Lip lift candidacy with existing fillers – is it worth the risk? (Photos)

Question

Hello, I’m considering a surgical lip lift. I’ve had lip fillers (still present) and I’m a little concerned about overprojection and an unnatural upper lip. Based on my anatomy, do you think I’m a good candidate for a lip lift at all — or does my facial structure carry a higher risk of an overdone result? Many thanks!

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

You must dissolve the lip fillers before having a lip lift done. I recommend 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.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Hello,

Thank you for sharing your photos and your thoughtful questions. I completely understand your concerns—wanting a natural, balanced outcome is always the priority, especially when considering a surgical lip lift with existing filler in place.

Having filler already in your lips can influence the final result, particularly regarding projection and fullness. In some cases, the existing filler can make the upper lip appear more prominent after a lift, which is why careful planning is essential. Dissolving some or all of the filler beforehand is often considered to better assess your natural anatomy and minimize the risk of an overdone appearance.

Whether a lip lift is appropriate depends on your facial structure, lip thickness, and the proportion of upper lip to nose. From the photos, you may be a reasonable candidate, but subtle adjustments and a conservative surgical approach are key to achieving a natural result while minimizing risk.

It’s very normal to be cautious—many patients feel the same way. The goal is to enhance your upper lip in a way that looks natural and harmonious with your face.

Take care,
Dr. Anna Chacon

Lip lift candidacy with existing fillers – is it worth the risk? (Photos)

Answers (2)

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