What Is The Mouth Lift? The mouth lift is a surgical procedure that can help improve the appearance of your mouth, including your lips, chin, and jawline. The procedure is usually performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning you won’t need to stay overnight in the hospital. You can return home after the surgery, where you’ll be able to care for yourself. During the procedure, an incision will be made along the line of your gum or on the inside of your lip. The surgeon will then remove excess fat and skin from your upper or lower lip, depending on what part of your mouth needs correction. Fat injections can also be used to fill out areas that have lost volume over time due to aging or weight loss.

What Is The Mouth Lift

 Lip Lift is a simple, in-office surgical procedure to elevate the upper lip. The upper lip gets longer with age and contributes to a droopy, tired appearance. In these patients, filler just weighs the lip down more and makes the problem worse! The lip lift can either shorten the distance between the nose and mouth to give a subtle, beautiful lift or it can increase the amount of “red show” for a lip that is naturally very thin. It can also be helpful in younger patients as well. This can be performed on its own or in conjunction with other procedures like a Facelift, Eyelid Lift, etc.

What are the benefits of a lip lift?

There are multiple benefits to a properly performed lip lift procedure. As we age the upper lip tends to stretch and lengthen with gravity,much like other parts of your face. This usually results in the red part of the lip “rolling” inward which gives the appearance of thinning. Additionally, the upper lip falls downward and covers the upper teeth which can make the mouth appear older.  By shortening the upper lip these changes are reversed and the midface takes on a lifted and more rejuvenated appearance. The increased “red show” also provides the lip with a permanent look of greater fullness, which is often desirable in young patients as well.

We’re as thrilled with our patients’ results as they are. Check out our before-and-after photo gallery and see for yourself the kind of work our talented surgeons do.

What techniques are used for a lip lift?

There are several techniques that have been used over the years to perform a lip lift. Original descriptions involve removing skin just above the lip, where the pink portion meets your skin. This can be done across the central part of the lip (the “cupid’s bow”), or at the corners depending on which parts need to be lifted. More modern techniques place the incision just under your nose, allowing the resultant scar to be less visible. A small strip of skin is removed and the area is carefully closed with sutures. The “modified” upper lip lift is the most advanced technique to date and includes more release of the lip and more stable suspension to create a longer-lasting natural result.

Who is a good candidate for a lip lift?

You may be a good candidate for a lip lift if you feel the distance between your nose and lip is too long, or that the upper lip is relatively thin. Often, patients who are good candidates for a lip lift may have had a bad experience previously with lip fillers, which made the lips appear heavy and long instead of plump and balanced

What is the lip lift procedure like?

As mentioned above, the lip lift is a very simple and straightforward surgical procedure that can be done alone, or in combination with other facial procedures (rhinoplasty, facelift, etc). The procedure begins with skin markings on your upper lip based on the surgical plan you design with your surgeon. Next, numbing medicine is injected into the area similar to a dental procedure. Once ready, the necessary portion of skin just beneath the nose is gently removed and any light bleeding is controlled. The incision is then closed with many small sutures to create the most cosmetic result possible. Following the procedure, the area is kept covered with antibiotic ointment and sutures are removed starting several days later.

Is anesthesia required?

If a lip lift is the only procedure you are having performed then it can easily be done under just local anesthesia, much like a dental operation. However, if the lip lift is being combined with additional procedures that require deeper anesthesia, then it would simply be included in the overall plan.

How long does a lip lift last?

The results of a surgical lip lift are permanent, however, your lips and overall face will continue to mature. Normal aging changes should be expected.

What is recovery like after lip lift?

Immediately following the procedure the upper lip will be sore and swollen to varying degrees. Swelling typically gets worse for the first several days and, in some cases, can be dramatic. This is a normal part of healing and not dangerous. The incision is kept clean and covered with antibacterial ointment for the first week or so. Activity is restricted for several days and slowly re-introduced. Exercise and exertion should be avoided for approximately two weeks. The initial healing period is generally 2-3 weeks, with more enjoyable results settling in around 2-3 months later. The scar heals over several months to a year or more, improving with time.

All About Lip Lift Surgery, Including Types, Cost, and Recovery

You’ve likely already heard of lip injections, sometimes called fillers or lip implants. These procedures give that bee-stung look to the lips.

There’s another surgical procedure known as a lip lift that can give you a different kind of pout. Unlike lip fillers, it’s permanent.

Keep reading to learn more about lip lifts, including the different types, what the procedure and recovery are like, and whether you’re a good candidate.

What is a lip lift?

A lip lift is an in-office surgical procedure that shortens the space between the nose and the top of the lip, known as the “philtrum.”

The procedure increases the amount of pink tissue that’s visible which makes the lips look fuller and more pronounced. It also increases how much of your upper central teeth show when your lips are resting.

It’s a good option for people who want to add height instead of volume to their lips.

Types of lip lifts

There are several types of lip lifts. It’s important to know the types and techniques so you can have an informed discussion with your surgeon about which is right for you.

Direct lip lift

A direct lip lift, sometimes called a gullwing lip lift, creates a more defined lip border.

A thin strip of skin is removed just above the upper lip, and the skin is pulled upwards, creating the illusion of a more pronounced vermillion (the pink part of the lips).

This procedure typically leaves behind a scar on the upper lip area.

Subnasal bullhorn

The subnasal bullhorn is one of the more common lip lift procedures.

A surgeon will make an incision that’s typically hidden along the base of the nose where it’s less visible. The incision is often made in the shape of a bullhorn and the center, right, and left of the lip are all pulled up toward the nose.

Central lip lift

A central lip lift is similar to a subnasal bullhorn lift. It shortens the space between the nose and the lips by an incision at the lower nose.

Corner lip lift

A corner lip lift is sometimes called a “grin lift” because it gives the face a more smiley appearance.

It’s done by making two small incisions at both corners of the mouth and removing a small amount of skin. Some people will get this in tandem with another lip lift to give fuller lips.

It’s an option for people who feel they have downturned lips.

Italian lip lift

An Italian lip lift requires two incisions below each nostril, and other than that detail, it’s very similar to the bullhorn. It typically doesn’t involve a noticeable scar.

Who’s a good candidate for a lip lift?

A lip lift can be a good option for older people who want to reduce the space between the lips and the nose. With age, this space typically increases and can make lips look thinner.

Younger people who haven’t achieved the look they want from fillers, or if they find that fillers make their lips look unnaturally plump or duck-like, may prefer a lip lift.

Lip lifts are also a permanent solution, so they can be helpful for people who are tired of the upkeep of filler.

You’re not a good candidate if…

• you don’t have a lot of space between the base of your nose and the top of your lip (typically about 1.5 centimeters)
• you’re a smoker and you’re not willing or able to quit for the postsurgery healing period (about 2 to 4 weeks)

It’s a good idea to speak to your surgeon if you have diabetes or any other condition that affects your blood’s ability to clot, or if you have oral herpes.

Was this helpful?

What’s the procedure like?

There are several steps you should take to set you up for success before and after surgery.

Before surgery

Don’t eat or drink for 6 hours before surgery.

• Your doctor may have you stop smoking in the weeks before and after surgery, as smoking can affect anesthesiaTrusted Source.
• Don’t drink alcohol, which can interfere with anesthesia, for 48 hours beforehand.
• Up to 2 weeks beforehand, avoid aspirin and any blood thinning medications.

The lip lift procedure is done in a surgeon’s office and a patient will likely be given local anesthesia instead of general anesthesia because the pain isn’t too intense.

A small piece of skin will be removed from somewhere between the nose and mouth — the exact location will depend on what time of lip lift you’re getting. Sutures will be put on for up to a week after.

After surgery

• Plan to rest for 24 hours after the procedure.
• Avoid strenuous exercise and smoking in the weeks after.
• Avoid sleeping on your face or opening your mouth too wide.
• Use a small toothbrush and brush carefully.
• Keep your lips moisturized.
• Clean the incisions following the doctor’s recommendations.

Potential complications

As with all surgeries, lip lifts have some potential complications which is why it’s always essential to use a board-certified plastic surgeon.

Complications of plastic surgery include:

• scarring
• poor wound healing or scarring
• blood loss during or after surgery
• nerve damage
• allergic reactions to anesthesia

How much does a lip lift cost?

Because lip lifts are an elective cosmetic procedure, they’re not covered by insurance.

The cost of a lip lift varies depending on who performs the procedure and where you live. According to Aesthetic Edit, the procedure costs somewhere between $2,000 and $5,000.

It will also be more expensive if you’re getting a corner lip lift paired with another lift.

How to find a cosmetic surgeon

It’s essential to find a reputable, board-certified plastic surgeon to perform a lip lift.

Even though it’s a quick procedure done under local anesthesia, if your surgeon isn’t properly trained, it can be dangerous and unsanitary.

This online tool is a good resource for finding a reputable plastic surgeon near you.

Key takeaways

Lip lifts are an elective cosmetic surgery that can make the upper lift look larger and more pronounced. Unlike lip implants or injections, lip lifts are a permanent solution.

People looking for a more defined cupid’s bow without the “duck lip” look from implants or filler, or older people who want to reduce the thinning of the lips that can happen with age are good candidates for lip lifts.

Those who won’t be able to stop smoking for about 4 weeks postsurgery or those who have a smaller space between the nose and the mouth won’t be good candidates.

It’s essential to find a reputable plastic surgeon to perform the surgery and to follow the surgeon’s instructions before and after surgery.

Bullhorn Lip Lift: What You Need to Know

If you’re searching for an easy way to get fuller, more pronounced lips, the bullhorn lip lift may be just the solution for you!

Here’s what you need to know about this safe and effective surgery.  

What is a Bullhorn Lip Lift?

Also known as a subnasal lift, this popular, in-office surgical procedure shortens the space between the upper lip and nostrils, while rolling out the upper lip, making its pink tissue more visible. It can be customized to suit unique needs, and create more symmetrical, volumized lips.

A bullhorn lip lift produces long-lasting results, without repeat filler injections or follow-up treatments. Bullhorn refers to the shape of its incision: two connected, horizontal lines with upward edges under the nasal base.

Who’s a Good Candidate?

While bullhorn lip lifts are safe for most people, ideal candidates include those looking to add fullness to their lips, set them higher, or create a poutier appearance. People with smaller mouths, thinner lips, or broader nasal bases seeking a long-term alternative to lip injections will also benefit. 

The procedure may not be suitable for those who don’t have at least 1.5 centimeters between their lips and base of their nose. Certain diseases that affect the mouth, such as herpes, or conditions that impact blood clotting, could also disqualify people from surgery. The recovery process also requires patients abstain from smoking for two to four weeks, therefore those unwilling to quit following surgery may not be good fits. 

Discuss with your doctor or plastic surgeon whether the bullhorn lip lift is right for you.

How Do They Work?

Bullhorn refers to the shape of its incision: two connected, horizontal lines with upward edges under the nasal base.

The procedure entails making an incision at the philtrum, usually along the base of the nose, and pulling the lip upward in the recognizable shape of a bullhorn. Shortening the distance between the lips and nose creates a plumper, more appealing appearance.

What to Expect

You’ll be asked to refrain from consuming alcohol in the days before and after your surgery, as these can potentially interact with the anesthesia. Smoking or ingesting aspirin or blood-thinning medication could also impact the effectiveness of the anesthesia and impair your body’s ability to heal properly, so be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions regarding what steps to take beforehand.

A topical or local anesthesia will be applied during the surgery, and your doctor will clean the area before making an incision from one nostril to the other. They’ll cut a measured amount of skin and close the opening with stitches or sutures, usually keeping the slit as close to the base of the nose as possible to make any scarring less visible.

You’ll be advised to rest and avoid strenuous activities for at least 24 hours afterward, sleep on your face or with your mouth open, and avoid smoking and chewing gum. Your doctor may also provide a wound-cleaning regimen, to help heal properly.

It may take several weeks for scarring to become less prominent, and permanent, noticeable results should be achieved by the end of your recovery.

What Are Potential Risks & Side Effects?

The bullhorn lip lift is widely considered safe and effective, but as with most surgeries, there are always potential risks and complications. These can include: visible scarring, nerve damage, improper wound healing, an allergic reaction to anesthesia, or blood loss.

Be sure to contact your doctor if you experience any issues following your surgery.

What Does Recovery Entail & How Long Will It Last?

Typically, you can expect to resume your regular daily activities after about 24 hours, but you’ll be advised to avoid more strenuous activities for about a week or two. Your sutures may be removed about five days following your surgery. 

The recovery period usually lasts for about two weeks, during which time the swelling should completely subside.

How Much Does It Cost?

A bullhorn lip lift is generally a one-time cost, as the results are permanent. The procedure typically costs between $3,000 to $5,000, though exact pricing depends on the individual, and may encompass a package including silicone and laser treatment, for optimal healing.