Lip Lift
Shortening of the philtral height to increase upper lip show and improve the lip–tooth relationship.
- Region
- Upper lip
- Anaesthesia
- Local with sedation
- Theatre time
- 1 hour
- Downtime
- 1–2 weeks
Overview
A subnasal (bullhorn) lip lift removes a measured strip of skin beneath the nose, shortening the cutaneous upper lip and increasing vermilion show and incisor display. The scar sits in the nasal sill shadow.
What it changes
- Philtral length
- Vermilion show
- Incisor show at rest
- Lip curvature
Common goals
Candidates
General factors a surgeon may consider. Only a qualified surgeon can assess whether you are a candidate.
- General physical health suitable for the anaesthetic required
- Realistic, clearly articulated aesthetic or functional goals
- Stable anatomy appropriate for the technique proposed
- Non-smoking or willingness to stop for the surgeon's required window
Surgical approach
- 01Precisely marked subnasal excision
- 02Multi-layer closure to minimise scar tension
Recovery timeline
- Day 1
Immediate post-operative period. Swelling begins, dressings or splints may be in place, supervised rest.
- Week 1
Peak swelling and bruising. Limited activity, soft diet where relevant, first follow-up visit.
- Week 2
Bruising fades. Many people feel socially presentable, light activity resumes.
- Week 4
Most acute swelling resolves. Gradual return to exercise as cleared by the surgeon.
- Month 3
Contours become clearer. Residual swelling continues to settle.
- Month 6
Result is largely representative of the final outcome.
- Month 12+
Final refinement, scar maturation, and revision assessment if needed.
Risks & complications
Limitations
Before & after cases
No verified cases published yet
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Open case librarySurgeons performing this procedure
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Open surgeon directoryCost
These are broad estimates only. Actual costs vary significantly by country, surgeon, hospital, anaesthesia, imaging, orthodontic treatment, revision policy, and individual complexity. Always obtain a written quotation.
Questions to ask your surgeon
Book a Dark Aesthetics Consultation
A private, structured session to review this procedure in the context of your goals and prepare the questions that matter before you meet a qualified surgeon.
Book ConsultationInformation on this platform is for educational purposes and should not replace consultation with a qualified medical professional. Surgical suitability, risks, and expected outcomes must be assessed by an appropriately qualified surgeon.