Lip Lift Post Operative Care

This page provides post-operative instructions for patients who have had lip lift surgery with Dr Roth. Please read it carefully before your operation.

Wound Care

Apply the prescribed antibiotic ointment to the incision three times daily using a cotton bud, cleaning away any dry blood or crusting that develops. After 48 hours the wound edges are waterproof — you may gently sponge the wound when bathing and pat it dry, then reapply the ointment.

Suture Removal

Sutures are removed at the follow-up appointment scheduled for approximately five to seven days after surgery. It is important to attend on the correct day.

Pain Management

Paracetamol and ibuprofen are appropriate for post-operative pain management. Take as needed. Avoid aspirin-containing products.

What to Expect

Minor bleeding is normal, particularly with movement. If bleeding occurs, apply gentle pressure over the wound for 15 minutes — this will stop it in almost all cases. Minor swelling is expected. Swelling associated with increasing pain, redness, fever, or sweats may indicate infection — contact the rooms if this occurs.

Activity Restrictions

Avoid excessive movement of the wound area for three weeks — this includes heavy lifting, jogging, swimming, and any strenuous activity. Excessive movement can cause the wound to break open or the scar to widen.

Avoid sun exposure on the scar for at least three months and apply SPF 30+ sunscreen daily. UV exposure on a healing lip lift scar causes hyperpigmentation that can persist for an extended period.