Rejuvenate Your Smile and Enhance Your Facial Harmony.

What It Is: A lip lift is a surgical procedure designed to shorten the space between the nose and the upper lip, known as the philtrum. With age, genetics, or previous treatments, this area can lengthen, causing the upper lip to appear thinner and turn inward. By shortening the philtrum, a lip lift creates a more youthful and proportional appearance, making the upper lip look fuller and allowing more of the central teeth to be visible when smiling. Dr. Tork specializes in this procedure as a permanent solution for lip rejuvenation that addresses the underlying structure, not just the volume.

Who Is a Candidate? Ideal candidates for a lip lift in our Cincinnati practice are individuals with a long philtrum who feel their upper lip is too thin, or whose upper lip rolls inward and disappears when they smile. This procedure is also an excellent option for those who are seeking a long-term, permanent alternative to repeated lip filler injections to achieve a fuller upper lip. Candidates should be in good overall health and have realistic expectations about the results. A consultation with Dr. Tork at our Indian Hill office will determine if a lip lift is the right surgical lip enhancement for you.

Our Approach: Dr. Tork's artistic and meticulous approach ensures a natural-looking and harmonious result. The procedure involves a small, precise incision hidden discreetly under the base of the nose, often referred to as a "bullhorn" or "gullwing" shape. A small amount of skin is then removed, and the upper lip is gently lifted and sutured into its new position. This technique lifts the lip while also e-verting it slightly, creating a naturally fuller appearance without an over-pulled look. The final scar is strategically placed to be as inconspicuous as possible.

Recovery & Results: Initial swelling and some tenderness are normal after a lip lift and typically subside within the first week. Stitches are usually removed within 5-7 days. The final, refined result becomes apparent as the swelling fully resolves over the following weeks and months. The result is a permanently more youthful and defined upper lip.

Lip Lift FAQ

How is a lip lift different from lip fillers? A lip lift is a surgical procedure that shortens the philtrum (the space between the nose and the lip), permanently increasing the visible portion of the upper lip. Lip fillers, on the other hand, are temporary injectables that add volume to the lips directly. A lip lift is a long-term solution that addresses the underlying facial structure.

How long do the results last? A lip lift provides permanent results, making it a great choice for patients who want a lasting solution without the need for ongoing maintenance treatments.

What is the scar like? The incision is carefully placed in the natural crease at the base of the nose, making the resulting scar very discreet and often imperceptible once fully healed. Dr. Tork and his team will provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure optimal healing.

Can a lip lift be combined with other procedures? Yes. Many patients choose to combine a lip lift with other facial rejuvenation procedures, such as a deep plane facelift, neck lift, or chin augmentation, to achieve a more comprehensive and harmonious result.

Ready to rejuvenate your smile? Schedule a consultation for a lip lift with our Cincinnati plastic surgeon.