Lip Lift
in Beverly Hills & Santa Barbara

Two additional procedures complement the upper lip lift when comprehensive rejuvenation is needed.

The V-Y lower lip lift addresses the aging lower lip. As we age, the lower lip drops and loses volume, often exposing the lower teeth at rest (the opposite of youthful anatomy, where lower smile is hidden). This procedure advances tissue from inside the mouth (the mucosa) to create more fullness in the lower lip and better coverage of the lower teeth. Because all incisions are inside the mouth, there is no visible scar. The incisions are made in a “V” pattern and closed in a “Y” configuration, hence the name. Even patients with naturally full lower lips can benefit, as the issue is often position rather than size.

The corner of the mouth lift addresses the downturned corners that create an angry or sad appearance. Small incisions are made at the corners of the mouth to elevate the tissue and create a more neutral or slightly upturned expression. In fair-skinned patients, the scars typically heal very favorably. However, in olive or darker skin tones, the benefit must be weighed against the risk of a visible scar at a prominent location.

All three procedures can be performed together under local anesthesia in a single session. This comprehensive approach addresses multiple aspects of lip aging: the elongated upper lip, the dropped lower lip, and the downturned corners. The combined effect can dramatically rejuvenate the lower face.

The lip lift is frequently performed alongside other facial procedures for comprehensive rejuvenation.

Lip lift with rhinoplasty is a common combination, though it requires careful planning. Open rhinoplasty involves an incision across the columella (the tissue between the nostrils), which affects blood supply to this area. Performing both procedures simultaneously is safe in healthy non-smokers, but the timing and surgical plan must account for the shared blood supply. In some cases, staging the procedures several months apart is preferable.

Lip lift with facelift addresses both the central face (the lips) and the lower face and neck. While the facelift rejuvenates the jawline and neck, it does little for the upper lip region. Adding a lip lift completes the rejuvenation of the lower face.

Lip lift with facial fat grafting combines structural improvement (the lift) with volume restoration. Fat can be added to the lips themselves, as well as to the nasolabial folds, marionette lines, and other areas of facial volume loss.

Lip lift with laser resurfacing addresses both structure and skin quality. Laser treatment can improve fine lines around the mouth (smoker’s lines) and enhance overall skin texture, while the lift addresses the elongation issue.

For patients seeking significant perioral (around the mouth) rejuvenation, combining multiple treatments in a single session minimizes overall recovery time compared to staging each procedure separately.

The upper lip lift, often called a “bullhorn” lip lift due to the shape of the incision, is designed to shorten the elongated upper lip and restore youthful anatomy.

The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, which offers a significant advantage: you can see the proposed result before any tissue is removed. Using temporary sutures, Dr. Neavin simulates the lift and provides a mirror so you can approve the degree of elevation. This real-time feedback is invaluable for achieving results that match your expectations.

The incision is carefully designed along the base of the nose, following its natural contours. Various modifications of the bullhorn design allow for customization based on individual anatomy. In some cases, portions of the incision can be hidden within the nostrils themselves.

Generally, no more than 7mm of skin should be excised at any point to minimize the risk of a widened scar. For patients requiring more significant lifting, staging the procedure into two operations several months apart produces better results than an overly aggressive single surgery.

After the skin is removed, dissection is performed toward the lip to allow proper rotation of the tissue. The orbicularis muscle (the muscle surrounding the mouth) may be secured to deeper tissues to support the lip and reduce tension on the skin closure. The wound is closed in multiple layers with both absorbable internal sutures and removable external sutures.
The external sutures are removed at 6-7 days. Scar care, which may include silicone sheeting and sun protection, begins shortly after and continues for several months.