Would a lip lift using the Russian technique help me achieve my desired look out poutier and wider lips? (photos)

Question

I have quite thin natural lips, and I want to get something done to make them look 'poutier' (as in moving the vermillion border upwards on the top, and adding a bit of volume), and also a bit wider to balance my face (see pics), so I'm considering combining a lip lift with 1-1.5ml lip filler (Russian technique). Is this realistically achievable? I'm scared that they will just end up looking overfilled and duckish.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

A lip lift can shorten the space between the nose and upper lip, slightly everting the vermillion border upward for a more visible and poutier appearance. When combined with Russian technique filler, it’s possible to enhance both vertical height and shape definition without excessive forward projection. Achieving a natural, balanced look depends on conservative filler volume and precise technique. Overfilling can lead to the “duck” appearance you’re concerned about, so a measured, stepwise approach is key.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

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.  I recommend doing a lip lift first and if this does not satisfy your needs then you can consider the lip filler.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Anil R. Shah, MD · Answer

Hello! My name is Jessica, I am a physician assistant, and one of the providers at Aesthetic Skin in Winnetka and Chicago. This is a great question. A lip lift using the Russian technique could indeed help you achieve a poutier and wider lip appearance, depending on your specific goals and anatomy. The Russian lip lift technique focuses on enhancing the lip's volume and shape by strategically lifting and reshaping the upper lip. This technique aims to create a more defined, fuller look while maintaining a natural and aesthetically pleasing proportion. It involves removing a small strip of skin from just beneath the nose, which results in a lift that accentuates the lip’s natural curve and can make the lips appear more prominent and voluminous. I hope this helps and best of luck!

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

Upper lip fillers can create an outward turned appearance of the upper lip, but it’s not a lifting procedure by itself.
I see a lot of bad lip filler work being done because I see so many people who have obvious fillers, especially on people walking around with an upper lip that’s larger than their lower lip, which is highly abnormal.
I cannot emphasize enough, the importance of provider selection for these treatments.
Quality work should look natural and not look like someone has had intervention in my opinion.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom MD

Would a lip lift using the Russian technique help me achieve my desired look out poutier and wider lips? (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Getting a lift with fillers

Answer: Getting a lift with fillers

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Lip Fillers

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Would a lip lift using the Russian technique help me achieve my desired look out poutier and wider lips? (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Getting a lift with fillers

Answer: Getting a lift with fillers

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Lip Fillers

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.