Surgical Upper Lip Lift

As we age, our lips can start to look thinner and this can cause the face to look even older. Lifestyle choices such as smoking and excessive sun exposure can also have an effect on the appearance of the lips, as can genetics and some dental procedures. If a permanent result is required, injectable dermal fillers may not be the answer. Therefore, at Dr Medispa we now offer a long-lasting cosmetic procedure which can permanently lift the upper lip, to enhance its appearance by re-shaping and lifting.

This procedure is performed by Dr Berridge who states – “A surgical upper lip lift is truly a transformational rejuvenating procedure for the correctly selected patient”

Why should I consider a surgical lip lift procedure (‘lip flip’)

If you are someone who desires a more defined, youthful and plumper upper lip contour, but don’t wish to attend the clinic regularly for dermal filler injections, or you are nervous of needles or sensitive to HA dermal filler products, this procedure is the more permanent, surgical alternative to injectables.

Which concerns can the ‘lip flip’ address?

This surgical procedure addresses the signs of an aged or genetically elongated upper lip (as measured from the base of the nose). It can also add volume and a more attractive shape to a thin upper lip vermillion (the red portion of the upper lip). During this surgery, the region of the upper lip, beneath the nose is treated.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens during a ‘lip flip’ surgery?

The surgery involves making a ‘bullhorn’ incision beneath the nose and removing a small amount of skin, to lift the upper lip. The procedure is performed under a local anaesthetic and takes around an hour to complete.

Am I suitable for an upper ‘lip flip’ surgery?

Before we can agree that a surgical lip lift surgery is going to be effective for you, as well as safe for you to undergo, we will ask that you attend a no obligation, pre-surgery consultation and facial examination. We will also check your medical history to ensure that there are no contraindications that might prevent or restrict the surgery from going ahead. These include a risk of abnormal scarring (keloids), a history of active skin disorders in the area to be treated, actively smoking and if you have a short upper lip or excessive upper tooth show.

Does upper ‘lip flip’ surgery hurt?

The surgery is performed under a local anaesthetic and post-treatment pain is minimal. Any discomfort can be managed with regular analgesic medicines, prescribed for you, after your surgery

Will I need stitches?

You will require stitches following your upper ‘lip flip’ surgery. These are non-dissolvable and are removed at day 5 or 6, after the surgery.

Will there be any swelling after my upper ‘lip flip’ surgery?

As with any surgery which requires the use of a scalpel and sutures, there will be some post-operative swelling. This can take up to one week to fully resolve. Avoiding hot saunas, steam, excessive alcohol consumption and applying cold compresses can minimise swelling.

Are there any risks or side-effects to an upper ‘lip flip’ surgery?

Associated risks include bleeding, infection, asymmetry, scarring and tissue numbness. These risks will be discussed with you at your pre-surgery consultation.