A lip lift is an effective way to give the face a youthful appearance by creating a fuller-looking lip and hiding the ageing appearance of your mouth.
Several types of lip lifts are available, depending on the desired look. Most procedures are carried out under a local anaesthesia. The great thing about a lip lift is that it has relatively with minimal downtime. It takes around an hour. Recovery is much quicker than a more complex procedure. Plus, you'll see the results within two weeks.
With ageing, loss of collagen and gum loss or receding gums can give the mouth a flat look, and in some cases, lips can look thin. These situations can make the area between the mouth and the base of the nose look longer. A lip lift can create a more rejuvenated look by reducing the length between the bottom of the nostril and the upper lip. The procedure helps to achieve a refreshed younger appearance.
It is best to discuss what you want to achieve with our specialist facial plastic surgeon. There are several options to consider, such as a modified version or Italian lip lift for those who are after a more discrete look. Our plastic surgeons will advise on the best option for your face so that it looks in proportion.
The lip lift can achieve a natural look, and it can help balance out the proportions of the face. The ideal candidates have a longer space between the base of the nose and the upper lip called the philtrum and who also want a subtle increase in the lip size.
It is best to have a consultation with our expert plastic surgeons to discuss what you are looking to achieve.
A lip lift or bull horn lift technique creates a cut along the base of the nostril in the shape of a bull horn. The skin is lifted or moved to allow the top lip to be augmented or increased. The surgeon completes the procedure under local anaesthesia. The scars are located at the base of the nose and are not readily noticeable.
A sub nasal bullhorn lift is comparable to a central lip lift. A cut is made at the lower nose, shortening the distance between the nose and the lips. The scar isn't visible under normal circumstances. Instead, the surgeon hides it in the area of the nose. Specifically, these cuts go where the sides of your face meet near your nose.
A corner lip lift is also known as a "grin lift" since it makes the face seem more pleasant. The surgeon takes a small amount of skin with two tiny incisions made at both corners of the mouth. Some patients will receive this procedure as a component of a multi-step lip lift. The scars around the mouth are hidden in the natural creases of the face.
Two incisions are required beneath each nostril. It is very similar to the bullhorn. Additionally, the procedure doesn't leave a visible scar.
Mr David Gateley
Mr Amir Sadri
Mr Paul Tulley
What are the risks associated with a lip lift?
There's a chance the upper lip lift can distort or slightly widen the nasal area. There can be a small scar at the base of the nostril usually hidden by makeup. Your surgeon can discuss any concerns about the procedure and assure you of any modifications to the treatment to reduce any nasal base distortion. Other general risks of surgery include excess bleeding and infections. Our medical team will provide you with post operative aftercare instructions to ensure your journey is a positive one.
What is the recovery time from a lip lift?
The lip lift is a quick procedure that takes less than an hour. You may choose to be awake or have sedation. Your will have a local anaesthetic for the treatment. Swelling is noticeable for seven to ten days. You can expect a one to two week recovery. Your mouth area may feel tight during this time, which can last a few months after the treatment. Mild discomfort should not prevent you from returning to your regular routine in 3 or 4 days.
What scarring can be expected from a lip lift?
Scarring with a lip lift depends on the procedure type. For most treatments, the incision is at the base of the nose and is not seen under normal circumstances. Makeup can hide the scar.
How soon will I see results / are they permanent?
You should start to see results after the swelling goes down about one to two weeks after the procedure.
How much does a lip lift cost?
The cost for a lip lift depends on the treatment plan agreed between you and your surgeon. The options will be discussed in your consultation along with any time lines you might have. Get in touch to find out more.
How should I prepare for a lip lift?
In your consultation with your surgeon will discuss all preoperative advice. Your nurse will also ensure you are ready for the procedure. They will discuss any special preparations you may need to make, and your medical history will be completed. Before your surgery, the medical team will inform you what medicines to stop and when you can resume taking them.
At Kensington Medical, we always begin with a pre-operative medical examination one week before the operation. At this appointment, we will:
At Kensington Medical, the process is a smooth journey. A video consultation with your facial cosmetic surgeon starts you off by covering all your questions and what you want to achieve. This is followed by an face to face consultation to discuss in detail the procedure and how it will work for you.
Your specialist surgeon will discuss the best options for your face shape and will review pictures of before and after surgeries so you can see the results. If you are in your 40’s, 50’s or 60’s your surgeon will encourage you to bring photos of yourself over the past few years. Your surgeon will create a plan based on your face type, skin condition, and muscle laxity. If you are in your 20’s or 30’s and are looking to change the shape of your lip, your surgeon will discuss the best options based on your face shape.
Medically reviewed by Mr David Gateley MA, FRCS, FRCS (Plast), GMC number 2939470 on 4 May, 2024.