What Does a Lip Lift Actually Do?
Unlike injectable fillers, which add volume, a lip lift physically shortens the distance between the nose and the upper lip so that more of the lip becomes visible. The most common technique, sometimes called a bullhorn lift, removes a small strip of skin placed just beneath the nose in a crease that hides the scar well. The outcome is a more youthful lip position with a natural shape. If your lips have thinned and flattened with age, this subtle upward rotation can bring the lower face back into balance.
A lip lift may increase tooth show when smiling, which most Seattle patients find a welcome change rather than a concern. The procedure does not specifically address fine vertical lines around the mouth, though it pairs well with treatments like Redensity® injections or a laser peel for patients who want to address both.
Is This Procedure Right for You?
A lip lift is best suited to Seattle patients who have noticed a lengthening of the space above the upper lip and want a more lasting solution than repeat filler appointments. Because it produces a permanent structural change rather than a temporary one, the procedure appeals to patients who are tired of maintaining volume with injectables and want results that last. It is frequently performed alongside a facelift, but many patients choose it as a standalone procedure performed comfortably under local anesthesia. Injectable fillers such as RHA® or Juvéderm® can still be used alongside a lip lift when additional volume is desired, and Dr. Baxter and Dr. Gray will help you determine what combination makes the most sense for your face.
The amount of tissue removed is tailored to each patient’s anatomy and goals. Dr. Baxter and Dr. Gray will walk you through what the recovery involves — typically a week of swelling and some bruising near the nose — and what you can expect as the result settles in the weeks that follow. For those considering lip lift surgery, this conversation is an important part of planning.
N/a