What Is a Lip Lift, and How Can It Enhance Your Appearance?

As we age, the distance between the base of the nose and the upper lip lengthens, leading to a less defined upper lip and a reduction in visible red lip tissue. For some individuals, this creates a thin, elongated lip that can make their face appear older or less vibrant. A lip lift is a surgical procedure designed to shorten the space between the upper lip and the nose, creating a fuller, more youthful appearance. This procedure enhances the Cupid’s bow and increases the visibility of the upper lip, resulting in a more balanced, aesthetically pleasing look. Unlike lip fillers, which add volume temporarily, a lip lift provides a permanent enhancement that can help restore a youthful smile and facial symmetry.

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Benefits of a Lip Lift Procedure

A lip lift can offer several aesthetic improvements, such as:

  • A fuller, more defined upper lip
  • Increased visibility of the teeth when smiling
  • Enhanced Cupid’s bow and lip shape
  • Permanent results without the need for ongoing fillers
  • A more youthful, balanced appearance

This procedure is especially beneficial for patients who want to enhance their upper lip without the use of fillers, or for those who desire a permanent solution for a more prominent and lifted lip contour.

Are You a Good Candidate for a Lip Lift?

A lip lift is ideal for individuals who feel that their upper lip appears thin, elongated, or lacks definition. Good candidates typically have a longer-than-average distance between the nose and upper lip, or have noticed a decrease in lip volume and definition with age. During your consultation with Dr. Leong, he will carefully evaluate your facial proportions and lip structure to determine whether a lip lift is right for you. Ideal candidates for this procedure are often:

  • In good overall health
  • Non-smokers or those willing to quit smoking prior to surgery
  • Interested in permanent results rather than temporary fillers
  • Seeking to enhance their natural beauty with subtle, long-lasting improvements

By assessing your specific facial anatomy and aesthetic goals, Dr. Leong will create a personalized treatment plan that ensures optimal, natural-looking results.

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Lip Lift Before & After

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What Happens During Your Lip Lift Consultation?

During your consultation, Dr. Leong will take the time to understand your concerns and goals for the procedure. He will explain the different types of lip lift techniques and how they can be tailored to enhance your unique facial features. You will have the opportunity to discuss your ideal results, view before and after photos, and learn more about the recovery process. Dr. Leong believes in providing patients with honest and transparent information, so you’ll feel fully prepared to make an informed decision about your lip lift procedure.

Types of Lip Lift Procedures at Leong Facial Plastic Surgery

There are different types of lip lifts, each designed to achieve specific goals depending on your anatomy and desired outcome. Dr. Leong will recommend the best technique based on your facial structure and aesthetic preferences.

Bullhorn (Subnasal) Lip Lift

The most common type of lip lift, this technique involves making a small incision along the base of the nose to remove a strip of skin and lift the upper lip. The result is a more pronounced and visible upper lip, enhancing both the lip shape and the overall balance of the face.

Corner Lip Lift

If the corners of your lips naturally droop or you have a “downturned” smile, a corner lip lift can correct this. Small incisions are made at the outer edges of the lips to lift the corners and create a more cheerful, youthful expression.

Italian Lip Lift

This variation of the bullhorn lip lift involves two smaller incisions at the base of the nostrils, lifting the lip in a more subtle, controlled way. This technique may be ideal for patients who need a less dramatic change but still want enhanced lip definition.

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The Lip Lift Procedure: What to Expect

On the day of your lip lift, local anesthesia is typically used to ensure comfort throughout the procedure. For more extensive treatments or patients who prefer, IV sedation may also be an option. The surgery usually takes around 1 to 2 hours, depending on the specific technique being used. Dr. Leong will make small, carefully placed incisions to lift the upper lip and remove a small strip of skin as necessary. 

The incisions are discreetly hidden in the natural creases at the base of the nose, making scarring minimal and nearly invisible once healed. After the procedure, you may experience mild swelling and bruising, which typically subsides within a few days. Most patients can resume light activities after 1 week, with full recovery taking 2 to 3 weeks. Dr. Leong will provide detailed post-operative care instructions to help ensure a smooth recovery process.

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Recovery and Long-Term Results From a Lip Lift

The recovery process after a lip lift is generally straightforward, with most patients returning to normal activities within a week. While swelling and bruising may be present initially, these side effects gradually fade, revealing your new, lifted lip contour.

One of the greatest benefits of a lip lift is that the results are long-lasting. Unlike lip fillers, which require maintenance treatments, a lip lift offers a permanent improvement to your upper lip’s shape and position. The result is a more youthful, attractive smile that enhances your natural beauty.

How Much Does a Lip Lift Cost in NYC?

The cost of a lip lift in NYC can vary depending on the technique used and the complexity of the procedure. During your consultation, Dr. Leong will provide you with a personalized quote and discuss any financing options that may be available to help make the procedure more affordable.

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Financing Your Lip Lift Procedure

Since a lip lift is considered a cosmetic procedure, it is not typically covered by insurance. However, Leong Facial Plastic Surgery offers flexible financing options to help make the cost more manageable. We accept various forms of payment, including CareCredit, cash, checks, and all major credit cards. If you have questions about pricing or payment options, our patient care team is here to assist you.

Why Choose Leong Facial Plastic Surgery for Your Lip Lift?

At Leong Facial Plastic Surgery, we are dedicated to delivering honest, transparent care that helps patients feel confident in their decision-making. Dr. Paul Leong’s extensive experience and focus on natural, balanced results ensure that your lip lift enhances your unique beauty without looking overdone. We believe in creating a personalized experience for each patient, ensuring that your goals are met with expert precision and care. When you trust your face to Dr. Leong, you are choosing a specialist who prioritizes your aesthetic harmony and overall satisfaction.

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Enhance Your Smile With Natural-Looking Results

If you’re ready to enhance your smile and achieve lasting lip enhancement with a lip lift in NYC, contact Leong Facial Plastic Surgery today to schedule your consultation. Dr. Paul Leong is here to help you achieve your aesthetic goals with confidence.

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