Lip Lift
Visually elevate the upper lip, show more red tones, and subtly reveal the row of teeth - precise, natural, and tailored to your facial harmony.
Overview of the treatment
The most important facts
Operation Duration: approx. 45–90 min.
Anesthesia: Local anesthesia ± sedation (general anesthesia upon request)
Thread pull: approx. Day 5–7
Suitable if...
the upper lip appears and little lip color is visible.
in a resting state hardly any teeth row can be seen and you desire a fresher expression.
Fillers do not bring the desired effect (or appeared unnatural).
Avoiding smoking, sun protection, and consistent follow-up care are possible.
Note: With significantly downturned corners of the mouth, a corner lift can be additionally useful – we will clarify this in the consultation.
Methods & Variants
Subnasal Lip Lift (“Bullhorn”) – Standard
Incision directly at the base of the nose in the natural shadow lines; a narrow strip of skin is removed, the upper lip is lifted, and the proportion of the vermilion increases. Goal: natural ratio of the nasal base to the upper lip without overcorrection.
Italian/Segmented Lift (selective)
Two short incisions near the nostrils, if a central lift is desired and the midsection should remain dominant. Indication is individual.
Corner Lift (mouth corner lift, optional)
Small incisions in the area of the mouth corners, if they permanently point downwards. Can be combined with the subnasal lift or planned separately.
Vermilion Advancement (rare)
Incision at the vermilion border – visible, therefore only in case of clear indication. We prioritize discreet scar placement.
Which variant fits, we decide after measuring, skin/tissues and desired effect – focus: natural & proportional.
Process – Step by Step
Consultation
We discuss wishes and concerns, analyze upper lip length, vermilion, philtral columns, and tooth display at rest. We explain possibilities and limits as well as scars, healing process, and realistic results – calm and transparent.
Preparation
Photo documentation, precise marking while seated, information, notes on blood thinners/medication, cooling, sun protection, and behavior in the first days. Organization of follow-up appointments.
Treatment/Surgery
Under local anesthesia (if necessary, sedation), the fine incision at the base of the nose is made, removal of a narrow strip of skin, precise lifting and shaping of the upper lip; low-tension closure with fine stitches. If needed, corner lift can be added.
First Aftercare
Targeted cooling intervals, rest, and elevating the head. Suture removal on days 5–7, silicone/sun protection for the scar once approved, scar care/massage depending on healing. Makeup around the area after medical approval.
Healing process
After a few days, swelling and bruising subside; the stitch removal occurs after about 5–7 days.
After two to four weeks, the area appears socially acceptable; the scar may still appear pink.
After three to six months, the scar becomes flatter and paler; sensation/mobility normalize.
After twelve months, the final result shows.
Risks & Safety
Short-term swelling, bruising, feeling of tension and temporary changes in sensitivity in the area of the upper lip are normal. Specifically, asymmetries, under- or overcorrection, scarring issues, changes in the nasal base, or pulling at the corners of the mouth may occur; rarely healing disturbances – especially with nicotine. We minimize risks through careful marking, tissue-conserving techniques, low-tension closure, consistent scar care/sunscreen, and close monitoring.
You can support the healing process by abstaining from smoking, resting, following the care plan, and being patient – the scar matures over months. If you notice warning signs (strong unilateral redness, increasing pain, fever), please contact us immediately – you have a clear emergency protocol.
Combinations & Alternatives (optional)
Hyaluron/Fat Grafting for Fine Contouring (Philtrum Columns, Cupid’s Bow) – staggered over time
Corner Lift for downturned Mouth Corners
*Botulinum ("Lip Flip") for a delicate Eversion Effect (as a supplement)
Dental/Lip Red Aesthetics (interdisciplinary if needed)
