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

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
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Minneapolis Plastic Surgeon
Face ⨀ Breast ⨀ Body Expert
Johns Hopkins Trained
Cosmetic Fellowship Trained

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