Lip Lift

Shorten the distance between the nose and upper lip to create a more youthful, defined lip appearance. A permanent alternative to lip fillers with natural-looking results.

Quick Facts

Type

Surgical (LA)

Duration

~1 hour

Hospital

Walk-in walk-out

Time Off

1 week

Exercise

2 weeks

Final Results

2-3 months

Cost

On consultation

Consultation

Required

Overview

A lip lift is a surgical procedure that shortens the distance between the nose and the upper lip (the philtrum), creating a more youthful and defined upper lip with greater vermilion show. Unlike lip fillers which add volume, a lip lift permanently enhances the lip shape by exposing more of the natural pink lip. It is performed under local anaesthesia with minimal downtime.

As we age, the upper lip can elongate, making the mouth appear thinner and less defined. A lip lift restores the youthful proportion between the nose and mouth by repositioning the upper lip higher. The result is a more prominent, fuller-looking upper lip with improved facial balance.

Permanent Solution: Unlike lip fillers that require regular maintenance, a lip lift provides a permanent result. No ongoing treatments are needed once healed.

Who Is This Procedure For?

•Long upper lip (philtrum) creating an aged appearance
•Desire for more visible upper lip without fillers
•Thin upper lip that has lost definition with age
•Those seeking a permanent alternative to repeated lip filler
•Desire for improved facial proportions

What Does the Procedure Involve?

Local Anaesthesia

The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia, meaning the lip and surrounding area are numbed. You remain awake throughout the procedure, and there is no need for general anaesthesia.

Incision Placement

A small incision is made at the base of the nose in the natural crease (bullhorn or subnasal lip lift approach). This placement hides the scar in a natural anatomical crease, minimising its visibility.

Skin Removal and Lip Repositioning

A precisely measured strip of skin is removed to shorten the philtrum. The upper lip is then lifted upward, exposing more of the natural pink lip (vermilion). This creates a fuller, more youthful appearance.

Fine Suturing

Fine stitches are used to close the incision, ensuring minimal scarring. The scar typically fades significantly and blends well with the natural crease at the nose base.

Risks & Considerations

⚠Scarring at Nose Base: Usually well-concealed in the natural crease, but permanent
⚠Asymmetry: Slight imbalance in lip lift or shape
⚠Numbness: Temporary or permanent numbness in lip and surrounding area
⚠Infection: Rare, managed with antibiotics if it occurs
⚠Bleeding: Uncommon but can occur requiring further management
⚠Over or Under-Correction: May need revision to achieve optimal results
⚠Changes to Smile Dynamics: Smile appearance may be slightly altered
⚠Need for Revision: May be needed to refine results