Lip Lift

The lips play an important role in facial expression and overall balance. Whether due to aging or natural anatomy, the space between the nose and upper lip can lengthen, and the upper lip may appear thinner or less defined.

At Columbia, our facial plastic surgeons focus on precise, natural-looking results that complement your features.

What Is a Lip Lift?

A lip lift is a surgical procedure that shortens the distance between the nose and the upper lip, also known as the philtrum, gently elevating the lip to improve shape and definition. This allows more of the upper lip to show, creating a fuller appearance without the use of fillers.

Unlike injectable lip treatments, which temporarily add volume to the lips, a lip lift permanently changes the position of the upper lip.

A lip lift may help improve:

• A long space between the nose and upper lip
• A thin or less visible upper lip
• A less defined Cupid’s bow
• A downturned or less defined lip shape
• Imbalance between the upper and lower lip

Lip Lifts at Columbia

We offer several types of lip lift procedures, customized to your lip shape, philtrum length, and overall facial anatomy and proportions:

• Bullhorn (subnasal) lip lift: The surgeon makes a small incision beneath the nose and removes skin to lift the center and sides of the upper lip.
• Corner lip lift: This approach lifts skin above the outer corners of the mouth to address downturned lips.

What to Expect

A lip lift is typically performed as an outpatient procedure using local anesthesia, sometimes with sedation. The procedure usually takes about an hour.

You’ll likely experience mild swelling and tightness in the first one to two weeks after surgery. Your surgeon will remove your sutures within several days, and most patients return to normal activities shortly afterward.