Lip Lift

A lip lift is a surgical procedure that physically shortens the upper cutaneous lip — the skin between the nose and the upper lip — by removing a small strip of skin at the base of the nose. This elevates the lip, reveals more of the pink vermilion, and improves the Cupid's bow. Lip filler adds volume but does not change the position or shape of the lip. A lip lift produces permanent results, while filler requires ongoing maintenance every 6–18 months.

Good candidates are patients who feel their upper lip looks thin, flat, or aged — particularly those who notice the distance between their nose and upper lip has lengthened over time, or whose upper teeth are no longer visible when the mouth is at rest. A lip lift is also a good option for patients who have tried filler but want a more permanent, natural result. Dr. Lemelman will assess your lip proportions and facial anatomy during your consultation.

The incision is placed precisely at the base of the nose, where it heals within the natural shadow and contour of the nostrils. With proper wound care, the scar becomes very discreet and is typically not visible in normal social settings. Dr. Lemelman's meticulous technique prioritizes scar placement and closure to minimize visibility.

Yes — a lip lift pairs well with lip filler or fat grafting for patients who want both improved shape and added volume. It is also commonly combined with a facelift, eyelid lift, or other facial rejuvenation procedures for a comprehensive result. Dr. Lemelman will discuss which combination best addresses your goals during your consultation.

A lip lift produces permanent results. The skin that is removed does not grow back, so the shortened philtrum and elevated lip position are lasting. While natural aging continues over time, the improvement achieved with a lip lift is permanent compared to the untreated state.

The cost of a lip lift in Chicago varies based on the complexity of the procedure and whether it is combined with other treatments. During your consultation at One Plastic Surgery, Dr. Lemelman's team will provide a detailed quote that includes the surgeon's fee, anesthesia, and facility costs. Because a lip lift is an elective cosmetic procedure, it is not covered by insurance.

Recovery after a lip lift is relatively quick. Sutures are removed at 5–7 days, and most patients return to work and normal activities within 7–10 days. Swelling and mild bruising are common in the first week and typically resolve within 2–4 weeks. Final results — including full scar maturation — are visible at 6–8 weeks. Dr. Lemelman will provide detailed post-operative instructions to support your healing.

No — a lip lift at One Plastic Surgery is performed under local anesthesia as an outpatient procedure. General anesthesia is not required. The procedure takes approximately 45–60 minutes, and patients go home the same day.

A subnasal bullhorn lip lift is the most common lip lift technique. The name describes the shape of the skin excision: a curved strip of skin is removed at the base of the nose in a pattern that resembles the horns of a bull. This technique allows the surgeon to elevate the lip evenly across its full width while placing the scar within the natural crease at the base of the nose. Dr. Lemelman uses this approach for most lip lift patients.

A lip lift is not typically the primary treatment for a gummy smile. A gummy smile — where excessive gum tissue shows when smiling — is usually addressed with different techniques, including Botox to relax the upper lip elevator muscles, or orthognathic surgery for skeletal causes. However, if a patient has both a long philtrum and mild gum show, Dr. Lemelman will assess the anatomy and recommend the most appropriate approach during consultation.