Lip Lifts
A lip lift is a permanent cosmetic solution aimed at reducing the distance between the nose base and the upper lip, offering a more defined and natural appearance without relying on fillers or implants for volume augmentation.
Purpose and Effects of a Lip Lift
This surgical intervention serves various purposes, including covering exposed upper teeth, augmenting upper lip volume, correcting downturned lip corners, and addressing aging-related lines.
Different Types of Lip Lifts
Several lip lift variations cater to different aesthetic goals:
- Bullhorn lip lift (subnasal lip lift)
- Central lip lift
- Corner lip lift
- Gullwing lip lift (direct lip lift)
- Italian lip lift
- V to Y lip lift (V-Y advancement)
Preparation for a Lip Lift
Before the procedure, consultations with a plastic surgeon are crucial to assess candidacy and align expectations. Patients are typically advised to abstain from alcohol, blood-thinning medications, and smoking in the weeks leading up to surgery.
Procedure Details
Performed under local or general anesthesia depending on accompanying procedures, a lip lift involves incisions, removal of excess skin, and lifting the upper lip or related areas based on the chosen technique.
Duration and Post-Procedure Care
Typically lasting less than an hour, the surgery requires post-operative care, including head elevation while sleeping, limited talking, prescribed medications, and a soft diet. Swelling, soreness, and tightness are common after-effects.
Risks and Benefits
Benefits of a lip lift encompass permanent results, enhanced lip volume, a youthful appearance, improved smile, and boosted self-confidence. While rare, potential risks include allergic reactions, bruising, infection, nerve damage, scarring, and persistent swelling or unevenness.
Recovery Period and Expectations
Recovery spans around six to eight weeks, with initial swelling subsiding within a week and complete resolution within a month. Optimal results may take up to four months, allowing patients to gradually resume daily activities as advised by our providers.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Patients are advised to contact their plastic surgeon promptly if they encounter allergic reactions, excessive bleeding, worsening or persistent swelling, or signs of infection post-surgery.