Lip Lift
Mr Olivier Amar - Leading Plastic Surgeon in Chelsea, London
The artistry of lip lift surgery lies in achieving subtle enhancement.
What is Lip Lift surgery?
A lip lift is a cosmetic surgical procedure that creates a fuller, more youthful appearance to the upper lip and mouth area. Unlike temporary dermal fillers, this procedure delivers natural looking results by surgically elevating the lip position to enhance the cupid’s bow definition, creating better facial proportions and a more balanced profile.
The surgical lip lift works by precisely shortening the distance between the upper lip and the nose base, an area anatomically known as the philtrum. By reducing this vertical space, the procedure elevates the lip position, revealing more of the pink vermillion – the coloured portion of your upper lip, for a naturally plumper appearance.
Why Consider Lip Lift Surgery
Age related lip changes
The ageing process significantly affects lip appearance. Over time, the philtrum naturally lengthens and loses volume, causing the upper lip to descend and appear thinner. Common age related changes include:
- Reduced visibility of upper teeth when lips are parted
- Loss of lip border definition
- Flattened or less pronounced cupid’s bow
- Overall thinning of the upper lip vermillion
- Downturned lip corners contributing to a tired appearance
Seeking a longer lasting alternative to fillers
If you have been regularly receiving lip filler injections but desire longer lasting results, a surgical lip lift may be the ideal solution. Many patients choose lip lift surgery when:
- Dermal fillers no longer provide the natural looking enhancement they desire
- Repeated filler treatments become costly and time consuming
- Dermal fillers add volume but do not address the fundamental issue of lip position
- They want a longer lasting correction rather than temporary enhancement requiring ongoing maintenance
Born with a long philtrum
Some people are naturally born with an elongated philtrum, which can create facial disproportion, making the lower face appear stretched or unbalanced. This may be accompanied by a naturally flat, thin upper lip that lacks definition and volume, regardless of age.
A lip lift is a comparatively small procedure but can make a big difference to your appearance.
Your consultation
Whether meeting in person or remotely, your consultation with Mr Olivier Amar provides a comprehensive discussion of your hoped for goals and treatment options. To get the most out of your consultation, we recommend reviewing information about your area of interest beforehand.
During your consultation, Mr Olivier Amar will listen to your desired outcomes and goals, conduct a thorough assessment, present appropriate treatment options and explain procedures in detail. This will include a step by step surgical process, required preparation, recovery timeline, scar placement and management, anaesthesia options, and potential risks and complications.
A consultation ensures you receive comprehensive information about all options, and understand both benefits and limitations of proposed procedures. You will have the opportunity to ask as many questions as you wish before you decide the next steps together, including the option to take no action.
Advanced Facial Rejuvenation
Mr Olivier Amar specialises in facial rejuvenation procedures. As every face is unique and we all age in different ways, he will conduct a comprehensive facial assessment, carefully developing a tailored approach to help patients achieve subtle, natural rejuvenation, without the obvious signs of surgery.
Risks associated with surgery
Every surgical procedure, while performed with the utmost care and expertise, carries inherent risks. Mr Olivier Amar ensures all patients are fully informed about potential complications before proceeding with any treatment.
General surgical risks include post-operative infection, bleeding and haematoma formation, scarring and wound healing complications, and anaesthesia related complications. During your consultation, Mr Olivier Amar will provide detailed information about procedure specific risks, explain preventive measures and safety protocols, answer all questions about potential complications and provide you with all the information needed to make an informed decision.
Preparing for Your Surgery
All surgical procedures are teamwork between the surgeon and the patient. Just as a runner trains for a marathon, preparation is key for optimal recovery.
From the time you book the procedure ensure you maintain regular, gentle exercise, follow a balanced, nutritious diet, ensure adequate sleep and rest, and manage stress levels effectively. Alcohol consumption should be reduced and smoking stopped or minimised. If a patient feels prepared for surgery, they will arrive for their procedure feeling positive which in turn will reduce any anxiety and encourage stress free recovery.
The day before surgery, our dedicated pre-assessment nursing team will reconfirm your admission time, review fasting requirements, address any last minute questions and provide final preparation instructions.
Type of anaesthesia
Lip lift surgery is typically performed under local anaesthetic. However, it may be performed under total intravenous anaesthesia (TIVA), a technique of anaesthesia which uses a combination of agents given exclusively via the intravenous route without the use of gas anaesthesia. This means you will sleep comfortably throughout the procedure and wake immediately afterwards with a significantly reduced likelihood of feeling groggy or nauseous. The anaesthesia will be explained to you by your Anaesthetist during the preoperative consultation.
Having surgery under total intravenous anaesthesia (TIVA) allows you to go home the same day to rest and recuperate. Alternatively, we are happy to arrange the procedure at a hospital with an overnight stay facility, organise a nurse to stay with you overnight, or assist with local accommodation arrangements. Mr Olivier Amar will discuss your anaesthesia options and aftercare support in detail during your consultation.
Recovery Guide
Lip lift is a straightforward and minimally invasive procedure. As a result, there is minimal downtime required. We recommend taking extra care around the lip area by avoiding sleeping on your face and avoiding opening your mouth too wide for 3 weeks. When brushing your teeth, use a toothbrush with a smaller head. Immediately post-surgery you can expect to experience mild pain and discomfort which can be managed by over the counter pain killer medication.
Most patients find that bruising and swelling subsides within 1 week after the procedure. Depending on the type of daily activities, you should be able to resume daily activities within 1 week and return to gentle exercise after approximately 2-3 weeks.
Aftercare Information
One week after surgery you will attend a nurse appointment, at this point your incision sites will be reviewed, stitches removed and initial healing will be assessed. A follow up consultation with Mr Olivier Amar will be scheduled for six weeks after your surgery to assess your overall recovery.
It is your responsibility to attend all scheduled appointments. Failing to attend appointments or follow post-operative instructions may impact your results and final outcome. Regular monitoring ensures optimal healing progression and early detection of complications. Mr Olivier Amar will discuss the post-operative schedule in detail during your consultation.
Scar Placement and Management
Lip lift scars are discreetly placed in the natural crease along the base of the nose and the curve of nostrils. Scar healing time varies, but most scars are red at first, change to purple, then fade to become paler over 6-12 months. As a leading London based cosmetic surgeon, Mr Olivier Amar specialises in advanced scar management and prevention techniques. Leading up to your surgery or as part of your post-surgical care, a scar management protocol may be initiated using steroid injections and silicone dressings. A treatment course of Aerolase Neo laser is recommended post-surgery.
The Aerolase Neo laser treatment offers significant benefits for scar improvement:
- Stimulates natural collagen production
- Reduces scar pigmentation
- Improves skin texture and appearance
- Softens scar tissue
- Promotes tissue remodelling
- Accelerates bruise healing
Maintaining your results
The initial result of lip lift surgery can be seen immediately after surgery, however it can take a few weeks for swelling and bruising to fully subside. The result of lip lift surgery can be best appreciated after 2-3 months.
Some patients opt to support their results with Aerolase Neo laser treatment for skin rejuvenation. The laser treatment stimulates natural collagen production, which is essential for improving skin firmness and elasticity, smoothing rough texture, reducing the appearance of fine lines and minimising enlarged pores. Typically, most patients see noticeable results after four treatments with enhanced clearance and quality of skin occurring after each subsequent treatment. It is also recommended that you commit to wearing sun protection daily and follow an at home skincare regimen.
What happens during Lip Lift surgery?
During a lip lift procedure, Mr Olivier Amar removes a carefully measured crescent of skin and tissue at the base of the nose using what is called a ‘bullhorn incision’. The remaining skin is then meticulously lifted and sutured into its new, elevated position. Precision is paramount, adjustments of just 2-4 millimetres can dramatically transform the entire facial appearance while maintaining natural proportions. The artistry of lip lift surgery lies in achieving subtle enhancement.
This procedure also enhances definition of the cupid’s bow, creating those desirable curved contours that characterise youthful, feminine lips. Female upper lips naturally sit closer to the nose base and appear fuller than male lips. Many women find the most aesthetically pleasing lip appearance reveals a slight glimpse of the front teeth when the mouth is gently relaxed, the sought after look popularised by models like Georgia May Jagger.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of lip lift surgery?
Lip lift surgery is a cosmetic surgical procedure that is becoming increasingly popular as people seek more permanent and effective ways to enhance the appearance of their lips. The benefits of lip lift surgery are numerous and can have a significant impact on a person’s overall appearance and self-confidence.
- Permanently fuller lips
- Natural looking results
- Improved proportions of the face
- Reduced appearances of wrinkles
- Minimal downtime
How long does lip lift surgery take?
Lip lift surgery takes between 45-60 minutes.
WHERE WILL THE INCISIONS BE POSITIONED?
Lip lift incisions are discreetly placed in the natural crease along the base of the nose and the curve of nostrils. Scar healing time varies, but most scars are red at first, change to purple, then fade to become paler over 6-12 months.
What is a bullhorn lip lift?
A bullhorn lip lift refers to the shape of the incision made at the base of the nose. The skin below is then raised and stitched into place, raising the lip to the new position. It is important not to overdo treatment as just a few millimetres can make a noticeable difference to the look of the entire face. It is essential for a natural look that this procedure is carried out by an experienced surgeon with a subtle, delicate and artistic approach.
What are common age related changes that affect lip appearance?
The ageing process significantly affects lip appearance. Over time, the philtrum naturally lengthens and loses volume, causing the upper lip to descend and appear thinner. Common age related changes include:
- Reduced visibility of upper teeth when lips are parted
- Loss of lip border definition
- Flattened or less pronounced cupid’s bow
- Overall thinning of the upper lip vermillion
- Downturned lip corners contributing to a tired appearance
Is lip lift surgery painful?
Lip lift is a straightforward and minimally invasive procedure. As a result, there is minimal downtime required. We recommend taking extra care around the lip area by avoiding sleeping on your face and avoiding opening your mouth too wide for 3 weeks. When brushing your teeth, use a toothbrush with a smaller head. Immediately post-surgery you can expect to experience mild pain and discomfort which can be managed by over the counter pain killer medication.
When can I return to exercise after surgery?
Depending on the type of daily activities, you should be able to resume daily activities within 1 week and return to gentle exercise after approximately 2-3 weeks.
When will I see the results of lip lift surgery?
The initial results of lip lift surgery can be seen immediately after surgery, however, it can take a few weeks for swelling and bruising to fully subside. The result of lip lift surgery can be best appreciated after 2-3 months.
WHAT IS POOR SCARRING?
A ‘good’ scar fades significantly after appearing and blends in with the surrounding skin tone. A ‘poor’ scar, such as a keloid or hypertrophic scar, will stay visible and cause skin irritation for a number of months after formation. Time is the best healer as eventually normal scars and hypertrophic scars will mature and become pale.
Meet Olivier Amar – Leading Plastic Surgeon in Chelsea, London
Mr Olivier Amar is a renowned London based consultant plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgeon specialising in face, breast and body surgery, advanced non-surgical facial rejuvenation, hair loss treatments and regenerative medicine. With over 15 years of experience, Mr Olivier Amar has earned a reputation among both patients and peers alike for transforming cosmetic surgery into an art form.
“Cosmetic surgery is a demanding profession and patient expectations are high. But I am a doctor first and a surgeon second. My only concern is the patient in front of me, fulfilling their needs and managing their expectations. My work is intense; it means everything to me and is my lifelong passion.”
Mr Amar’s commitment to precision and refinement extends through every aspect of patient care, from initial consultation to post-operative support. All treatments take place at his private practice in Chelsea, London. Working alongside Mr Amar is a highly skilled team of dedicated nurses, experienced anaesthetists from leading NHS and private hospitals, and specialised management staff. This collaborative approach ensures comprehensive, world-class care for all patients.
