Face and Head
Lip Lift
Also known as Bullhorn Lip Lift · Subnasal Lip Lift · Corner Lip Lift
A lip lift is a surgical procedure that shortens the distance between the base of the nose and the upper lip (the philtrum) to create a fuller, more defined, and more youthful upper lip. Unlike lip fillers, which add volume through injection, a lip lift permanently reshapes the lip by removing a small amount of skin and repositioning the lip upward.
45 Min – 1.5 Hours
Duration
Local Sedation
Anaesthesia
Day Procedure
Hospital Stay
Am I a Good Candidate?
A lip lift may be suitable for those who:
- Are in good overall physical health and at a stable weight
- Are a non-smoker, or willing to cease smoking at least 4–6 weeks prior to surgery
- Have a long philtrum that creates an aged or flat appearance
- Desire more visible pink lip tissue without volume enhancement
- Have downturned mouth corners that affect their resting facial expression
- Are looking for a permanent rather than temporary solution for lip enhancement
What to Expect — The Procedure
Precise measurements are taken prior to incision to ensure symmetry and a natural-looking result. The amount of skin removed is carefully calculated — too little yields a subtle result, while too much can distort the natural lip proportions. An experienced surgeon will tailor the approach to the patient’s facial anatomy.
Pre-operative Care
- Cease smoking at least 4–6 weeks prior to surgery
- Avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements (aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, vitamin E) for 2 weeks before surgery
- Inform your surgeon of all current medications, allergies, and medical conditions
- Avoid lip fillers for at least 4–6 weeks prior to surgery, as existing filler may affect surgical planning
- Arrange for someone to drive you home following the procedure
- Prepare soft foods for the initial recovery period, as mouth movement will be limited in the first few days
The following are general guidelines only. Your assigned surgeon will provide personalised pre and post-operative instructions during your consultation.
Post-operative Care
- Keep the head elevated at all times during the initial recovery period, including while sleeping
- Avoid submerging incisions in water until your surgeon confirms the wounds are fully healed
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments for wound checks and progress assessment
- Avoid excessive mouth movement, wide smiling, or stretching of the lips during the initial healing period
- Consume soft foods and avoid foods that require wide mouth opening for the first 1–2 weeks
- Avoid applying lipstick or lip products near the incision site until cleared by your surgeon
When to Call Your Surgeon
- High fever (above 38.5°C / 101.3°F)
- Sudden or rapidly increasing pain around the lip or nose not relieved by prescribed medication
- Excessive bleeding or unusual discharge from the incision site
- Wound edges opening or separating
- Signs of allergic reaction — skin rash, severe itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a lip lift better than lip filler?
Will the scar be visible?
Is the result permanent?
Ready to Begin Your Transformation?
Send us an enquiry and we’ll match you with the right surgeon for your goals.