Lip Lift
What Is a Lip Lift?
A lip lift is a surgical procedure designed to create a more youthful, balanced upper lip by shortening the distance between the base of the nose and the upper lip, an area that can lengthen with age. By subtly lifting the upper lip, the procedure can increase the visible “pink” portion of the lip (the vermilion) and improve lip shape without adding bulk. A lip lift does not create volume in the same way filler or fat transfer does. Instead, it refines proportion and enhances definition in a way that can look very natural when planned carefully. The incision is typically hidden at the base of the nose, and the approach is tailored to your facial anatomy and aesthetic goals.
What Are the Benefits of a Lip Lift?
A lip lift can provide elegant, lasting enhancement of the upper lip and overall facial balance. Benefits may include:
Improved upper lip proportion by shortening an elongated upper lip
Increased show of the upper lip for a more youthful, defined appearance
Enhanced lip shape and definition, including a more visible cupid’s bow
Reduced reliance on filler for patients who primarily want improved lip show rather than added volume
Better balance between the lips, teeth, and smile in select patients
The goal is subtle refinement, creating a fresher, more harmonious look without an overfilled appearance.
Who Are Candidates for a Lip Lift?
You may be a good candidate for a lip lift if you want a more youthful, balanced upper lip and your concerns are primarily related to lip proportion rather than simply adding volume. Ideal candidates often:
Have a longer distance between the base of the nose and the upper lip (which can become more noticeable with age)
Feel the upper lip looks thin because there is limited “pink” lip show, especially at rest
Want improved definition of the cupid’s bow and upper lip shape
Want a more youthful relationship between the upper lip and teeth, with more natural tooth show when smiling in select patients
Prefer a lasting structural change rather than repeated filler treatments
A lip lift may be less suitable if the main goal is increased overall lip volume, or if concerns are better addressed with filler, fat transfer, or other facial balancing procedures. Often, a lip lift can be combined with judicious fat transfer to the lips for a natural volume enhancement. During your consultation, Dr. Cheng will evaluate your facial proportions, lip shape, and smile dynamics to determine whether a lip lift is the best option and to recommend the approach that will look the most natural.
