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. The procedure specifically targets the upper lip area, enhancing the natural upper lip and improving overall facial harmony.
Several types of lip lifts are available, depending on the desired look and lip shape. Most procedures are carried out under a local anaesthesia. The great thing about a lip lift is that it has 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. A lip lift can create fuller lips and enhance the Cupid's bow, resulting in a more defined and attractive lip shape.
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. The ageing process and natural ageing process contribute to changes in lip and facial structure, such as skin laxity, drooping of lip corners, and loss of lip volume. 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.
While non-surgical options like lip augmentation using fillers can enhance lip aesthetics and provide patient satisfaction, they are temporary and need regular maintenance. Injectable fillers, lip filler, and lip filler injections can temporarily enhance lip volume and shape, but do not provide the structural lift or long-lasting results of a surgical lip lift. In contrast, surgical procedures like lip lifts offer more lasting and comprehensive results, especially for those with significant aging effects or anatomical variations.
It is best to discuss what you want to achieve with our specialist facial plastic surgeon. Consultations are conducted by expert plastic surgeons who provide detailed assessments and personalized treatment planning. 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.
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A lip lift is a type of lip surgery that uses specific surgical techniques to enhance the appearance of the upper lip by reducing the distance between the lip and the nose. This procedure aims to create a more youthful and rejuvenated look by shortening the philtrum, the vertical groove between the nose and the upper lip. The procedure involves making an incision, typically at the base of the nose, and removing a small strip of skin to achieve the desired lift. By lifting the upper lip, the procedure can improve lip definition and balance facial proportions. Various surgical methods and techniques, such as the bullhorn lip lift or corner lip lift, can be used depending on the patient's needs. A lip lift can be performed on its own or in conjunction with other facial rejuvenation procedures, such as rhinoplasty or facelift surgery, to achieve a harmonious overall appearance.
The various lip lift procedures can achieve a natural look and can be customised for individual patient needs and cosmetic goals.
There are several types of lip lift techniques, including the direct lip lift (also known as the gullwing lip lift), which involves an incision along the vermillion border above the lip to enhance contour and definition; the direct lip, which uses a similar approach for precise upper lip augmentation; and the subnasal bullhorn lip lift, which removes a bullhorn-shaped segment of skin beneath the nose for a subtle, virtually invisible scar.
As a non-surgical alternative, the lip flip uses injectable toxins to temporarily relax the upper lip muscles, providing a modest increase in upper lip height. These surgeries 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 lip lift surgeons to discuss what you are looking to achieve, as their expertise ensures safety and superior results during lip lift surgeries. During the procedure, deep sutures are placed beneath the skin to secure the upward lift of the lip and optimise scar concealment for natural, long-term results. In addition, understanding the anatomy of the lips, including the orbicularis oris muscle, is essential, as this muscle plays a key role in lip movement and is relevant to certain enhancement techniques.
Sub nasal Bullhorn
A surgical lip lift, such as the subnasal bullhorn lip lift technique, offers more permanent and substantial enhancements to lip aesthetics compared to lip fillers. In the subnasal bullhorn lip lift, the procedure involves removing a bullhorn-shaped segment of skin beneath the nose to lift and shape the upper lip. This 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. For more information about similar nasal procedures, read this essential guide to tip rhinoplasty.
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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. Attending follow up appointments are crucial to a good recovery. 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 of a lip lift at Kensington Medical is £4,750 with a local anaesthetic. To find out if you are suitable for a lip lift book a consultation with our experienced lip lift plastic surgeons.
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 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 lip lift 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.
As with any surgical procedure, lip lift surgery carries some potential risks and complications. While the vast majority of patients experience a smooth recovery, it’s important to be aware of possible issues such as infection, scarring, asymmetry, poor wound healing, or changes in sensation around the upper lip.
Choosing a highly qualified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in lip lift procedures significantly reduces these risks. Your surgeon will guide you through every step of the process, from the initial consultation to post-operative care, and provide detailed instructions to support your healing. Attending all follow-up appointments and closely following your surgeon’s advice will help ensure a safe and successful outcome from your lip lift surgery.
The recovery time for a lip lift procedure is typically short, with most patients able to return to their normal activities within a week. The recovery process generally involves an initial period of swelling and discomfort, followed by gradual improvement as the healing process progresses. Most patients notice significant improvement within the first week, but full healing and scar maturation can take several months. To ensure a smooth and safe recovery, it is essential to follow the post-operative instructions provided by your surgeon. These may include:
Avoiding Strenuous Activities and Heavy Lifting: To prevent complications and promote healing, it’s important to avoid any activities that could strain the surgical area or increase blood flow to the face, as this can lead to increased swelling and bleeding.
Keeping the Head Elevated to Reduce Swelling: Elevating your head, especially while sleeping, can help minimize swelling and discomfort.
Applying Ice Packs to the Affected Area: Using ice packs as directed can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain.
Taking Pain Medication as Directed: Follow your surgeon’s instructions regarding pain management to ensure a comfortable recovery.
Following a Soft Diet: Eating a soft diet during the initial recovery period can help reduce discomfort and promote healing by minimizing strain on the surgical site.
Attending Follow Up Appointments with Your Surgeon: Regular follow up appointments are crucial to monitor your healing process, ensure proper recovery, and confirm satisfactory results.
It is also important to note that the final results of a lip lift procedure may take several weeks to become apparent. While initial swelling and tightness will subside within the first few weeks, it may take several months for the scars to fully mature and fade, revealing the full benefits of the surgery.
The cost of a lip lift in London can vary depending on several factors, including the specific lip lift procedure chosen and the expertise of the plastic surgeon. Choosing a repuatable clinic with expert surgeons is crucial.
On average, the lip lift cost ranges from £4,500 to £5,500. During your consultation, your plastic surgeon will discuss where you want to improve on so they can advise on the best lip lift procdure for you. When considering the cost, it’s important to remember that a lip lift is a long-term investment in your appearance and self-confidence, offering permanent results that eliminate the need for ongoing treatments like lip fillers. Choosing a reputable Cosmetic surgery clinic is important.
Selecting the right plastic surgeon for your sub nasal lip lift procedure is crucial to achieve natural looking results and minimising the risk of complications. Look for a specialist facial plastic surgeon with a proven track record in lip lift surgery and with a proven surgical technique. For example the distance between the nose is highly relevant to achieving perfect symmetry. Take the time to read patient reviews, ask for before-and-after photos, and book a consultation to discuss your goals and expectations. A skilled plastic surgeon will listen to your concerns, explain the lip lift procedure in detail, and recommend the best approach to enhance your upper lip lift while maintaining harmony with your facial features.
Kensington Medical is facial plastic surgery clinic that specialises in lip lift surgery in London, offering expert care from highly qualified and experienced plastic surgeons. Our team specialises in a range of lip lift procedures, ensuring each patient receives a personalized treatment plan tailored to their unique needs and aesthetic goals. We are committed to delivering the highest standards of safety, quality, and patient satisfaction, using the latest surgical techniques in state-of-the-art facilities. From your initial consultation through to your final follow-up, you have dedicated professionals who prioritise your care.
Medically reviewed by Mr David Gateley MA, FRCS, FRCS (Plast), GMC number 2939470 on 11 November, 2025.