Candidates for a lip lift or reduction are usually adults with a long upper lip or reduced tooth show who want a more defined, youthful lip contour. Healthy individuals without conditions that impair wound healing, such as uncontrolled diabetes, are best suited for surgery. Non-smokers or those who can cease smoking before and after the procedure are preferred to minimize risks. Realistic expectations about improvement and facial harmony are essential for good surgical outcomes
A lip lift is performed by marking and making an incision just below the nose or above the upper lip, then removing a small strip of skin. The remaining skin is gently lifted and sutured, elevating the upper lip for improved contour and tooth show. The procedure is usually done under local anesthesia and takes less than an hour
Mucosal incisions inside the lip remove excess tissue. Wedge resection or central excision
reshapes vermilion; sutures close mucosa.
Permanent enhancement of lip shape, improved tooth display (lip lift), relief of functional
discomfort (reduction), and long-lasting outcomes
Permanent enhancement of lip shape, improved tooth display (lip lift), relief of functional
discomfort (reduction), and long-lasting outcomes
Bruising and swelling peak at 48–72 hours, resolve by 1–2 weeks. Sutures removed at day 5–7.
Return to work within 5–7 days.