Did you know you can enhance your smile and rejuvenate your facial appearance with a lip lift at The Cohen Clinic for Plastic Surgery in McLean, Virginia? A lip lift can reverse the effects of aging on the upper lip, create a more lifted and rejuvenated appearance, and provide a permanent look of greater fullness. Our expert team, led by Dr. Cohen, is dedicated to providing top-tier cosmetic procedures to help you achieve your aesthetic goals. A lip lift can create a more youthful and attractive appearance, enhancing the natural beauty of your smile.
A lip lift is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to shorten the space between the nose and the upper lip, known as the philtrum. This results in a more prominent and youthful upper lip, with enhanced definition and an improved smile. The procedure is particularly effective for those who feel their upper lip is too thin or that it hides their teeth when they smile. Lifting the upper lip can also create a fuller, more attractive lip contour, improving overall facial harmony. It is essential to understand the different types of lip lifts and their techniques to make an informed discussion about the right option for you.
There are several types of lip lift procedures available. The central lip lift, similar to a subnasal bullhorn lift, shortens the space between the nose and the lips through an incision at the lower nose. The corner lip lift is an elective cosmetic procedure that gives the face a smiley appearance by making small incisions at the corners of the mouth to remove a small amount of skin. The direct lip lift involves removing a strip of skin above the upper lip and pulling the skin upwards to create a more defined lip border and pronounced vermillion, often resulting in a scar on the upper lip area. The gullwing lip lift, a type of direct lip lift, also creates a more defined lip border by removing a thin strip of skin above the upper lip and pulling the skin upwards to enhance the vermillion, while often resulting in a scar in the upper lip area. On the other hand, the Italian lip lift involves two separate incisions under each nostril to lift the central part of the upper lip.
Ideal candidates for a lip lift are individuals dissatisfied with their upper lip’s appearance. Common concerns a lip lift can address include a long philtrum (the distance between the nose and the upper lip), thin or poorly defined upper lips, a desire for a more prominent and youthful lip contour, and a lack of upper tooth show when smiling. The impact of aging on the upper lip can lead to it falling downward and covering the upper teeth, but a lip lift can reverse these changes, providing a more lifted and rejuvenated appearance to the midface. Candidates should be in good overall health, non-smokers, and have realistic expectations about the procedure’s outcomes. A thorough consultation with plastic surgeon Dr. Cohen will determine if a lip lift is the right choice for you, considering your aesthetic goals and facial structure to determine the correct type of lip lift for you.
The lip lift surgery is typically performed with a numbing medicine injected into the area, similar to a dental procedure. The surgery involves making a small, discreet incision at the base of the nose, often called a “bullhorn” incision due to its shape. Excess skin is removed, and the upper lip is lifted to its new, elevated position. The incisions are meticulously closed to minimize scarring and ensure a natural-looking result. The procedure usually takes one to two hours to complete, depending on the case. It is an outpatient procedure, meaning patients can return home the same day. Following the procedure, the area is covered with antibiotic ointment, and sutures are removed several days later.
Following a lip lift procedure, patients can expect some swelling and bruising around the mouth and nose area, which typically subsides fully within two to three weeks. Small incisions are made in natural creases to make scarring virtually undetectable once fully healed. Most patients can return to normal activities within a week, though strenuous exercise should be avoided for at least two weeks to allow for proper healing. The results of a lip lift are long-lasting and can be seen immediately after the procedure, with final results becoming more apparent as the swelling reduces. It may take several months for the upper lip to soften and feel more natural. The outcome is a more youthful and defined upper lip that enhances your smile and overall facial appearance. Scarring is minimal and well-concealed at the base of the nose, becoming less noticeable over time. It is essential to follow the surgeon’s instructions to avoid noticeable scarring and for proper lip lift scar care to aid in fading scars over time.
At The Cohen Clinic patients receive more than just rejuvenating surgical and cosmetic treatments. Dr. Justin Cohen takes the time to truly understand his patients and their unique goals. He gives honest recommendations and believes every result should be natural and personalized.
Nationally Certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery
MEET DR. COHENIf you are considering a lip lift, schedule a consultation with Dr. Cohen at The Cohen Clinic for Plastic Surgery in McLean, Virginia. Our team is committed to providing personalized care and ensuring you feel confident and informed throughout your cosmetic journey. Contact The Cohen Clinic for Plastic Surgery today to book your consultation.
