When Will the Swelling Go Down from Having a Bullhorn Lip Lift?

Question

I look like a horse, it has only been 2 days, but I iced my lip for most of the 2 days. I am very self conscious of the way my lip looks...is this just swelling? How long will it take for me to look normal again?

James M. Pearson, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. The Lip Lift procedure is performed to accentuate the size and/or shape of the upper lip by removing skin from the region just underneath the nose. As the distance is decreased between the nose and the lip, the red lip is 'lifted'. In appropriate individuals, shortening this distance may impart or restore a more favorable balance to lips and face.
  
Your experience of significant swelling after only 2 days is entirely normal.
  
In most cases, there is significant improvement in the swelling by 72 hours following the procedure. Much, but not all, of the remaining swelling is resolved by 1 week. Most women feel comfortable being seen in public after 1 week, and are even more comfortable by 2 weeks.

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

Good day! Thank you for providing photo with your query. Generally, swelling after a lift lip should subside within 1-2 weeks and tightness should diminish within a few months. Do not hesitate to ask your doctor about your concern or any additional aftercare instructions. Best of luck! #RealSelf100

Gary Linkov, MD · Answer

Swelling after an upper lip lift is expected. 2 days is early and you will gradually appreciate a reduction in the swelling. Usually patients are seen about 1 week postop at which time your surgeon will evaluate the progress and make sure you are on the right track.

Karan Chopra, MD · Answer

Hi @TobyRyan
Thanks for the question and sharing the picture! Swelling peaks at DAY 3 and 90% should subside by 15 days. The remaining swelling can persist for as long as 3 months but this is rare.
Regarding the scars in your question above - the scar typically heals extremely well and can be further effaced with laser if it's a concern.To optimize your chances of an excellent scar we recommend no smoking 4 weeks prior to the surgery and limit sun exposure after the surgery.
See an expert.Dr. Karan Chopra
★★★★★
Minneapolis Plastic Surgeon
Face ⨀ Breast ⨀ Body Expert
Johns Hopkins Trained
Cosmetic Fellowship Trained

Greg Bran, MD, PhD · Answer

Hi there and thank you for your question. According to the photo the swelling looks just as you would expect it to be 2 days after surgery. Any swelling in one's face looks scary, but every surgery includes a certain degree of swelling in the healing phase. Usually the swelling peaks about 48hours after you had your operation and starts settling down afterwards. It is important to avoid any increase of blood pressure, i.e. avoid any strenuous exercise, hot showers, coffee or energy drinks, and smoking during the first week after your lip lift. any of these will raise your blood pressure, which not only aggravates the extend and duration of swelling, but it can also increase your risk for bleeding. 
Here are some simple tips how to reduce the swelling / keep it at a minimum: 
-keep it cool- cooling of the upper lip several times / day will help to keep the swelling at a minimum 
-keep it moving- even though you should not exercise, two 30min walks (nothing to carry) will help the lymphatic system to get activated. You can also ask for instructions how to perform MLD (Manual Lymphatic Drainage) to massage some of the swelling out of your face. 
-keep your head high- whenever you lay day, make sure your head rests in an elevated position.

Hope this helps. Good luck!
Kind regards, 
GB

Samir Shureih, MD · Answer

You should ask your surgeon. It looks you had multiple surgeries at the same time. swelling will be longer than the avarage. wait 6-12 weeks.

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