Upper Lip Lift (Subnasal Lip Lift)
As we age, the upper lip gradually lengthens. When this occurs, less of the pink portion of the lip is visible, and the mouth may appear flatter, less defined, or less expressive. While injectable fillers can add volume, they cannot shorten an elongated upper lip. In some cases, adding filler alone may create an overfilled or disproportionate appearance.
For patients seeking natural rejuvenation without increasing lip size, an upper lip lift offers a refined surgical solution that restores balance, definition, and youthful proportion.
What It Addresses
The procedure is designed for patients who notice:
- A longer upper lip due to aging
- Less visible red lip
- A desire for a more youthful, balanced lip shape without added fullness
- Limitations from non-surgical options
Unlike fillers, a lip lift shortens the distance between the nose and the upper lip. This allows the natural curvature and color of the lip to be more visible, giving the mouth a refreshed, youthful appearance.
The Procedure
The Sweetheart Lip Lift is a carefully planned surgical approach that focuses on subtle, natural enhancement.
Thoughtful Incision
A small incision is created around the curves of the nostrils and beneath the nasal sill. This strategic placement helps the resulting scar blend with the natural shadows of the nose.
Precise Tissue Adjustment
A conservative amount of skin is removed to elevate the upper lip. The edges are then sutured with exceptional detail to support a nearly imperceptible scar.
What To Expect
Though the idea of surgery near the lip may feel intimidating, patients often find the procedure more approachable than expected.
- Performed with local anesthesia, with the option for light relaxing medication
- Mild discomfort during the early recovery period
- Sutures removed over the first week
- Swelling that improves steadily, often with prescription support
- Bruising that usually resolves within two weeks
Dr. Vipond does his utmost to ensure that this is an extremely powerful, but natural means of rejuvenating the mouth and upper lip area.
Recovery Timeline
Recovery is generally smooth and manageable.
- First few days: Many sutures are removed. Mild discomfort is common but not typically painful.
- End of week one: Remaining sutures are removed. Swelling is still present, but medication may be prescribed to help it resolve more quickly.
- By the second week: Any bruising usually fades. Swelling continues to decrease.
Lateral Lip Lift / Corner-of-the-Mouth Lift
In addition to the central upper lip lift, some patients benefit from a lateral lip lift, also known as a corner-of-the-mouth lift. This procedure addresses downturning at the corners of the mouth that can create a tired, sad, or stern expression.
A lateral lip lift may be used to:
- Elevate downturned mouth corners
- Improve symmetry of the smile
- Soften a resting frown appearance
- Enhance overall facial expression
When performed thoughtfully, this technique subtly improves the mouth’s resting position while preserving natural movement and expression. It may be performed alone or combined with an upper lip lift for balanced rejuvenation.
Double Board-Certified Facial Plastic Surgery Care
Lip surgery requires precision and a deep understanding of the delicate anatomy surrounding the mouth. As a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Gregory J. Vipond brings more than 18 years of focused facial experience to these highly detailed procedures. Having performed over 5,000 facial surgeries, he is committed to achieving results that feel natural, balanced, and aligned with each patient’s goals.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are considering a subtle, natural way to restore youthful lip proportion and expression, an upper lip lift or lateral lip lift may be a meaningful option. Contact VIP Facial Artistry to schedule a personal consultation and receive guidance tailored to your anatomy and goals.
Upper Lip Lift & Corner-of-the-Mouth Lift FAQs
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How is an upper lip lift different from lip filler?
Lip fillers add volume but do not lift an elongated upper lip. An upper lip lift repositions the lip itself, improving shape and visibility of the vermilion while avoiding an overfilled appearance.
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Will an upper lip lift make my lips look bigger?
The goal is not added bulk. An upper lip lift improves proportion and definition, making the lips look more youthful and expressive without increasing size.
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What is a lateral lip lift or corner-of-the-mouth lift?
A lateral lip lift elevates downturned mouth corners that can create a tired or sad appearance. It improves the resting expression and smile symmetry and may be performed alone or combined with an upper lip lift.
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Where is the incision placed, and will there be a visible scar?
The incision is placed along the natural curves beneath the nose (and, for lateral lifts, near the mouth corners). With careful design and closure, scars typically heal discreetly within natural shadows.
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What is recovery like after a lip lift?
Most patients experience mild swelling and discomfort early on. Sutures are removed over the first week, bruising usually resolves within two weeks, and swelling continues to improve thereafter.
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Are lip lift results permanent?
Lip lift results are long-lasting. While natural aging continues, restoring proper lip proportion provides durable improvement compared to non-surgical options.
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Can a lip lift be combined with other procedures?
Yes. Lip lifts are commonly combined with facial rejuvenation procedures such as blepharoplasty, facelift, or non-surgical treatments when appropriate.
