What is a Lip Lift?

Many people think thinner lips result only from lost volume as we age, but this is not always the case. With time, our facial skin stretches because of gravity. This is not just true of the cheeks and jawline, but also of the skin above the upper lip. Elongated skin between the mouth and nose can curl the upper lip inward, making it appear thinner than it truly is. Dr. Robert Langdon uses the upper lip lift to correct this problem, giving patients the appearance of a fuller, plumper upper lip.

*Individual Results May Vary

How Does a Lip Lift Work?

While the upper lip lift concept is simple, its execution takes precision and a critically aesthetic eye. The crease immediately beneath the nose is the ideal location for an incision that will heal with minimal visibility. 

Dr. Langdon creates this “bullhorn-shaped” incision carefully to conform to the shape of the lowermost  nose. Then an identical incision is made several millimeters below the first, at a precise measurement Dr. Langdon has determined before the procedure. The skin between the two incisions is removed, and the remaining skin is then sutured into place beneath the nose. The whole procedure takes between 1-2 hours, and once healed, the fullness of your upper lip emerges and lasts for years to come. The upper lip is “turned out” to restore youthful fullness.

Am I a Good Candidate for a Lip Lift?

If you are bothered by a thin upper lip and have substantial vertical distance between your upper lip and the bottom of your nose, you may be an ideal candidate for an upper lip lift. Dr. Langdon can explain in detail what your specific lip lift will involve after a thorough examination during your comprehensive consultation. He will also be happy to answer any other questions you may have.

What is a Lip Lift Treatment Like?

Your upper lip lift is performed on an outpatient basis with local anesthesia to ensure you remain comfortable through the procedure. Dr. Langdon will make the necessary incisions to carefully bring out the natural volume of your upper lip, thus improving your facial balance and smile. 

Once he is satisfied with the placement of the incision, he will suture the incision closed with a focus on minimizing the resulting scar to ensure that it will be well-camouflaged. You will be able to return home to rest the same day.

What Downtime and Results Can I Expect?

Patients who have an upper lip lift at The Langdon Center experience mild discomfort in the 1-2 days right after the procedure. For most patients, narcotic pain management is unnecessary. Dr. Langdon will prescribe an antibiotic cream to facilitate healing. On average, patients return to work 3-4 days after the procedure. Dr. Langdon will see you between 7-10 days from the procedure to assess how well you are healing and to remove the sutures.

Minor swelling and bruising are expected and will be mostly subsided by 2 weeks post-op. Your upper lip will be fuller, and your facial features will be more balanced. The most significant benefit is that the results should last a lifetime, which cannot be said of temporary treatments like dermal fillers. Dr. Langdon is double board-certified and one of the only surgeons in CT who performs this innovative procedure. If you are interested in a fuller upper lip, a more youthful appearance, and balanced facial features, Dr. Langdon can help with an upper lip lift.

Take the Next Step

If you have further questions about a lip lift we encourage you to schedule a consultation at The Langdon Center in Guilford, CT. Call us at 203-453-8625 or fill out our convenient online contact form.