What is Lip lift?
Lip lift is a procedure that removes a specific amount of tissue just below the nose to lift and rejuvenate the appearance of the upper lip. This procedure is commonly used to reduce the vertical height of the upper lip, increase the volume of the red lip, and improve definition and contour. A lip lift can also evert the edge of the upper lip giving an aesthetically pleasing contour. The incision is placed just below the nostrils and shaped like a bullhorn. After a pre-determined amount of tissue is removed, the wound is closed and the scar heals very well within the natural creases of the skin.
Why Choose Lip lift?
The natural aging process affects the upper lip by losing red lip volume, red lip show [how much you see], and increasing the distance between the bottom of the nose to the red upper lip. Additionally, the balance between the upper and lower lip changes resulting in noticeable signs of aging. A lip lift addresses all of these changes simultaneously.
Many patients have experience with lip fillers and like their results. However lip filler only replaces the volume loss that occurs with aging. It does not address the lengthening of the upper lip. Additionally, lip fillers are temporary and require repeated injections, which can be costly. A lip lift is a permanent surgical procedure to re-volumize and rejuvenate the upper lip in ways temporary lip fillers cannot achieve.
Lip lift Faqs
Lip lift Surgery is for patients who are in good health and above the age of 18. This procedure is done both in young and older patients addressing specific concerns that each patient may have. The younger patient typically does not have a long upper lip but desires a more volumized and everted appearance to the upper lip. The procedure can be done in the office under local anesthesia or in the operating room under general anesthesia.
A Lip lift procedure is not painful and typically patients do not require narcotic pain medicine. The incision is closed with multiple stitches that are removed in the office approximately 5-7 days after your procedure. It should be expected that the lips will swell over the first 2 weeks and then begin to improve after that. Swelling in the upper lip can cause some stiffness and cause some difficulty with movement in the immediate post-operative period.
The two most important factors in a Lip lift are 1. The amount of tissue removed by the surgeon and 2. Ensuring a tension free closure to produce the best looking scar. An incision that is closed with good technique and care can result in an almost invisible scar. Dr. Lozada places emphasis on multiple deep layer sutures to ensure nothing is pulling the skin edges apart. This ensures the best appearing scar for his patients. It is important to note that the scar tends to be slightly pink for weeks after surgery and the best results begin around the 6-8 week post-op period.
Why Should I Choose Dr. Kirk Lozada?
Dr. Lozada is a Facial Plastic & Reconstructive surgeon and Otolaryngology Head & Neck Surgeon. Dr. Lozada is committed to providing the highest quality aesthetic and reconstructive services for all his patients in Philadelphia and New Jersey. At our office a personalized treatment plan is essential and we allow sufficient time during consultation to develop a unique understanding of each patient’s desires. Dr. Lozada completed his fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania and has trained with the top Facial Plastic Surgeons in Philadelphia, New York, and New Jersey. Dr. Kirk Lozada is currently a member of the American Academy of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery and has numerous publications and presentations in the field of facial plastic surgery. Contact the office for your consultation today!