A thoughtful approach to upper lip shape and facial balance.
A lip lift addresses the length of skin between the nose and upper lip. Explore how the procedure works, what recovery involves, and the questions to discuss with Dr. Johnny Mao.
A lip lift is a surgical procedure that corrects a long upper lip skin often associated with thin red part of the upper lip. By reducing the skin part of the upper lip below the nose, the maneuver upturns and results in more fullness of the red part of the upper lip. The result of a lip lift can be long lasting.*
How does a Lip Lift work?
A lip lift begins with a small, inconspicuous incision directly below the bottom part of the nostril. Enough skin is trimmed away and by designing the pattern of the skin removed, the red part of the upper lip is lifted and contoured to the desired shape. Incision is meticulously closed in multiple layers using fine sutures and without tension on the superficial skin itself to minimize trauma to this delicate area.
How long does a Lip Lift take?
A lip lift usually takes 1 hour to perform, and the patient is given local anesthesia with oral sedation if necessary. There is no bandage covering the incision. Patients apply wound healing ointment on the incision for about 2 weeks and the sutures are typically removed after 5-7 days.*
What is recovery like after a Lip Lift?
Swelling and bruising from the procedure can last up to 10 days. Applying cold compresses and keeping the head elevated for the first 48 hours following surgery minimizes swelling. Keeping the movement of the mouth at minimal is recommended for the first week post-surgery. Medication is prescribed to help alleviate discomfort.
Most patients return to work and other normal daily activities within a couple days.* More strenuous activities should be avoided for 1 to 2 weeks.
Are there any risks associated with a Lip Lift?
Although rare, possible risks and complications of a lip lift include the following:
Scarring
Excessive bleeding
Hematoma
Tissue death
Intense itching
Numbness
Skin discoloration
Persistent swelling
Lip contour irregularity
Nasal base contour irregularity
A more serious complication, also rare, is muscle/nerve damage that can lead to muscle weakness/paralysis.
Explore published patient cases related to this treatment at Mao Facial Plastic Surgery. Some cases include multiple procedures; the original case titles and details are retained. Individual results vary.
Get to know the surgeon behind Mao Facial Plastic Surgery.
Dr. Johnny Mao’s practice focuses on facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, with surgical and non-surgical options tailored to individual concerns. A consultation is the opportunity to discuss your features, your goals, and the care that may be appropriate for you.
Visit our Orange office to ask questions about treatment options, recovery, and follow-up, and learn more about Dr. Mao’s background and approach to care.
Injectables, fillers, and laser treatments remain available for patients exploring non-surgical care. Your consultation can help clarify which options fit your goals.
Welcoming patients from Branford, Cheshire, East Haven, Fairfield, Milford, North Haven, Orange, Shelton, Southport, Weston, Westport, Wilton, Woodbridge, New Canaan, Darien, and surrounding Connecticut communities.
Dr. Mao will listen to your concerns, examine your facial anatomy, and discuss surgical and non-surgical options suited to your goals. You will leave with a clear understanding of what to expect.
Facial plastic surgery focuses on procedures of the face, head, and neck — both cosmetic procedures like facelift and rhinoplasty and reconstructive treatments for functional concerns.
Recovery varies by procedure and by patient. Some non-surgical treatments involve little or no downtime. After surgery, the time needed to return to work or routine activities may range from several days to several weeks, while swelling, incision healing, and final results can continue to improve for weeks or months. During your consultation, Dr. Mao will explain the expected recovery timeline, activity restrictions, and follow-up care for the procedure being considered.
Good candidates are in general good health, have realistic expectations, and have specific concerns they would like addressed. A consultation is the best way to find out.
Begin Your Personalized Consultation
Meet with Dr. Johnny Mao to discuss your aesthetic goals and available facial rejuvenation options.
