Lip lift. Should I get a little extra skin taken off to account for the final settling of the tissue?

The most important thing about a lip lift is not over excising centrally. If this is done then it results in the "bunny look" so it is more important to take skin laterally not centrally. A lip lift does 4 things: shortens the distance between your nose and upper lip, increases the mucosa of the upper lip, increases the incisor show and pulls up the corners. This takes 1 hour to perform under local anesthesia and costs $3,000.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Thank you for your inquiry! I recommend scheduling a consultation appointment with a board certified plastic surgeon like myself so we can assess your face/lips, listen to your goals, and create a surgical plan that is best for you and your goals!

It is important to be conservative with lip lifts. This is not a procedure you should remove extra skin as this would leave you with a gummy smile.

When considering a lip lift, especially at the age of 65, it's important to discuss your goals and concerns with your surgeon. Here are a few factors to consider:

Tissue Settling: It's common for some settling to occur after a lip lift. Surgeons often account for this by removing a slightly greater amount of skin than what might initially seem necessary. However, the amount should be carefully assessed to avoid overcorrection.

Aging Process: As we age, skin loses elasticity and volume. While a lip lift can provide a more youthful appearance, it won't stop the natural aging process. Discuss with your surgeon how the procedure can be tailored to achieve lasting results while considering future changes.

Surgeon’s Expertise: Your surgeon's experience and technique are crucial. A skilled surgeon will be able to balance removing enough tissue to achieve the desired outcome while accounting for natural settling and aging.

Personal Goals: Clearly communicate your aesthetic goals and any concerns you have about aging or settling with your surgeon. This will help them tailor the procedure to meet your expectations.

Ultimately, a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon or a facial plastic surgeon is essential. They can provide personalized advice based on an examination of your facial structure and skin characteristics.