Lip lifts have garnered significant attention in recent years due to their ability to enhance facial aesthetics by shortening the distance between the nose and the upper lip.
This seemingly simple procedure can dramatically improve facial harmony and provide a youthful appearance. Whether you're considering a lip lift for cosmetic reasons or to combat signs of aging, this guide will cover all aspects of lip lifts, both surgical and non-surgical, to help you make an informed decision.
Make sure to watch the corresponding YouTube video for a deep dive on Lip Lifting
The Importance of the Philtrum
The philtrum is the area between the nose and the upper lip. Its length plays a crucial role in facial aesthetics. As we age, this distance tends to elongate due to skeletal changes, fat pad atrophy, and other factors.
A longer philtrum can disrupt facial harmony, making the face appear older.
The Mathematics of Facial Beauty
Beauty is often defined by balance and symmetry. The golden ratio (1.62) has been used for centuries to determine aesthetically pleasing proportions.
Elongation of the philtrum can throw off this balance, making a person look older. Research and aesthetic principles suggest that shortening the philtrum can restore facial harmony and enhance beauty.
What is a Lip Lift?
A lip lift is a procedure that shortens the distance between the nose and the upper lip, improving facial balance and providing an anti-aging effect.
This can be achieved through various methods, with surgical lip lifts being the gold standard.
Surgical Lip Lift
Surgical lip lifts are the most effective way to shorten the philtrum. The procedure involves removing a small strip of skin under the nose, resulting in a scar that is usually well-concealed.
Different surgeons may use varying techniques, which can influence the outcome and appearance of the scar. It's essential to choose a surgeon experienced in this specific procedure and review their before-and-after photos.
Non-Surgical Lip Lift Options
Not everyone has an interest in surgical interventions. There are several in-office procedures that your can utilize to get some lip lifting results.
- Thermage : This device is excellent for skin tightening. It isn't my top choice for a non-surgical lip lift, though it may offer minor lip lifting results
- Ellacor : A new micro-coring technology that reduces fine lines and tightens the lower face. It can help shorten the philtrum without surgery and with minimal downtime. This is my favorite option for non-surgical lip lifting outcomes.
- Lip Flip : This technique uses botulinum toxin to relax the muscles around the mouth, which can help maintain a fuller upper lip when smiling but might elongate the philtrum.
- Laser Lip Lift: CO2 laser resurfacing can be a powerful way to shrink the skin and shorten the length of the philtrum.
As with all non-surgical options, the outcome will never be as profound as a surgical lip lift, but for certain patients, non-surgical options like CO2 or Ellacor may be the perfect option for a scar-less lip lift effect.
Combining Non-Surgical Treatments
Combining treatments like Ellacor with Fraxel or CO2 laser resurfacing can enhance the results.
Ellacor removes small amounts of tissue to shorten the philtrum, while lasers smooth and stimulate collagen production, as well as offering some “shrinking” effects to the skin in the treated area.
Choosing the Right Provider
When selecting a provider for a lip lift, it's crucial to choose someone experienced with the specific technique, whether surgical or non-surgical.
For surgical lip lifts, opt for a facial plastic surgeon with a substantial track record. Look at their before and afters and look for someone who specializes in lips (as opposed to body or otherwise). For non-surgical methods, find a provider well-versed in the chosen technology.
My Lip Lift
I had a lip lift in 2021 and I have loved the results. The procedure was done under local anesthesia with a week-long recovery.
Over time, due to natural movements and aging, the effects may diminish, and I might consider another lip lift soon. I prioritize treatments that stimulate the body's regenerative processes over fillers for a more natural and long-lasting result.
If I have another lip lift in the near future, I will document the process for you to come along with me.
Frequently Asked Lip Lift Questions
- Can I still have a lip lift if I’ve had other treatments?
- Yes, previous treatments like Thermage or Ellacor do not preclude you from having a lip lift surgery, although fillers may need to be dissolved first.
- How long does a surgical lip lift last?
- Results can last about five years, depending on individual factors and facial anatomy.
- Does a lip lift affect speech?
- Initially, it may slightly alter how you talk as you adjust to the new tension and length.
Lip lifts, whether surgical or non-surgical, offer a viable solution for enhancing facial aesthetics and achieving a youthful appearance.
If you're considering a non-surgical lip lift option in Newport Beach, feel free to reach out to my office and ask about Ellacor and CO2 for Lip Lifting.
Make sure to watch the corresponding YouTube video for more details.
MDAiRE for Anti-Aging Results
Just like surgical intervention isn't always what a patient is looking for, you may not be interested in or able to have in- office procedures.
What do you do then to combat some of these signs of aging? You consistently use high quality skincare products in your routine.
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