Lip Lift

What is Lip Lift?

A lip lift is a minor surgical procedure that shortens the distance between the upper lip and the base of the nose, gently rolling the lip upward to create a more defined, fuller, volumized and more youthful lips. This subtle enhancement improves lip shape, balance, and facial proportions — giving the lips a naturally fuller look without the need for ongoing filler treatments.

Key points

Duration of the surgery

45 min - 1.5 hours

Anaesthesia

General or Local

Recovery period

7 days

Clinic stay

Day case

Natural, long-lasting lip enhancement

A lip lift is a highly effective cosmetic procedure designed to shorten the distance between the base of the nose and the upper lip, enhancing lip definition and creating a naturally fuller, more youthful appearance. Unlike temporary fillers, a lip lift offers a permanent improvement in lip shape, smile aesthetics, and upper lip visibility.

This procedure is ideal for patients who want a subtle yet noticeable rejuvenation without excessive volume or the risk of overfilled “duck lips.”
Each lip lift is tailored to your unique anatomy and aesthetic goals to achieve refined, balanced, and natural-looking results.

What does a Lip Lift do?

A lip lift can improve your facial aesthetics by:

• Increasing the visible height of the upper lip.

• Enhancing the definition of the Cupid’s bow.

• Improving upper tooth show at rest and when smiling.

• Reversing downward-turned lip corners.

• Reducing lines around the mouth caused by ageing.

• Creating the appearance of added lip volume without fillers.

Types of Lip Lifts

Different lip lift techniques are selected based on your anatomy and desired result:

1. Bullhorn (Subnasal) Lip Lift

The most common technique. A curved incision is placed under the nose resembling a “bullhorn” shape. This lifts the central and lateral upper lip evenly.

2. Central Lip Lift

Targets mainly the Cupid’s bow area. Ideal for enhancing central lip definition.

3. Corner Lip Lift

Lifts drooping or downturned mouth corners to create a more pleasant, subtle smile. Often combined with other lip lift types.

How Lip Lift Surgery Is Performed

Anaesthesia

A lip lift is typically performed under general or local anaesthetic, keeping you comfortable and pain-free. Sedation or general anaesthesia may be used if combined with other procedures.

Advanced Technique

I use refined “deep plane” techniques to reduce skin tension, improve long-term results, and minimise the risk of noticeable scarring or nostril distortion.

Recovery After Lip Lift

You can return home the same day.
Typical aftercare includes:

• Keep talking and mouth movements minimal in the first days.

• Avoid smoking and alcohol during healing.

• Follow soft-food diet initially.

• Apply prescribed ointments and follow hygiene instructions.

Stitches are removed at day 5–7, or they may dissolve depending on the technique used.

Healing Timeline

• Swelling & discomfort: first few days.

• Bruising resolves: 1–2 weeks.

• Tightness: several weeks.

• Scar maturation: up to 6–12 months.

• Final results: around 3–4 months.

Benefits of a Lip Lift

A lip lift offers:

• Permanent improvement in upper lip appearance.

• Enhanced upper tooth show.

• Natural-looking fullness without fillers.

• A more attractive balanced smile.

• Improved definition of the Cupid’s bow.

• Long-term facial rejuvenation.

• Increased confidence in your appearance.

Risks & Complications

While complications are uncommon, all surgery carries risk.
Possible risks include:

• Asymmetry.

• Poor scarring.

• Delayed healing.

• Nerve irritation.

• Under- or over-correction.

• Temporary widening of the nostrils.

• Changes in smile dynamics (rare).

• Infection.

Patients with a history of hypertrophic or keloid scarring may not be ideal candidates.

Lip Lift Scarring

The incision is placed within the natural crease beneath the nose, making the scar discreet and highly concealed.
With proper care, the scar fades significantly over several months.

Scar care may include:

• Silicone gel or silicone strips

• Gentle massage.

• Sun protection.

• Following all post-operative instructions.

Most patients find the scar becomes barely noticeable.

When Should I Contact My Surgeon?

You should get in touch if you experience:

• Increased or persistent swelling.

• Signs of infection (reddness, swelling, burning/hot sensation of tissues).

• Excessive bleeding.

• Fever.

• Wound opening.

• Unusual asymmetry.

Lip Lift FAQs by Plastic Surgeon Žygimantas Mačys

01 | Will the scarring be obvious?

Scarring after a lip lift is minimal and well-hidden in the natural crease beneath the nose. Because the incision sits at the base of the nose, it blends in well as it heals. Over time, scars fade and become far less noticeable. Proper aftercare further improves healing.

02 | What are the risks associated with a Lip Lift?

Lip lift surgery carries risks such as: asymmetry, infection, bleeding, poor wound healing, and potential dissatisfaction with the final results. These risks are important to understand before surgery. Choosing the right surgeon helps minimise complications. All other risks will be discussed during your consultation.

03 | Is a Lip Lift permanent?

A lip lift is considered a long-lasting procedure, with results that usually last years. However, the distance between the nose and upper lip may gradually increase again as part of normal ageing. Most patients enjoy stable improvement over time. Follow-up treatments are rarely required.

04 | Is Lip Lift surgery painful?

Lip lift surgery is not painful during the procedure because a local anaesthetic is used. After surgery, you may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort during the first few weeks. These symptoms gradually improve as you heal. Most patients manage well with simple pain relief.

05 | Will my smile change after a Lip Lift?

A lip lift can enhance your smile by exposing more of the upper teeth, giving a more youthful, balanced appearance. It should not affect lip muscle function, so the natural smile is preserved. Most patients notice a subtle but attractive improvement. The goal is always a natural enhancement.

06 | Are lip lifts a suitable substitute for lip fillers?

Yes, a lip lift can be an excellent alternative for patients who want long-lasting results without frequent filler appointments. It is especially suitable for those with a long upper lip or those wanting fuller lips without additional volume from fillers. Unlike fillers, a lip lift provides a permanent structural change. Many patients prefer it for a more natural look.

08 | Why is a Lip Lift better than Lip Fillers?

A lip lift is a surgical procedure that improves the shape and fullness of the lips through a small incision, and it is performed under local anaesthesia with minimal discomfort. Unlike lip fillers, which require repeated treatments, a lip lift offers a long-lasting, permanent result. It avoids risks like duck lips or trout pout from over-filling. It is also ideal for older patients whose upper lip has lengthened with age.

07 | Who is an ideal candidate for a Lip Lift?

Ideal candidates are those who feel their top lip is too long, want their upper teeth to show more when they smile, or prefer fuller-looking lips without fillers. Candidates should be in good health with realistic expectations. Both younger and older patients can benefit. Suitability is confirmed during consultation.

09 | How much does Lip Lift cost?

The cost of a lip lift in Manchester typically starts from 2300-2900 GBP. Pricing varies depending on the surgeon, type of anaesthesia, surgical complexity, and clinic location. A lip lift is considered a cosmetic procedure, so insurance does not cover it. Exact quotes are given during consultation.

Considering Lip Lift in Manchester, UK?

Book your free consultation with me at Transform Clinic.