Lip Lift (Bullhorn Technique)

Treatment details: Lip Lift (Bullhorn Technique)

The treatment area is beneath the nose. In a lip lift, the skin there is excised and sutured to lift the upper lip, which shortens the distance from the base of the nose to the upper lip (the philtrum). The doctor marks the skin to be removed while considering the balance with other facial parts. The wound is sutured with the aim of keeping the scar inconspicuous.

The bottom image was taken 3 months after treatment, well after the one to two weeks during which swelling, bruising and redness may occur after a lip lift.

The amount of skin removed greatly influences the outcome. The procedure may accentuate a gummy smile. A scar remains where the sutures are placed, inside the nostrils or along the shadow of the nose. People who are prone to keloids should consult a doctor in advance.

Stitches are usually removed about one week after the procedure, and until then makeup should be avoided on the sutured area under the nose. Bruising fades in about 10 days and severe swelling lasts about one week, although both vary by individual. Some redness or swelling may occur for one to two weeks but will gradually subside. Aging may cause changes over time.