Suitable Candidate for Lip Lift Surgery
Suitable candidates for a lip lift are individuals who notice a decrease in lip fullness or a lengthening of the philtrum with age and desiring more defined lips without the use of non-surgical treatments. To be eligible for lip lift surgery they should meet the following criteria:
- Physical Health: Be in good overall health with no underlying medical conditions that could interfere with the wound healing process.
- Emotional Well-being: Have realistic expectations and a positive mindset regarding the outcomes of mastopexy surgery. As of 1st of July 2023, patients are required to have a psychological evaluation to ensure they are suitable to proceed with surgery.
- Non-smoker: Smoking or vaping dramatically interferes with the healing process and increases the risk of complications. Therefore, candidates are required to cease smoking for a minimum 6 weeks before and after the surgery
Understanding the Lip Lift
Dr Turner aims to shed light on the intricacies of lip lift surgery, providing you with insights into the various lip lift techniques, candidate suitability, and what to expect during recovery.
What Are the Different Types of Lip Lifts?
Lip lift surgery involves modifying the shape and position of the lips by removing skin under the nasal base to create a fuller lip appearance. This procedure can be especially effective for those who feel their upper lip is too long or desire more visible and prominent lips without resorting to fillers.
01.
Bullhorn Lip Lift
The subnasal bullhorn is the most performed lip lift procedure. This method involves making the incision along the natural curves of the base of the nose, which often resembles the shape of a bull’s horn. Next a small strip of skin is removed to shorten the upper lip length to approximately 15mm from the incision to the upper lip red vermillion border. As most of the lift occurs in the centre of the upper lip, the cupids bow becomes pronounced, giving the appearance of lip augmentation without any injectable products.
02.
Corner Lip Lift
The corner lip lift focuses on elevating the outer corners of the mouth. By small incisions placed along the red vermillion border at the corners of the upper lip and a small amount of skin is removed, lift corners of the lips. The corner lip lift is often performed in conjunction with other lip procedures to enhance overall shape and symmetry of the upper lip.
03.
Direct Lip Lift
The direct lip lift involves making an incision just above the red vermillion border of the upper lip. While it is less commonly performed due to the visible scarring, this technique can provide significant benefits for individuals with thin lips by increasing lip height and eversion. It’s crucial to discuss with Dr. Turner whether this method aligns with your aesthetic goals and skin type.
Lip Lift vs. Lip Flip
A lip flip uses injections to relax the action of the muscles around the upper lip, causing the red lip to ‘flip’ or roll outwards, resulting a fuller and more prominent upper lip. Unlike a surgical lip lift, a lip flip is temporary and offers subtle results compared to the permanent and more pronounced changes from a lip lift surgery. Also, there is no shortening of the upper lip length with a non-surgical lip flip.
Lip Lift vs. Lip Augmentation
Lip augmentation is designed to improve lip volume by either fat transfer or tissue grafting (SMAS graft) during a surgical facelift procedure or non-surgically with injectable products. While both procedures aim to enhance the lips appearance, a lip lift changes the position and shape of the lip, whereas lip augmentation increases volume without altering the upper lip structure. Lip augmentation can be a great complement to a lip lift for those seeking additional plumpness.
How Is a Lip Lift Surgery Performed?
If lip lift surgery is undertaken as a single procedure, it is performed under local anaesthesia in Dr Turner’s Manly clinic, however if it is part of a facelift procedure like vertical restore, it is performed under general anaesthesia in a fully accredited hospital with the assistance of a qualified anaesthetist.
The procedure begins with careful marking of the incision along the base of the nasal contours. Dr Turner will mark the amount of skin to be removed to leave adequate upper lip length of approximately 15mm. Next Dr Turner will infiltrate local anaesthetic into the upper lip to minimize bleeding and discomfort after the procedure is completed.
Once the incision under the nose is made, Dr Turner will remove a small strip of skin, and the remaining skin is carefully sutured to lift the lip to the desired position. The procedure typically hour, and patients can usually return home the same day.
Recovery After Lip Lift Surgery
Recovery from a lip lift surgery is a gradual process, with initial swelling and bruising subsiding within the first week. Dr Turner will review patients at 1 week in clinic, to assess wound healing and remove any sutures. Most patients can resume regular activities within a week, though complete healing and final results may take a few months.
Dr. Turner offers personalized post-operative care, emphasizing the importance of following instructions to manage discomfort, minimize swelling, and ensure smooth recovery. Following all post-operative care, including protecting the skin from sun exposure, is vital to prevent complications and achieve lasting results.
Risks and Complications of Lip Lift Surgery
Like any surgical procedure, lip lift surgery carries certain risks and potential complications. It is important for patients to be fully aware of these before deciding to undergo surgery. Dr. Turner will discuss them in detail during your consultation, ensuring you have realistic expectations and a clear understanding of the potential outcomes.
Common risks include infection, bleeding, scarring, asymmetry, and temporary numbness or swelling, which typically subside during recovery. Adhering to post-operative care instructions is essential for minimizing complications and ensuring a smooth recovery.
