What Is a Lip Lift?
A lip lift is a precise surgical procedure that repositions and reshapes the upper lip and/or mouth corners, improving both form and expression.
At DR Surgery, we focus on two key techniques:
Central Lip Lift (Subnasal / Cupid’s Bow Lift)
- Shortens the distance between the nose and upper lip
- Enhances the natural curve of the Cupid’s bow
- Increases visible vermilion (pink lip) without overfilling
- Creates a more defined, youthful lip contour
Corner Lip Lift (Lateral Lift)
- Elevates downturned corners of the mouth
- Softens a tired or stern resting expression
- Improves symmetry and facial balance
These techniques can be performed individually or combined, depending on your anatomy and aesthetic goals.
How Lip Lift Surgery Works
Lip lift surgery is performed as a minor day-case procedure under local anaesthetic, with or without light sedation.
Central Lip Lift
- Incision placed discreetly beneath the nose, within the natural crease
- A small segment of skin is removed
- The lip is gently elevated to refine curvature and projection
Corner Lip Lift
- Small incisions placed at the natural corners of the mouth
- Subtle repositioning to elevate and balance the smile
Procedure details:
- Duration: 45–90 minutes
- No overnight stay required
- Fine suturing techniques used to optimise healing and scar quality
You return home the same day with a structured aftercare plan.
Why Choose a Surgical Lip Lift?
Non-surgical treatments such as fillers can increase volume, but they do not correct lip length, shape, or position.
A surgical lip lift provides a more precise, proportion-based correction.
Benefits include:
- Improved lip-to-nose proportion
- Enhanced definition without overfilling
- Increased tooth show and lip visibility
- Lifted, more positive resting expression
- Long-lasting structural results
- Performed under local anaesthetic
The outcome is subtle but powerful — a more refined, balanced lower face.
Who Is Suitable for a Lip Lift?
You may benefit from a lip lift if you have:
- A long or elongated upper lip
- Reduced lip definition or flattening
- Downturned mouth corners
- Desire for natural enhancement without fillers
- Good general health and realistic expectations
A detailed consultation will determine whether a central lift, corner lift, or combined approach is most appropriate.
Recovery from a lip lift is generally straightforward:
- Mild swelling or bruising: Common for 7–10 days
- Temporary tightness or numbness: Around the upper lip or corners of the mouth
- Sutures removal: Usually 5–7 days for non-dissolvable sutures
- Cold compresses: As advised to reduce swelling
- Light activity: After 1 week
- Strenuous exercise: After 2–3 weeks
- Make-up: Usually after 10–14 days (avoid on incision sites until healed)
- Full recovery: 4–6 weeks, though results are noticeable sooner
Scars are discreetly hidden and gradually fade, blending naturally with the lip and philtrum contours.