The Condition
The upper lip lengthens and flattens with age, reducing visible pink lip show. The distance between the nose and lip vermilion (philtrum length) increases. Loss of the cupid's bow contour and dental show at rest further contributes to facial ageing. Lip fillers may temporarily restore volume but do not address the underlying change in position.
Surgical Options
Subnasal (bullhorn) lip lift: An ellipse of skin removed beneath the nose, raising the lip and increasing pink show. Incision concealed within the natural shadow of the nasal base. Most commonly performed technique.
Corner lip lift: Small excisions at the oral commissures to elevate the corners of the mouth. Addresses a downturned mouth. Can be combined with subnasal lip lift.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Not everyone considering lip enhancement is best served by a lip lift — patients wanting reversible or temporary volume change are generally better suited to filler, which Mr Naparus does not offer but can discuss the trade-offs of.
Indications: A long or flattened upper lip with reduced pink show at rest; a desire for a permanent result rather than repeated filler treatments; realistic expectations of a subtle, natural change.
Contraindications: An already short upper lip or excessive dental show at rest; active smoking (impairs healing of the fine incision); unrealistic expectations of a dramatically fuller lip, which this procedure does not primarily achieve.
The Procedure
Performed under local anaesthetic or light sedation as a day-case procedure. Operating time 30–60 minutes. Mr Naparus has considerable experience in performing this procedure under local anaesthetic, ensuring comfort throughout. Fine sutures are removed at 5–7 days.
Risks & Complications
Scarring
Most common concern; scar typically fades well within 3–6 months. Meticulous closure technique critical.
Over-correction
Excessive shortening gives unnatural appearance; conservative excision preferred — can always be revised.
Asymmetry
Minor asymmetry possible; usually imperceptible at 3 months.
Numbness
Temporary altered sensation of upper lip; usually resolves within weeks.
Aftercare & Recovery
- Shower after 48 hours; avoid submerging face
- Sutures removed at 5–7 days
- Avoid wide mouth opening and vigorous chewing for 1–2 weeks
- Return to work: 5–7 days (non-public-facing), 1–2 weeks otherwise
- Exercise: light at 1 week; strenuous at 3 weeks
- Swimming: 2 weeks post-healing
- Full scar maturation: 6–12 months
Absorbable sutures (Vicryl Rapide, Monocryl) dissolve over days to weeks. Non-absorbable sutures (Prolene, nylon) are removed at 5–7 days on the face or 10–14 days elsewhere. You will be clearly advised which has been used.
Micropore tape: applied along scars to reduce tension; used for several weeks post-healing. Silicone tape/sheets: reduce scar thickness and redness; commenced 2–4 weeks postoperatively. Prineo: mesh/glue system for longer incisions; removed at 7–14 days. Non-adherent dressings used in early healing phase.