Should I do a lip lift? How much skin would you remove in that case? (Photo)

Question

I was wondering if my anatomy was suitable for a liplift. As you can se in the picture my philtrum is not straight. And if you would do a lip lift how much skin would you take? My chin is 36mm and my philtrum is 20mm.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Deciding whether a lip lift is suitable for you involves a detailed assessment of your facial anatomy and aesthetic goals. Here are a few considerations and general advice:

1. Suitability for a Lip Lift:

A lip lift can be beneficial if you wish to shorten the philtrum (the space between your upper lip and nose) and enhance the appearance of your upper lip. It can provide a more youthful and balanced look.
2. Assessment of Anatomy:

Your philtrum length of 20mm and chin measurement of 36mm are helpful metrics. Typically, a philtrum length of around 12-15mm is considered ideal for females, though this varies with individual facial proportions and preferences.
3. Amount of Skin to Remove:

The amount of skin to remove is determined by your desired outcome and the natural elasticity of your skin. Generally, surgeons remove 5-7mm of skin, but this can vary based on individual anatomy and goals. It's crucial for this to be assessed in person by a skilled plastic surgeon.
4. Consultation with a Specialist:

Schedule a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can provide a thorough evaluation. They will assess your facial structure, discuss your aesthetic goals, and determine the appropriate amount of skin to remove if a lip lift is recommended.
5. Considerations:

Discuss potential scarring, recovery time, and risks associated with the procedure. Ensure you understand the realistic outcomes and how they align with your expectations.
6. Alternatives:

If you're uncertain about surgery, consider non-surgical options like fillers to enhance lip volume and shape, though these will not reduce philtrum length.
Ultimately, a personal consultation is vital to determine the best approach for your specific needs. If you have further questions or need assistance finding a qualified surgeon, feel free to reach out.

Caitlin Iorio, MD · Answer

You are an excellent candidate for a lip lift. The asymmetry could also be addressed at the same time as the procedure. With 20mm, I would recommend excising a minimum of 5mm of skin.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

You would benefit from a lip lift with approximately 10 mm taken out laterally and about 4 mm taken out 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.

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