Lip aging develops gradually and affects both the lips themselves and the surrounding skin. Typical changes include:
1. Lengthening and drooping of the upper lip — the distance between the nose and the upper lip increases, giving a longer appearance.
2. Thinning of the lips — the vermilion (the pink-red part) loses fullness as collagen, elastin, and fat decrease over time.
3. Flattened Cupid’s bow — the once-distinct “M” shape of the upper lip becomes less pronounced.
4. Loss of philtrum definition — the vertical ridges between the upper lip and the base of the nose (philtral columns) fade and appear smoother.
5. Fine lines and wrinkles — Often called “smoker’s lines” or “lipstick lines,” these vertical creases form due to repetitive muscle movement, sun damage, and collagen loss.
A lip lift is a refined cosmetic surgery that shortens the distance between the upper lip and the base of the nose. By gently elevating the upper lip, it enhances the balance and youthful definition of the mouth.
Unlike injectable fillers that only add volume, a lip lift reshapes the lip itself, revealing more of the pink area (vermilion) and creating a naturally fuller, more attractive smile with long-lasting results.
A lip lift is designed to:
1. Shorten an elongated or droopy upper lip, restoring youthful proportions.
2. Create a naturally fuller and more lifted upper lip — without fillers.
3. Reveal more of the upper teeth when smiling, giving a livelier expression.
4. Enhance facial balance and harmony, especially when the upper lip appears long or thin.
5. Provide long-lasting results, unlike temporary dermal fillers.
Preparation
1. Medical Conditions and Allergies
Inform your doctor of any pre-existing medical conditions or drug allergies. All medical conditions must be properly treated and stabilized before surgery.
2. Smoking
Stop smoking at least one week before surgery. Smoking impairs wound healing and significantly increases the risk of post-operative complications.
3. Medications and Supplements
Discontinue the following one week before surgery and continue avoiding them until one week after surgery:
a. Supplements: Avoid all supplements containing vitamin E, ginseng, ginkgo, garlic, fish oil, or any other substances that may increase bleeding. Stop any traditional medicine or herbal remedies with unknown ingredients.
b. Medications: Medications that may increase bleeding—such as aspirin, NSAIDs, and warfarin—should also be stopped. However, please consult your prescribing physician before discontinuing them.
4. On the Day of Surgery
a. Wear simple and comfortable clothing.
b. Do not wear any makeup, jewellery or metal objects on your face or body.
Your careful preparation is essential for a safe surgery and smooth recovery.
If unsure about anything, please contact your medical team.
Surgery Overview
Duration: Approximately 1 hour
Anaesthesia: Local anaesthesia
Hospital Stay: Not required
Procedure Overview
1. Usually performed under local anesthesia, allowing patients to stay comfortable and awake throughout the procedure.
2. A small strip of skin is carefully removed from just beneath the nose, often in a shape resembling a bullhorn — hence the name “bullhorn lip lift.”
3. The upper lip is then gently lifted and secured into a higher position, shortening the philtrumand enhancing the natural curvature of the lips.
4. The woundis discreetly placed along the base of the nose, making the resulting scar barely visible once healed.
Postoperative Care Guide
What to Expect:
♦ Swelling: Peaks around Days 2–3, then gradually subsides.
♦ Tightness and pulling sensation of the upper lip may be present and typically lasts 1–2 weeks。
♦ Ice compress: Applying cold compresses intermittently helps minimize swelling.
♦ Eating & speaking: Soft foods are recommended; excessive lip movement should be minimized.
Home Care Essentials
1. Avoid Smoking & Alcohol
♦ Smoking: Strictly prohibited for at least 1 month, ideally for 6 months postoperatively. Nicotine constricts blood vessels, impairing circulation, delaying healing and increasing infection risk.
♦ Alcohol: Avoid for 2 weeks postoperatively to prevent interference with medication metabolism or exacerbating swelling.
2. Rest & Nutrition
♦ Rest: Ensure 7–8 hours of quality sleep daily; avoid staying up late.
♦ Diet: Consume protein-rich, vitamin C- and zinc-rich foods (e.g., eggs, fish, lean meat, fresh fruits/vegetables) to support tissue repair.
♦ Hydration: Drink ample water daily to aid metabolism and reduce swelling.
3. Mental Adjustment
♦ Feeling worried or anxious after surgery is completely normal. Try to stay positive and give yourself time to heal. Deep breathing, gentle meditation, or listening to calming music can help you relax and feel more at ease.
Medication Guidance
1. Antibiotics
♦ Take exactly as prescribed—do not stop early or reduce dosage, even if symptoms improve, to prevent infection.
2. Pain Medication
♦ Take as needed for pain relief. Contact the clinic immediately if pain is severe or worsening.
♦ Avoid taking on an empty stomach to prevent gastric discomfort.
Wound Care Protocol
♦ Keep the incision clean and dry; apply prescribed ointment to promote healing and reduce scarring
♦ Protect the wound from sunlight.
Follow-Up Schedule
♦ First Visit: Return to the clinic on Day 7 for wound assessment and removal of sutures
♦ Subsequent Visits: Based on individual recovery, follow-ups will be scheduled at Month 2 and Month 6 to ensure long-term safety and outcomes.
♦ Scar management may be started one month after surgery: Silicone gel, sunscreen, or laser treatments may be recommended to optimise scar appearance.
Emergency Situations
Contact the clinic immediately if you experience any of the following:
♦ Sudden heavy bleeding or hematoma at the surgical site.
♦ Rapidly escalating swelling accompanied by severe pain.
♦ Redness, warmth, pus, or foul odour at the incision site.
Important Reminder
The above guidelines are general recommendations. Individual recovery timelines and responses may vary. Always follow your surgeon’s personalized instructions. Contact us anytime for questions, concerns, or discomfort—we’re here to help.
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