Lip Lift
A youthful smile often reveals a balanced upper lip and a subtle show of the upper teeth. As we age (or for those naturally born with a more extended upper lip), the distance between the nose and the vermilion border may lengthen, giving the lips a thinner or aged appearance. A lip lift surgery shortens this space and redefines the cupid’s bow, creating a more youthful, harmonious expression.
At Warrington Facial Plastic Surgery, Dr. Stephanie Warrington offers advanced lip lift techniques, including the subnasal lip lift (also known as the bullhorn lip lift), the corner lip lift, and the central lip lift. Each lip lift procedure is customized to your unique facial structure and individual goals. Unlike temporary lip fillers, a lip lift is a surgical procedure that delivers permanent improvement in lip fullness, balance, and contour.
Shortens the distance between the nose and upper lip for a more youthful, balanced appearance.
Includes bullhorn (subnasal) lip lift, corner lip lift, direct lip lift, and Italian lip lift.
Typically performed under local anesthesia; sometimes general anesthesia for combined procedures.
A straightforward surgical procedure, typically performed in less than 1 hour.
Lip lift results are permanent, offering a refined and natural look.
A lip lift is a type of aesthetic plastic surgery that reshapes and elevates the upper lip to enhance balance and harmony in the facial anatomy. By removing a small strip of skin just beneath the nose or near the corners of the mouth, the lip lift procedure shortens the distance to reveal more of the red lip and improve the definition of the cupid’s bow.
Unlike lip augmentation procedures such as lip injections, injectable fillers, or lip implants, which temporarily increase lip volume, a lip lift is a permanent option that creates long-term improvement in lip enhancement and overall facial rejuvenation.
A lip lift surgery is a relatively simple, safe surgical procedure:
Many patients combine a lip lift with other facial rejuvenation procedures, such as a neck lift or chin augmentation, for comprehensive results.
A lip lift procedure can correct a variety of concerns, including:
A surgical lip lift offers numerous benefits that surpass those of temporary treatments. It creates a shorter upper lip, establishing a youthful balance between the nose and mouth, and permanently enhances the natural lip line and volume. The procedure also defines the cupid’s bow for a more elegant look, lifts drooping corners of the mouth for a subtle smile lift, and provides natural-looking results without the risk of "duck lips" often associated with overfilled lip augmentation. Furthermore, a lip lift can complement other facial rejuvenation procedures such as eyelid surgery, brow lift, or facelift.
You may be a good candidate for lip lift surgery if you:
Older patients or those who have tried lip fillers but want more lasting change are often excellent candidates.
Recovery from a lip lift surgery is typically smooth, with mild swelling and bruising for the first few days. Keeping the head elevated and using cold compresses can minimize swelling. A soft diet is initially recommended to avoid tension on the incision site. Sutures are usually removed within 5–7 days, and most patients resume social activities within 1–2 weeks. The lip lift scar fades over time and becomes less visible as the area is fully healed.
Lip lift results are almost immediately visible, with further refinement as swelling resolves. Patients can expect a shorter upper lip that reveals more upper teeth when smiling, enhanced lip fullness, and a more youthful contour. The procedure creates a natural balance with surrounding facial features and offers permanent improvements, unlike lip fillers or lip injections. The results also harmonize beautifully with other facial rejuvenation procedures.
At Warrington Facial Plastic Surgery, your lip lift procedure is performed exclusively by Dr. Stephanie Warrington, a fellowship-trained facial plastic surgeon and board-certified ENT. With advanced training in aesthetic plastic surgery and a deep understanding of facial anatomy, Dr. Warrington customizes each lip lift technique to achieve elegant, natural, and balanced results. Her expertise ensures patients achieve lasting improvements in lip enhancement with safety and artistry at the forefront.
Yes. A lip lift is a surgical solution that offers long-lasting results, unlike temporary lip fillers or a lip flip.
A small lip lift scar will be present at the incision site, but it usually heals discreetly in the natural crease beneath the nose.
The right lip lift technique depends on your anatomy and goals. Options include the subnasal lip lift, corner lip lift, central lip lift, direct lip lift, and Italian lip lift.
Lip lift cost varies depending on the type of procedure and whether it’s combined with other procedures. A personalized estimate is provided during consultation.
Yes. Lip augmentation procedures, such as lip fillers, can be used after surgery for subtle adjustments. However, many patients find that a surgical lip lift eliminates their need for additional volume.
