Am I a candidate for a lip lift? (Photos)

Question

I have been feeling self conscious about the appearance of my upper lip I wanted to ask Doctor if I would be a good candidate for it?

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Thank you for your question and for sharing the photos. Based on the images and your concern about the appearance of your upper lip, here are some key points to consider when evaluating candidacy for a lip lift:

Lip Lift Candidacy Criteria:
Upper Lip Length:
A lip lift is often considered when the philtrum (the space between the base of the nose and the top of the lip) appears elongated or when the upper lip covers too much of the upper teeth at rest or while smiling. In your photos, there may be a slightly elongated upper lip that could potentially benefit from a subtle lift to create more balance and expose more of the upper vermilion.

Lip Shape & Projection:
A lip lift can enhance lip eversion (the outward turning of the pink lip) and improve definition, especially when fillers alone have not achieved a natural or satisfactory result. From your photos, it appears that there may be volume fullness, but the upper lip still lacks the proportion or exposure you're seeking.

Facial Harmony:
You appear to have good symmetry, and a carefully planned lip lift could help shorten the upper lip, improve tooth show, and enhance balance between the upper and lower lips. This is especially beneficial if you're aiming for a more defined cupid's bow or a more youthful lip contour.

Important Considerations:
A lip lift is a surgical procedure, so healing time, scarring (usually well-hidden under the nose), and long-term results should be considered.

It is not a volume-adding procedure, so if lip fullness is also desired, filler can still be used after healing.

Based on your photos and concern about upper lip aesthetics, you may be a reasonable candidate for a lip lift. A formal in-person evaluation with measurements and dynamic assessment (lip movement when smiling or speaking) is ideal for full confirmation.

Daniel A. Barker, MD · Answer

It looks like you can get a great, permanent result with a lip lift. A lip lift can raise your upper lift higher and give you a more natural pout! It can be used in conjunction with fat transfer to the lips as well for an amazing result!

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

You would benefit from an eccentric lip lift.  This 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 $4,000.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Am I a candidate for a lip lift? (Photos)

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Am I a candidate for a lip lift? (Photos)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Lip Lift

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