping individuals feel more comfortable and confident in their own skin.
• Customised to individual needs: Lip lift surgery can be customized to the individual needs and goals of each patient. There are different types of lip lift procedures available, including the direct lip lift, subnasal bullhorn lift, corner lip lift, Italian lip lift, and central lip lift. Each procedure is tailored to the specific needs and goals of the patient, ensuring that they achieve the results they desire.
• Minimal downtime: Lip lift surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that typically involves minimal downtime. Most patients can return to their normal activities within a few days to a week after the procedure, depending on the extent of the surgery.

A lip lift is a popular surgical procedure that can be done for patients of all ages and benefits those who wish to improve their smile and the appearance of the mouth area. Through this procedure, the surgeon reduces the distance between the upper lip and the base of the nose, which gives the appearance of full lips and an overall youthful complexion. A well-performed lip lift can also eliminate the need for lip fillers, as lifting the upper lip also creates an eversion effect and exposes more of the natural upper lip.

What is a lip lift, and is it worth it?

The other type of lip lift surgery is corner lip lift, which only targets the corners of the lips, elevating them slightly. This procedure is recommended for patients with lip corners pointing downwards, making it look like they are frowning.

Improve your smile with a corner lip lift

Lip lift surgery can be a suitable option for a wide range of patients who are seeking a more permanent and effective solution for lip enhancement. However, not all patients may be suitable candidates for the procedure. In general, suitable patients for lip lift surgery include:

1. Those seeking permanent lip enhancement: Lip lift surgery provides permanent results that can enhance the size and shape of the lips, making it a suitable option for those seeking a long-lasting solution to lip enhancement.
2. Those with a long philtrum: A long philtrum, which is the area between the base of the nose and the border of the upper lip, can make the lips appear thin and less prominent. Lip lift surgery can help to shorten the philtrum, pulling the upper lip upward and creating a more voluminous appearance.
3. Those with thin or pursed lips: Lip lift surgery can help to enhance the shape and volume of thin or pursed lips, creating a more plump and youthful appearance.
4. Those seeking a natural-looking result: Lip lift surgery can provide a subtle and natural-looking enhancement to the lips, creating a result that complements the rest of the facial features.
5. Those in good overall health: Lip lift surgery is a minimally invasive procedure, but like any surgical procedure, it carries some risks. Patients should be in good overall health and have no underlying medical conditions that may increase the risk of complications.
6. Those with realistic expectations: It is important for patients to have realistic expectations about the results of lip lift surgery. While the procedure can enhance the appearance of the lips, it cannot completely change the overall appearance of the face.

As part of the consultation, you will first communicate your requirements to your facial plastic surgeon, indicating the issue that concerns you and then possible solutions will be discussed. Depending on the problem, the surgeon will recommend either an upper lip lift or a corner lip lift, and, in the case of the former, the surgeon will establish how much skin should be removed. This part of the consultation is done in front of the mirror so that you know what you could look like after the procedure.

How to Prepare for a lip lift

Preparing for a lip lift surgery is important to ensure that the procedure is safe and successful. Here are some steps to prepare for a lip lift:

• Medical evaluation: Before the procedure, your plastic surgeon may require a medical evaluation to assess your overall health and to ensure that you are a suitable candidate for the surgery. This may involve a physical exam, blood tests, and other diagnostic tests.
• Avoid certain medications and supplements: Certain medications and supplements can increase the risk of bleeding during and after the surgery. Your plastic surgeon will provide you with a list of medications and supplements to avoid in the weeks leading up to the procedure.
• Stop smoking: Smoking can interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of complications during and after the surgery. It is recommended that you stop smoking at least two weeks before the procedure.
• Arrange for transportation: Lip lift surgery is usually performed under local anaesthesia, but you may still be groggy or uncomfortable after the procedure. It is important to arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery and to have someone stay with you for the first few days after the procedure.
• Plan for recovery: Lip lift surgery is a minimally invasive procedure, but you will still need to take some time off work and avoid strenuous activities for a few days after the procedure. Your plastic surgeon will provide detailed instructions on how to care for your incisions and manage any discomfort or swelling.

Lip lift surgery is an outpatient surgical procedure. You will be admitted and discharged on the same day, allowing you to recover in the comfort of your own home.

Lip lift surgery is considered a minimally invasive surgical procedure and, in most cases, can be performed under a local anaesthetic. You can choose to have some supplementary mild tablet oral sedation if you feel nervous on the day of your procedure. TIVA general anaesthesia is reserved for complex cases, revision surgery or lip lift combined with more invasive procedures such as a facelift.

There are various types of upper lip lift procedures, and the ideal surgery for an individual patient will be recommended by their surgeon. In general, these procedures can be performed under local or general anaesthesia, and all involve an incision in the skin between the nose and upper lip. Before making the incision, the surgeon will use a surgical marker to draw the appropriate surgical lines. The precise location, shape, and size of the incision will depend on the type of lip lift procedure being performed.

Bullhorn Lip Lift 

The bullhorn lip lift, also known as the subnasal bullhorn lip lift, is a popular technique for enhancing the appearance of the lips. This procedure involves making a curved incision along the lower border of the nose, resembling a moustache or bullhorn. The surgeon then removes a bullhorn-shaped piece of skin from under the nose, lifting the upper lip and rolling it out. The incision is then closed with fine sutures along the base of the nose.

RELATED: What is a bullhorn lip lift?

At our plastic surgery clinic in London, the bullhorn lip lift is one of the most commonly performed lip lift techniques. One of the primary advantages of this technique is that it results in almost invisible scars. The incision is well hidden on the curves of the nose, making it virtually unnoticeable. Additionally, the bullhorn lip lift produces sustained and significant cosmetic improvement. The procedure enhances the size and shape of the lips, creating more volume and exposing more of the pink colour.

Direct Lip Lift

Direct lip lift, also known as the gullwing lip lift, is another popular technique for enhancing the appearance of the lips. This procedure involves making a skin incision directly at the vermillion border, which is right above the lip. This is different from the bullhorn lip lift, which involves an incision under the nose. After making a thin incision, the surgeon will roll the lip out and suture it in place.

The direct lip lift is a great option for patients looking to create a more defined upper lip border. However, it can leave a thin scar above the lip. Despite this potential drawback, the scar is usually very subtle and only noticeable upon close observation.

Corner Lip Lift

The corner lip lift procedure, also known as the “grin lift”, is designed to enhance your smile and give your face a more jovial look. Some individuals may have a natural drooping at the corners of their mouth, which can convey a sense of sadness or melancholy. However, a corner lip lift can address this issue and transform a frown into a smile.

During the procedure, the surgeon will make two incisions at the corners of the mouth and pull them upward and outward, resulting in a permanent, more uplifting appearance. For optimal results, patients may choose to combine a corner lip lift with a bullhorn or gullwing lip lift.

Italian lip lift

For those seeking to enhance the appearance of their lips without fillers, the Italian lip lift is a viable option. Unlike the central and bullhorn lip lifts, this procedure requires smaller incisions. The Italian lip lift involves making two small incisions under each nostril, removing a small amount of skin, and lifting and pulling up the lip to achieve the desired effect.

Central Lip Lift

Recovery after lip lift surgery can vary depending on the type of procedure performed and individual factors such as age, overall health, and the extent of surgery. However, there are some general guidelines that can help prepare patients for what to expect during the recovery process.

Immediately after the procedure, patients may experience some pain, swelling, and bruising around the lips and the incision area. These symptoms are normal and typically subside within the first few days. Pain medication can be prescribed by the surgeon to alleviate discomfort during this time.

Patients should avoid touching or manipulating the lips for the first few days following the procedure to ensure proper healing. The incision site will be covered with a bandage or dressing, which should be kept clean and dry. The surgeon may recommend applying ice packs or cold compresses to the lips to reduce swelling and promote healing.

In the first week after surgery, patients should avoid any strenuous activity or exercise that could increase blood flow to the face, as this can cause swelling and bleeding. Patients should also avoid eating or drinking hot, spicy, or acidic foods and beverages that can irritate the incision site.

After the first week, the bandage or dressing can be removed, and the incision site can be cleaned with mild soap and water. Patients may be advised to apply an ointment or cream to the incision site to keep it moisturized and promote healing.

For the first two to three weeks following surgery, patients should avoid any activities that could put pressure on the incision site, such as smoking or using a straw. It is also important to avoid exposing the incision site to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures during this time.

Most patients can return to work or other normal activities within one to two weeks after the procedure, although full recovery may take several weeks to several months, depending on the individual’s healing process.

Like any surgical procedure, lip lift surgery carries certain risks and potential complications. While serious complications are rare, it is important for patients to be aware of them before undergoing the procedure. Some potential risks and complications of lip lift surgery include:

1. Infection: Any surgical procedure carries a risk of infection, and lip lift surgery is no exception. Infection can occur at the incision site and may require antibiotics or additional treatment.
2. Scarring: While the incisions made during lip lift surgery are typically small and well-concealed, there is still a risk of scarring. The extent of scarring can vary depending on individual factors such as skin type and the extent of surgery.
3. Asymmetry: In some cases, there may be slight asymmetry or unevenness in the appearance of the lips after surgery. This may require additional treatment or revision surgery to correct.
4. Numbness: Some patients may experience temporary numbness or loss of sensation in the lips following the procedure. This typically resolves on its own over time, but in rare cases, it can be permanent.
5. Unfavourable results: While most patients are happy with the results of their lip lift surgery, there is a risk of dissatisfaction or unexpected outcomes. It is important for patients to have realistic expectations and communicate their goals clearly with their surgeon.
6. Allergic reaction: In rare cases, patients may experience an allergic reaction to anaesthesia or other medications used during the procedure.

Patients need to discuss these risks and potential complications with their surgeon before undergoing lip lift surgery. By carefully selecting a qualified and experienced surgeon and following all pre-and post-operative instructions, patients can minimize their risks and achieve the best possible results.

At Centre for Surgery, our top plastic surgeons are known for their beautiful natural results achieved with lip fillers to restore volume loss. Our surgeons only use dermal fillers made of hyaluronic acid, which occurs naturally in the human body. Premium dermal fillers last, on average, about 6-12 months, depending on the filler type, after which top-up treatments are needed to maintain the results. Our surgeons commonly use the Juvederm range of dermal fillers, which have an excellent safety profile.

While lip fillers can be an effective way to plump up the lips, they do have a few drawbacks to consider. One disadvantage is that they are temporary, and patients will need to have follow-up injections every 4-6 months to maintain their results. The injections themselves can be uncomfortable, and some patients may experience pain or bruising at the injection site.

Additionally, while lip fillers are generally safe, frequent injections increase the likelihood of complications such as infection or allergic reactions. Finally, the costs of recurrent injections can add up over time, making it a more expensive option compared to other long-term alternatives, such as lip lift surgery.

Several factors will determine the overall cost of the lip lift procedure, and the final quotation will be given after your face-to-face consultation with your specialist facial plastic surgeon.

There are several reasons why one might choose Centre for Surgery for lip lift surgery:

1. Expertise: Centre for Surgery is a leading plastic surgery clinic in the UK, with a team of highly qualified and experienced plastic surgeons who specialise in lip lift surgery. They use the latest techniques and technologies to achieve the best possible results for their patients.
2. Patient-centric approach: Centre for Surgery is committed to providing a patient-centric approach, ensuring that each patient’s individual needs and goals are addressed throughout the entire surgical process. They take the time to listen to their patients’ concerns and provide personalized treatment plans to achieve the desired results.
3. Safety and quality: Centre for Surgery is dedicated to providing the highest standards of safety and quality in their surgical procedures. They use state-of-the-art facilities and equipment to ensure that their patients receive the best possible care and achieve the best possible outcomes.
4. Aftercare: Centre for Surgery provides comprehensive aftercare for their patients to ensure a smooth recovery and long-lasting results. They provide detailed instructions on post-operative care and follow-up appointments to monitor the healing process.
5. Reputation: Centre for Surgery has a strong reputation for excellence in plastic surgery, with many satisfied patients and positive reviews. They are committed to maintaining their reputation by providing the highest standards of care and achieving the best possible results for their patients.

Based on 135 reviews

Zara Khan

19/11/2021

Amazing from start to finish, the communication was the main thing was fully informed and looked after, on the day of my breast augmentation, the staff were fab and made me feel at ease through out the whole process. Thank you so much.

Mohammed Farid

18/11/2021

I’ve had such a great experience with excellent advice, care and attention and surgical treatment (gynaecomastia) - I can fully endorse the treatment I have received from Centre for Surgery with absolutely no qualms at all. Brilliant in every way - thank you all so much.

Caroline Thorpe

14/11/2021

Very pleased with my whole experience of having a procedure. Was so nervous about getting treatment and i was reassured and felt so comfortable throughout thanks to the amazing nurses. I definitely made the right decision to have breast augmentation at centre for surgery with dr erel.

Melissa Briggs

08/11/2021

So glad I went with centre for surgery, the whole process went very smoothly from the consultations down to the actual day of the procedure. I was so nervous on the day but the whole team put me at ease and I’m happy with my results as I feel a lot more comfortable wearing certain clothes now. My surgeon was Alberto Di Giuseppe who performed a breast Augmentation on me, and I would definitely recommend as he was very clear on what the outcome of the surgery would be and which size would look the best for my frame.

Raphinha kiki

08/11/2021

Couldn’t be happier with Dr Tillo work,i had my breast surgery one week ago and so happy with the results so far,all the staff are extremely nice and very supportive,i would definitely recommend their services,thank so much

Grace Olafemi

15/10/2021

From start to the finish everything was perfect for tummy tuck surgery. All staff is very friendly and the aftercare has been good. The Doctor and the nurse team was fantastic. I'm so happy...result is amazing. Thank you!!!

Ranjit Singh

14/10/2021

This was overall a great experience, all the staff at Centre for Surgery were friendly and put me at ease. It is a nerve wracking thing to go through an op but the staff were so nice. Mr Ertan has got a great team around him. On the day of the operation everything went smoothly to plan, there was no delay or holdups, I had another consultation with Mr Ertan who confirmed what was going to be done and that I was still happy to proceed. I was prepped for the procedure, I met with the anaesthetist who again was really nice and put me at ease explaining his role. After the procedure I woke up with the nurse by my side making sure I was OK and checking on me, I was able to stay in the clinic until I was ready to leave and was not rushed at all. I was well looked after from the start to the point when I was discharged. Post operation I was staying at a local hotel it was so close there was no point in even getting a taxi and I was able to walk back where my partner was waiting for me. I was expecting a lot of bruising to both my eyes but there was very little if any by the time the cast came off after 7 days, I am now at the two week post operation point and it is healing well with no outwardly visible bruising or scaring. The next milestone is a checkup at the 6 week point with my surgeon. If you're thinking of having something like this done I would highly recommend getting in touch with Centre for Surgery.

Layla Karami

13/10/2021

The staff at Centre for Surgery were very kind and accommodating. They answered any questions I had about the procedure and were constantly checking up on me. A special thank you to Christina for all her support throughout.

Gemma Small

08/10/2021

I would just like to state the quality of care received from the nurses at Centre for Surgery was beyond the highest level. Sophie takes her patient care to another level beyond words. She always puts me at ease. She is there for me even at awkward hours just when I mostly needed reassurance and she is one of the most compassionate nurses I have come across and demonstrates her passion naturally for caring for others. She totally deserves recognition at its finest and thank you for always being there for me. 😍

Medical references about Lip Lift Surgery

• Lip Lift
• The upper lip lift using the ‘bull’s horn’ approach
• Lifting lips: 28 years of experience using the direct excision approach to rejuvenate the ageing mouth
• HOW I DO IT Approaches to lip augmentation: surgical lip lift | The PMFA Journal