What would be the best way to improve the appearance of my lips and make my top lip look fuller? (Photos)

Hi there, and thank you for sharing your question and photos so thoughtfully. It’s completely normal to feel self-conscious about certain facial features, and your attention to detail shows you have a good aesthetic eye.

From your description, it sounds like your upper lip may have a bit of “hidden” volume that becomes more visible when you smile or stretch the area — this is quite common and often related to how the upper lip attaches to the underlying muscles and tissue structure.

If your goal is to make that upper lip appear fuller and more visible even at rest, there are a few approaches to consider:

Lip filler (hyaluronic acid–based): A subtle filler treatment can help restore balance and shape, enhancing the upper lip’s visibility without overfilling. A skilled injector can focus on definition along the vermilion border and central volume to maintain a natural look while minimizing the risk of migration.

Lip flip (Botox): If you have enough natural tissue, a small amount of Botox can relax the muscle above the lip, gently rolling the upper lip outward to make it appear fuller. This is a great option if you want to avoid filler or test the look before committing.

Surgical or long-term options: A lip lift is a more permanent approach that shortens the space between the nose and upper lip, helping the upper lip show more at rest. However, it’s best to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon or facial aesthetic expert if considering this step.

It’s important that any enhancement complements your overall facial harmony — the goal is balance, not just fullness.