Thinking about a lip lift? Wondering what the procedure is really like—from prep to surgery? I’m taking you behind the scenes of my second lip lift surgery, why I’m doing it again, and everything I did to prepare.
Watch the full journey on my YouTube channel here »
Why I Chose to Get a Lip Lift (Again)
As we age, the space between the nose and upper lip—called the philtrum—naturally lengthens. This subtle change can throw off facial proportions, making the lips appear thinner or more aged. While temporary options like lip filler or Botox can create some improvement, a lip lift is a more permanent solution for lifting and reshaping the upper lip for a youthful, balanced aesthetic.
Years ago, I had my first upper lip lift. I loved the results—but over time, the effects softened, and I decided to revisit the procedure with a new technique for even better longevity. This time around, Dr. Michael Rossi performed a deep plane lip lift with precision markings to address not just the central philtrum but also the outer corners of the lips—avoiding the dreaded "Cindy Lou Who" look.
Step 1: Dissolving Old Lip Filler with Hyaluronidase
Even though I hadn’t had filler in my lips since my 30s, I used hyaluronidase (Vitrase) to dissolve any residual product before surgery. Why?
Old hyaluronic acid filler—especially in the upper lip or philtral columns—can interfere with surgical precision and results.
💉 Hyaluronidase is an enzyme that breaks down hyaluronic acid-based fillers. It stings a bit, but it’s totally worth it.
If you’re considering a lip lift and have had filler in the past, I highly recommend asking your provider about this step.
Step 2: Botox Before Surgery? Yes—Here’s Why
In preparation for surgery, I also injected small doses of Botox around the mouth, specifically to relax the muscles that would otherwise pull on the surgical site post-procedure. This technique is based on principles from reconstructive surgery—relaxing the surrounding muscles helps minimize scar tension and improve healing.
Dr. Rossi even guided me on the precise injection points based on new research, including studies done on cleft palate reconstruction in children. Science + aesthetics = optimal results!
The Lip Lift Surgery Day: What It’s Like
The day of surgery, I woke up, did my skincare routine, and ate a light breakfast with Greek yogurt, berries, and my daily collagen peptides (of course!). I wanted everything to be perfect—even down to whitening my teeth for the best before-and-after photos.
This procedure is done under local anesthesia in-office and usually takes under an hour. Dr. Rossi used a bullhorn-shaped incision pattern to give a natural lift across the entire upper lip, not just the center. This creates a balanced, youthful result that flatters your entire face—not just the cupid’s bow.
Recovery & Swelling: What to Expect
Let’s talk about the real stuff—post-surgery swelling. It’s no joke. I chose not to take steroids, which would have reduced swelling, but I managed with Tylenol, Benadryl, arnica tablets, and a lot of icing.
If you’re planning a lip lift:
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Expect major swelling on days 1–3
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Avoid excessive mouth movement to prevent scar stretch
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Consider Botox beforehand to limit post-op muscular strain
“Swelling is temporary. Scar care is essential. And patience is your best friend during recovery.”
Why I’m Sharing My Lip Lift Experience
I’m a double board-certified dermatologist who lives for science-backed aesthetics—but I’m also a real person who undergoes the same procedures I recommend. That’s why I’m sharing my full, unfiltered journey of getting a second lip lift—so you know what to expect and feel empowered to make the best decisions for yourself.
▶️ Watch the full vlog, see my before-and-afters, and follow my recovery on YouTube now:
👉 Click here to watch the video »
Final Thoughts
Whether you're exploring alternatives to filler or simply want to restore youthful proportions to your face, a lip lift can be a beautiful, lasting option. With the right preparation, the right technique, and the right provider, it can make a powerful but natural difference.
