You’ve probably come across the concept of lip injections, often referred to as fillers or lip lift. These treatments are designed to achieve a fuller, bee-stung appearance for the lips.
However, there exists an alternative surgical approach called a lip lift, which offers a distinct way to enhance your pout. Unlike lip fillers, the results of a lip lift are enduring.
Continue reading to delve into the world of lip lifts, including the various types available, insights into the procedure and recovery, and to determine whether this option is a suitable choice for you.
What is a lip lift?
A lip lift is a minor surgical procedure performed in an office setting, aiming to reduce the distance between the base of the nose and the upper lip, technically referred to as the “philtrum.”
This surgical intervention effectively enhances the prominence of the lips by increasing the visible pink tissue, resulting in a fuller and more pronounced appearance. Furthermore, it contributes to the increased visibility of the upper central teeth even when the lips are at rest.
It’s an ideal choice for individuals seeking to elevate the height of their lips, as opposed to merely adding volume.
Types of Lip Lifts
There are various types of lip lifts, and understanding these options and techniques is crucial for engaging in an informed discussion with your surgeon to determine the most suitable approach for your needs.
Direct Lip Lift
Also known as the “gullwing lip injections,” this technique emphasizes a well-defined lip border. It involves the removal of a thin strip of skin located just above the upper lip, followed by the upward pulling of the skin to create the illusion of a more pronounced vermillion, the pink part of the lips. It’s important to note that this procedure typically results in a scar in the upper lip area.
Subnasal Bullhorn
The subnasal bullhorn lip injections are among the more common methods. It entails making an incision that is usually concealed along the base of the nose for minimal visibility. The incision is often shaped like a bullhorn, with the central, right, and left areas of the lip all being gently lifted toward the nose.
Central Lip Lift
Similar to the subnasal bullhorn lift, the central lip injections also shortens the space between the nose and the lips but involves an incision at the lower part of the nose.
Corner Lip Lift
Often referred to as the “grin lift,” this procedure imparts a more cheerful, smiling appearance to the face. It is achieved by making two small incisions at the corners of the mouth and removing a small amount of skin. Some individuals opt for this in conjunction with another type of lip injection to achieve fuller lips. This method is particularly suitable for those with downturned lips.
Italian Lip Lift
The Italian lip lift entails two incisions below each nostril and closely resembles the bullhorn technique. Importantly, it typically leaves no noticeable scar.
Who makes an ideal candidate for a lip lift?
Lip lifts are an excellent option for older individuals seeking to reduce the increasing space between their lips and nose, a common effect of aging that can make lips appear thinner. Younger individuals, who haven’t achieved their desired look with fillers or find that fillers result in an unnatural, overly plump or duck-like appearance, may also prefer a lip injections. Moreover, lip injections offer a permanent solution, making them appealing to those who are weary of the ongoing maintenance that comes with fillers.
What you can expect in terms of the lip lift procedure?
Pre-Surgery Preparations
- Refrain from eating or drinking for a period of 6 hours before your scheduled surgery.
- Your surgeon may advise you to quit smoking in the weeks leading up to and following the surgery, as smoking can have an impact on anesthesia.
- Avoid alcohol consumption for at least 48 hours before the surgery, as it can interfere with the effectiveness of anesthesia.
- Starting up to 2 weeks before the procedure, steer clear of aspirin and any blood-thinning medications, as these can increase the risk of bleeding during surgery.
The lip injections typically take place in the surgeon’s office, and local anesthesia is generally administered instead of general anesthesia, given that the level of pain experienced is typically manageable. During the surgery, a small section of skin will be carefully removed from the area located between the nose and the mouth. The exact location of this removal will depend on the specific type of lip lift you’re receiving. Following the procedure, sutures will be applied, and these may need to remain in place for up to a week.
Post-Surgery Recovery
- Allocate a 24-hour period for rest immediately after the procedure.
- Avoid engaging in strenuous physical exercise and abstain from smoking in the weeks following the surgery.
- Be cautious about sleeping on your face or opening your mouth too wide.
- Use a small, soft toothbrush, and exercise caution while brushing your teeth.
- Ensure that your lips stay adequately moisturized to support the healing process.
- Adhere to the doctor’s recommendations regarding the cleaning of incision sites.
By adhering to these guidelines, you can help ensure a smoother and more successful lip lift experience, from both the preparatory and post-operative perspectives.
