Many people want full lips to enhance their appearance. Adding volume and shaping the lips has become increasingly popular over the last few years. While many people choose injectable treatment, it is not for everyone. It requires repeated appointments as the results do not last. Over time, it can be much more expensive and time-consuming. A long-term solution for fuller, more shapely lips is a lip lift. You may wonder, what is a lip lift? Below you will find helpful information about the procedure and why it is right for you.
What is a Lip Lift?
A lip lift is a surgical procedure that enhances the shape and position of the upper lip. Rather than just adding volume, a lip lift raises the upper lip. The surgery shortens the space between the nose and upper lip. This improves lip balance and creates a naturally fuller look. It also reveals more of your upper teeth when smiling. This has been proven to be a desirable aesthetic feature.
Anatomy of the Upper Lip
Aging and genetics can impact the appearance of the upper lip. The distance between the base of the nose and the upper lip can become longer. Some people are born with this. But it is also a function of the natural aging process. When the area lengthens, the upper lip often rolls inward. This makes it appear much thinner. A lip lift effectively shortens the space and allows more of the pink portion of the upper lip to show. Lifting the lip upward enhances its shape. It also restores balance between the upper and lower lips. This naturally creates a more youthful and refreshed look.
Types of Lip Lifts
There are several lip lift techniques. Each is designed to address your aesthetic goals and unique facial anatomy. The most common lip lift is the subnasal lip lift. This technique involves forming a small strip of skin just beneath the base of the nose. The incision is made in the natural curves of the nostrils. This ensures that the scar is well hidden and does not reveal that any cosmetic work has been done. Other techniques can be used. Choosing the right one depends on evaluating your facial proportions and aesthetic goals.
Lip Lift Procedure
Patients interested in a lip lift should familiarize themselves with the procedure. This ensures that you are prepared for your consultation. It can also help you feel more comfortable going into the procedure.
Consultation Process
Plastic surgery procedures always begin with a consultation. A thorough evaluation of your lip shape, facial proportions, and skin quality is key. An assessment of your current health and medical history is also conducted. It is important to be in good overall health. If you have any chronic medical conditions, they need to be well-managed before surgery. You should also avoid smoking. If you do smoke, share this information with your surgeon right away. You will need to quit smoking for a period before and after surgery.
Surgical Preparation
Once it has been determined that you are a good candidate for the procedure, your surgeon will provide you with preoperative instructions. It is important to follow these exactly to ensure you are prepared on the day of surgery. They may provide you with instructions specific to you. They will also provide you with standard instructions.
Common standard instructions include avoiding certain medications up to two weeks in advance. This includes aspirin and blood-thinning medications. Talk with your primary care provider before stopping any prescribed medications. Avoid smoking for at least two weeks before surgery. It can impact anesthesia and increase the risk of complications. Avoid drinking alcohol for at least two days before surgery. It can also impact anesthesia and create unnecessary surgical risks. On the day of surgery, avoid eating or drinking anything well in advance.
Surgical Procedure
The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis. It is often performed under local anesthesia with mild sedation. The local anesthesia helps you feel comfortable throughout the procedure. You will not feel any pain or discomfort. Mild sedation is often used to ensure you are calm and relaxed. The procedure itself takes roughly 45 minutes. This depends on the complexity of the procedure, as each patient is uniquely different.
The surgeon will make a mark on the skin to determine the incision site. Once you are under local anesthesia and sedated, they will begin the procedure. A small, hidden incision is made at the base of the nose. A small strip of skin is removed. Once removed, the lip is lifted, and the incision is closed. It is a very fast and seamless procedure. The surgeon will provide you with instructions on caring for yourself after surgery.
Recovering from a Lip Lift
After the procedure, you are free to go home the same day. Due to the sedation, it is important to have someone bring you home. A trusted friend or family member should also stay with you as you recover. You will experience mild bruising and swelling for the first week. This can be managed with rest, cold compresses, and keeping your head elevated. You may also experience some pain. This can be managed with medication. It is best to stick to soft foods during this period to manage the unwanted symptoms.
By the end of the first week, you will need to attend a follow-up appointment. Your stitches will be removed. The surgeon will also assess your recovery process. Any necessary adjustments to your recovery plan will be made. By the second week, you should be back to your daily routine. The final results of surgery are often clear within a few months.
Top Lip Lift Plastic Surgeon in Beverly Hills
The appearance of your lips has a major impact on the appearance of your entire face. If you want to refresh the look of your lips, contact Dr. Brent’s team today to schedule your consultation!
