Lip lift surgery is a procedure designed to shorten the upper lip, providing a more youthful balance to the facial features. It is typically performed on adults who have experienced a drooping upper lip due to natural aging, genetics, or medical conditions. A common issue is when the upper lip hangs low, covering the upper teeth, which is referred to as “lip ptosis.”
The procedure involves an incision just below the nostrils, where the upper lip meets the nose. This incision follows a “bull horn” shape or a variation of this pattern to shorten the upper lip and make the philtrum (the area above the upper lip) and the vermillion (the red part of the lip) more prominent. By shortening the lip, the procedure can help create a more balanced and youthful appearance.
As people age, the upper lip often elongates, which can make a person appear older than they are. This common change is well-documented in plastic surgery literature. Lip lift surgery offers a solution by shortening the upper lip and improving the overall appearance of the mouth area.
Initial Consultation:
During the initial consultation, you will meet Dr. Richard Hamilton, who will assess your concerns and discuss the lip lift procedure in detail. Dr. Hamilton will explain the technique, recovery time, and associated costs. Photographs may be taken for planning purposes, and you will receive information about the surgery and what to expect.
Second Consultation:
After reviewing the information from the first consultation, you may choose to move forward with the surgery. At this time, you will meet Dr. Hamilton again for a second consultation. You will also meet with our Patient Advisor and Practice Nurse to discuss surgical documentation and pre-and post-operative care instructions.
Once you’ve decided to proceed, surgery dates will be scheduled, and payment arrangements may be made—typically 7 days after the second consultation.
Lip lift surgery can be performed as a standalone procedure or as part of a broader facial rejuvenation plan (such as a facelift).
Lip lift surgery can be done under local anaesthesia or intravenous sedation. The procedure begins with an incision just below the nostrils, where the upper lip meets the nose. The incision follows a “bull horn” shape or a variation based on your individual anatomy and needs. Dr. Hamilton carefully determines the amount of skin that can be safely removed—usually around 2 – 3mm – ensuring a natural result without an overly dramatic appearance.
With decades of experience, Dr. Hamilton places the incision discreetly to minimise visible scarring. After making the incision, the skin is carefully lifted from the underlying muscle, and deep sutures are used to achieve the desired lift. Fine sutures are then used to close the incision.
The results of lip lift surgery are typically noticeable once the initial swelling subsides. Family and friends will often notice the change soon after the procedure. After approximately six months, the scar becomes barely noticeable, thanks to Dr. Hamilton’s skill and experience.
Dr. Hamilton’s extensive experience ensures that the procedure provides a natural and balanced result, helping to restore a more youthful appearance without an artificial look.
Please Note: All surgery carries some degree of risk, and outcomes may vary.
Risks and Complications may include
• Bleeding
• Infection
• Scarring
• Under or Over Correction
Dr Hamilton will discuss these risks with you thoroughly during the consultation process to ensure you are fully informed before proceeding with surgery.
Dr. Hamilton will discuss potential risks, complications, and realistic expectations during your consultation to ensure you make an informed decision.
For further information or to schedule a consultation, please contact Dr. Richard Hamilton’s team at 08 8272 6666.
Please note that the information about procedures here is given as a general guide, and is not a substitute for an in depth, personal consultation with Dr. Hamilton. As with any surgery there are risks and complications to consider, all of which will be clearly communicated to you during your one on one consultation with Dr. Hamilton.
