Pre Operative Lip Lift Information
You can download this information above as a printable .pdf file here: Lip lift pre-op
A lip lift procedure can provide long term rejuvenation of the aged upper lip or improve the
upper lip appearance in patients born with naturally thin lips. A lip lift creates a fuller, poutier
upper lip and decreases the distance from the lip to the nose.
Unfortunately the upper lip tends to elongate with age leading to a longer “white lip” and a
thinner “red lip”. In severe cases this can make the upper lip look somewhat “ape-like” or
Simian. This lengthening is due to gravity and a loss of skin and muscle elasticity resisting
the gravity. Genetic factors and lifelong sun exposure play a role in skin elasticity.
Some of the benefits of a lip lift include:
1. Enhanced lip definition: A lip lift can help to enhance the definition of the lips,
making them appear fuller and more prominent.
2. Improved lip shape: The procedure can also help to improve the shape of the lips,
creating a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.
3. Reduced signs of aging: As we age, the distance between the nose and upper lip can
increase, making the lips appear thinner and less defined. A lip lift can help to reverse
this effect, giving a more youthful appearance.
4. Shorter recovery time: Lip lift surgery is typically a quick procedure with a relatively
short recovery time compared to other cosmetic surgeries.
5. Long-lasting results: The results of a lip lift can last for several years, making it a
worthwhile investment for those seeking a more permanent solution for lip
enhancement.
Lip rejuvenation and augmentation remains a very popular facial plastic surgery
procedure. A survey by the American Academy of Facial and Reconstructive Surgery in
2014 found that lip augmentation was one of the most common facial plastic procedures
performed.
A lip lift avoids the need for lip implants or lip filler injections. These are alternative
treatments to this area.
The procedure shortens the “white lip” and enlarges the “red lip”. It can also be used to
shorten a long lip which is hanging over the upper teeth and obscuring them. It is a frequent
add on procedure when performing a facelift but can also be performed as an independent
procedure.
A lip lift can be performed in both younger and older patients.
Bullhorn lip lift
The most famous and successful type of lip lift procedure is the Bullhorn lip lift. This
involves placing a small incision just under the nose and removing a strip of skin in the shape
of a bull horn. The skin excision can be designed to different lengths and can remove more
from either side portions or central portion if needed to improve symmetry.
The procedure can be done under local anaesthesia but in Australia is usually performed
under general anaesthesia for the best results and for patient comfort. The surgeon needs to
be obsessive about very precise markings to ensure the highest likelihood of symmetry across
the lip. Two layers of stitches are used. The deeper layer of sutures dissolve. Surgery
typically takes around 60 minutes. The superficial stitches are removed after 1 week. Post – operative discomfort is usually minimal.
When planning the surgery typically 4-5mm of skin is removed. This can range from 3 to
8mm. A normal vermillion to nose length is 13-14mm. In patients seeking a more stylised
look, it may be set at 11-12mm. A very pouty upper lip would be achieved at 10mm. I
typically ask patients to lift the upper lip themselves to demonstrate the desired position and
how much teeth show they would like.
It’s important to note that every individual is unique and the results of a lip lift can vary.
To learn more about a lip lift procedure, please schedule a consultation with Dr Roth
