Patients consider a lip lift for several reasons, many of which relate to the natural aging process or individual anatomic features of the upper lip. Some of the most common motivations include:

A Long or Elongated Upper Lip

As we age, the skin between the nose and upper lip (known as the “philtrum”) lengthens. This can cause the upper lip to appear thinner, less visible, or to “roll inward.” A lip lift shortens this distance, making the upper lip more pronounced and youthful.

Desire for More Visible Lip Volume Without Fillers

Some patients do not want the added fullness that comes with lip fillers or prefer a more natural, subtle enhancement. A lip lift increases the amount of pink lip tissue that shows, giving the lips a fuller appearance without adding volume.

Poor Definition of the Cupid’s Bow

A well-defined cupid’s bow is one hallmark of a youthful lip. A lip lift can subtly enhance the curvature and contour of the upper lip, bringing more definition to the central lip shape.

Age-Related Changes

With time, collagen loss and skin laxity may make the mouth appear downturned or expressionless. A lip lift elevates and reshapes the upper lip, helping restore a more vibrant, refreshed look.

Creating Better Tooth Show

A shortened philtrum often leads to a subtle increase in upper tooth show, which many patients associate with a more youthful, aesthetically pleasing smile.

A bullhorn lip lift is named for the “bullhorn-shaped” incision that follows the natural curve under the nose. The goal is to create a natural elevation of the upper lip while keeping the scar discreet and nearly invisible once healed.

Consultation and Design

Every lip lift begins with a thorough evaluation of facial proportions, lip symmetry, and the patient’s goals by board-certified dermatologic surgeon Dr. Thomas Knackstedt and the aesthetics team at Peak Skin Center. Your provider measures the philtrum length, lip thickness, and overall facial balance to determine how much tissue should be removed for a natural improvement. The incision line is planned carefully to blend seamlessly with the base of the nose.

The Procedure

• Local anesthesia is typically sufficient, making it an outpatient procedure with minimal downtime.
• A small, curved section of skin is removed directly beneath the nose following a precise pattern.
• The upper lip is gently elevated, shortening the philtrum.
• The incision is closed with fine sutures to minimize scarring.

The key to a successful lip lift is achieving a natural lift without exaggeration. The goal is improved visibility of the upper lip, enhanced shape, and harmonious facial proportions.

Recovery from a lip lift is generally smooth and well-tolerated.

Immediately After the Procedure

Patients may experience mild swelling, tightness, or tenderness. Most return to normal activities within a few days, although strenuous exercise should be avoided for about one to two weeks. Sutures are usually removed after seven days. Keeping the incision clean and following aftercare instructions is essential for optimal healing. The incision is placed at the natural crease under the nose, making the scar well concealed. Over time, any scar typically fades significantly.

Short-Term Results

You will see an immediate lift of the upper lip, although swelling may temporarily obscure final results. By 2–4 weeks, the lip begins to look natural and well-settled.

Long-Term Results

A bullhorn lip lift provides permanent enhancement, creating a shorter, more youthful philtrum, greater visibility of the natural pink lip, enhanced definition of the cupid’s bow, improved facial balance and a subtle increase in tooth show when smiling.

Most patients love the result for its natural, elegant improvement without the need for repeated filler treatments.