Patient in medical consultation, doctor examining face

Upper Lip Lift

Enhance Your Smile and Shorten the Distance Between the Nose and Upper Lip

An upper lip lift is a procedure designed to shorten the distance between the upper lip and the nose, giving the face a more youthful and balanced appearance. Depending on the technique used, the surgeon can choose between direct, indirect, or lateral approaches to best suit the patient’s needs. Each method offers unique advantages in achieving an enhanced lip shape and a more defined smile.

  • Direct Upper Lip Lift: Involves a small incision beneath the nose, removing a strip of skin to lift the upper lip.

  • Indirect Upper Lip Lift: Focuses on lifting the lip without visible incisions, using a different approach to enhance the upper lip's position and shape.

  • Lateral Upper Lip Lift: Targets the outer portions of the lip, enhancing lip symmetry and creating a more pronounced smile.

Procedure Time: 30–60 minutes
Anaesthesia: Local anaesthesia with sedation or general anaesthesia
Downtime/Recovery: 1–2 weeks

Key Benefits

  • Shortens the distance between the upper lip and the nose for a more youthful appearance.

  • Enhances lip fullness and visibility, especially for those with thin or aging lips.

  • Improves facial balance and harmony.

  • Minimal visible scarring due to incision placement.

  • Permanent results with a relatively quick recovery time.

  • Initial Consultation

    • A consultation with the surgeon to discuss your aesthetic goals and determine the most suitable technique for your face.

    • Evaluation of facial proportions and the lip-to-nose ratio to create a tailored approach.

    Anaesthesia and Preparation

    • Local anaesthesia with sedation or general anaesthesia is administered for your comfort.

    • The area around the upper lip is marked to ensure precise incision placement.

    Surgical Procedure

    • A small incision is made along the natural crease of the nose, allowing for the removal of a strip of skin.

    • The upper lip is lifted, and the incision is closed with dissolvable stitches.

    • The procedure results in a subtle lift that enhances the overall appearance of the lips.

      • Aftercare instructions are provided, including recommendations for managing swelling and avoiding certain activities that may affect healing.

      • A follow-up appointment is scheduled to monitor healing and ensure optimal results.

    • Will the incision be visible after the procedure?
      The incision is placed along the natural fold under the nose, making it discreet and hard to notice once healed.

    • How long will it take to see the final results?
      The swelling will subside in about 1–2 weeks, with the full results visible after 3–6 months as the tissue settles.

    • Is the procedure painful?
      Most patients experience minimal discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed pain relief.

    • How long does the recovery take?
      Recovery typically takes 1–2 weeks, with any swelling or bruising improving within this time frame.

  • Absolutely life-changing results! John Blythe is truly an artist in facial surgery.

    Sarah M

  • The whole experience was seamless from start to finish. My confidence has skyrocketed!

    James T

  • I couldn’t be happier with my eyelid surgery. The results are natural, and I look so much fresher.

    Emily R