Procedures / Face /
lip lift
Procedure
The lip lift, permanent proportion
A discreet in-office procedure that restores youthful lip shape.
A Considered Approach
A lip lift, when done well, doesn't need upkeep.
As the upper lip lengthens with age, it can reduce tooth show when smiling and make the lips look thinner. A lip lift is a quick, in-office procedure that removes a small amount of excess length from the upper lip to better define the pink lip border and restore youthful proportions.
The Technique
Two Principles behind Every Lip Lift.
A lip lift offers a permanent alternative to filler, restoring youthful lip proportion. Every plan follows the same two principles:
01
Precise, algorithmic markings
Performed with sedation, incisions are placed along the base of the nose, where they scarring blends into the natural crease between the nose and upper lip.
02
Deep Plane Suspension
The deeper muscles and ligaments of the lip are resuspended, and excess skin is removed for a tension-free closure.
Inside the Procedure
From first conversation, to final follow-up.
01
Consultation
A private consultation to measure lip proportions and determine candidacy.
02
Pre-Operative
A detailed plan using the bullhorn technique is designed around your anatomy.
03
Treatment Day
Performed under local anesthesia in-office.
04
Recovery
Sutures typically removed in less than one week, with follow-up as swelling fully resolves.
Inside the Procedure
Is a Lip Lift right for you?
The honest answer is: sometimes, and sometimes not. Below is a starting framework — the final answer comes from a real conversation.
Often a Good Fit
Upper lip measuring more than 16mm
Little to no tooth show when smiling
Wants a permanent, surgical solution rather than filler
Worth Discussing First
Upper lip already within the 13–15mm ideal range
Prefers a temporary or reversible option
Surgery is a quiet art. The best results don't announce themselves; they simply look right.
Dr. John Luck
Recovery Timeline
What to expect.
Advanced techniques and intraoperative nerve blocking minimize discomfort and accelerate your return to daily life.
01
Days 1–3
Bruising and swelling are expected.
02
First Week
Most bruising subsides; sutures typically removed after seven days.
03
Week 2
Residual swelling continues to resolve.
Begin the Conversation
Schedule a lip lift surgery consultation.
Ninety unhurried minutes with Dr. Luck, in a setting designed for real conversation. No pressure — only a plan.
Common Questions
Answered with candor.
How is this different from filler?
A lip lift is a permanent surgical solution that shortens the space between the nose and lip, rather than adding temporary volume like filler.
What's the ideal candidate profile?
Patients with an upper lip measuring more than 16mm and minimal tooth show when smiling tend to see the most benefit.
Is there visible scarring?
Incisions are placed at the base of the nose, where scarring blends into the natural crease between the nose and lip.