Will a lip lift make my upturned nose higher and wider? (Photos)

Question

I am a 61 yr old female. My philtrum measures 20 mm. I would like a lip lift but worried that my VERY upturned nose will become more upturned.

Jacob Tower, MD · Answer

Hello, hope you are well. I would not be concerned that your nose will rotate or become more "upturned" or wider. The concern for you is that the subnasal scar will have relatively high visibility while it is healing. The crease is well-defined so ultimately it should be concealed nicely, but it's something to consider.

Best,
Dr. Tower

Best,
Dr. Tower

Caitlin Iorio, MD · Answer

You are an excellent candidate for a lip lift. This procedure, if performed correctly, should not alter the shape of your nose whatsoever.

Lexie Wang, MD · Answer

a proper lip lift should not have any impact on how your nose appears because it shouldn't invade into the nasal architecture in  any way. I think you'd be a great candidate!

Mustafa Aydinol, MD · Answer

I have done many of these surgeries and definitely if you get a Lip lift procedure you will like the results

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

It is possible that a lip lift could do that depending on the technique used. However, with minimal central resection, more resection laterally and the long term self dissolving suture, it is possible that it will not happen. You should consider a rhinoplasty as well. Both procedures can be done at the same time or undergo the lip lift and if you are not satisfied then undergo the rhinoplasty. 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. The procedure takes 1 hour to perform under local anesthesia and costs $4,000.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Jeffrey H. Spiegel, MD · Answer

Your nose will not necessarily look more upturned.  It depends upon how the surgeon does it. I've been teaching others how to do lip lifts for 20 years. One of the keys is how we suspend the tissues so to not affect the nose.

Steve Laverson, MD, FACS · Answer

The answer to your question depends on how the upper lip lift is done, but at the same time as your upper lip lift, many aesthetic plastic surgeons could perform a minor procedure inside the nose so it appears even LESS upturned after your upper lip lift.  For you, one definite upper lip lift issue that must be addressed is upper lip shape.  Horizontal length of your lips is longer than width of your nasal base where the lift is concentrated.  How will this change the shape of your upper lip?  This may be simulated in advance to decide whether or not to extend the upper lip lift to include the lateral ends of your upper lip or just centrally.

John L. Burns Jr., MD · Answer

you appear to be a good candidate for a lip lift.  If anything this would give downward force on your nasal tip.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

As a dermatologist, my focus is primarily on skin health rather than surgical procedures. However, I can offer some general insights into the effects of a lip lift. This procedure is designed to enhance the appearance of the upper lip by shortening the philtrum, which can lead to a more youthful and balanced facial appearance.

Regarding your concern about the impact on your very upturned nose, a lip lift typically should not alter the structure or appearance of your nose significantly. The procedure focuses on the area just below the nose and is unlikely to change the nose's position or dimensions. However, facial anatomy can vary greatly, and it is essential to discuss your specific concerns with a qualified plastic surgeon who can provide a thorough evaluation and discuss the potential outcomes.

For the best advice tailored to your situation, I recommend consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon who has experience with lip lifts. They can assess your facial features and address any concerns, ensuring you achieve the results you desire without impacting the appearance of your nose.