What is a Lip Lift?
Lip lifts are designed for individuals who desire a more prominent upper lip with greater incisor show. This cosmetic issue is most commonly seen in older patients, as the upper lip tends to elongate over time. This elongation results in drooping and an inward roll of the lip, contributing to a thin appearance. However, some patients naturally have an elongated or thin upper lip, and a lip lift procedure can provide cosmetic improvement for patients of any age.
Evaluation
Evaluation begins with an assessment of the length of the upper lip, from the base of the nose to the vermillion border, commonly referred to as the “white lip.” While there is no absolute measurement, generally, if the white lip is more than 14 mm in length, a lip lift can offer improvement.
Benefits
Though the procedure does not physically add volume to the upper lip, it repositions the lip and rolls the upper border outward, giving the appearance of enhanced volume. Patients in their 20s, who are generally not experiencing volume loss in the lips, may have a naturally thin upper lip that can be enhanced with a lip lift procedure.
The Procedure
The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia in the office, eliminating the need for extensive anesthesia. It’s important to understand that a properly done lip lift requires tightening the supportive tissue of the lip, not just the skin, similar to a facelift. Therefore, choosing a surgeon experienced in modern lip lift techniques is crucial. An experienced surgeon will meticulously measure the lip to determine the precise amount of lift needed to enhance your appearance.
The Surgical Process
The incision is made under the nose, following the natural contour of the nasal sill. The precise amount of excess skin is removed, and the supportive tissues are exposed. Deep tissue tightening is then performed with supportive sutures, repositioning the lip to its new contour and length. The skin edges are closed under minimal tension with small sutures, which are removed in one week. When this incision heals, it becomes essentially invisible.
Who Can Benefit?
A lip lift can be cosmetically beneficial for patients from their 20s to their 80s if the upper lip is excessively long or appears thin due to a lack of support. Dr. Beaty will consult with you to assess whether this procedure can help you achieve your cosmetic goals.
Contact Us
Interested in learning more? Contact Dr. Beaty today to schedule a consultation and discover how a lip lift can enhance your natural beauty.
