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Facial aging in the lower third of the face involves distinct structural changes. The upper lip lengthens. The distance between the base of the nose and the vermilion border increases over time. The upper teeth vanish behind the skin when the mouth is at rest. Piney Point patients experiencing this elongation often feel their expression reads as tired, stern, or older than their actual age.
Many attempt to correct this shift using dermal fillers, hoping to achieve a youthful look. Fillers add mass. They cannot shorten skin. Injecting more volume into an elongated upper lip pushes the tissue forward, creating a heavy, projected profile. A lip lift surgery provides a mechanical correction. It removes skin, elevates the resting position of the lip, and restores architectural balance to the lower face.
An upper lip lift is a surgical procedure that shortens the philtrum—the vertical space between the nose and the top of the lip. The operation elevates the resting position of the mouth. It rolls the existing pink tissue outward to enhance the shape and form of the lip without requiring temporary treatments.
At a Glance | Details |
|---|---|
| Best for | An elongated philtrum, a thinning upper lip, lack of upper tooth show, and "filler fatigue" |
| Treatment type | Surgical upper lip lift (subnasal technique) |
| Downtime | Five to seven days of visible social downtime, followed by continued refinement |
| Pain level | Tightness and swelling rather than sharp pain for most patients |
| Treatment length | Under an hour |
| When results appear | The shape is visible right away, though swelling distorts the immediate contour; refinement continues over several months |
| How long results last | Permanent, though the face continues to age naturally |
Patients often compare cosmetic procedures, trying to decide between injections and surgery. The correct choice depends entirely on your anatomy.
Dermal fillers work well for patients who are young, have a short philtrum, and simply possess naturally thin lips. The filler provides hydration and plumping.
However, as collagen depletes and facial muscle tone weakens with age, the actual skin of the upper lip stretches. If your philtrum measures longer than 15 millimeters, adding fillers will distort your facial features. A lip lift specifically addresses this structural elongation that Piney Point patients seek. By removing the excess length, the lip lift procedure creates the appearance of more volume naturally.
Most patients seeking this cosmetic surgery fall into two distinct categories. Some individuals possess a genetically long philtrum from birth and want to improve their facial proportions. Others notice distinct changes as they get older. Sagging skin causes the lip to drop inward, hiding the upper teeth.
You are likely a strong candidate for a lip lift if you want to:
If your primary goal is to address deep vertical wrinkles around the mouth, skin resurfacing treatments may be necessary alongside the surgery. A lip lift removes a small amount of skin, which can improve some lines, but it does not erase deep surface wrinkles entirely.
Dr. Lapuerta uses an exact surgical technique to ensure natural-looking results. Plastic surgery on the face requires absolute precision to avoid distorting the nose or the mouth.
The lip lift performed in our clinic utilizes the subnasal or "bullhorn" approach. Dr. Lapuerta makes a small incision hidden carefully inside the natural creases beneath the nostrils and the base of the nose. Through this incision, a measured, contoured strip of skin and tissue is removed.
The critical step involves deep suturing. Dr. Lapuerta anchors the underlying tissue to the strong ligaments at the base of the nose. This supports the weight of the lip and prevents tension from pulling the nostrils downward. The outer skin is then closed with ultra-fine sutures. Because it is a highly localized operation, this simple procedure is frequently performed under local anesthesia in our accredited facility.
A lip lift integrates seamlessly with other cosmetic procedures. Facial aging rarely occurs in isolation. Dr. Lapuerta offers a full range of services for patients in the Houston area.
While some patients visit our clinic for body contouring—utilizing liposuction to remove excess fat from the torso or thighs—facial rejuvenation requires a distinct, delicate approach. A lip lift is frequently performed alongside a facelift or a neck lift. Correcting sagging skin on the neck and jawline while leaving an elongated upper lip creates a visual mismatch. Addressing the mouth, skin, and underlying structural tissue together provides patients with comprehensive, long-lasting refinement. We evaluate your entire facial structure to ensure your aesthetic goals are met.
Understanding the recovery process helps you plan your schedule effectively.
In the first few days following the procedure, expect the upper lip to look swollen and slightly over-exaggerated. The tissue will feel tight when you attempt to speak or smile. Most patients report minor discomfort rather than acute pain. We provide specific instructions and pain medication to manage any soreness.
During the initial week, you must avoid strenuous physical activity. Raising your blood pressure increases swelling and delays the healing process. Your incision requires gentle, specific care to ensure a clean outcome. As the swollen tissue settles, the lip begins to relax into its intended position. Sutures are typically removed within five to seven days, at which point most patients feel comfortable returning to normal social routines with a little makeup.
You will see the initial shape immediately after surgery, but you must be patient. It takes several months to see the final look. The swelling resolves completely, and the incision line fades from pink to a pale, barely visible mark hidden in the shadow of the nose.
The final result is a highly defined cupid's bow and a mouth that looks full and youthful. You achieve the appearance of volume because your own pink tissue is rolled outward permanently.
Surgical procedures on the center of the face demand a high level of expertise. Not all surgeons possess the specific training required for precise facial architecture.
Dr. Leo Lapuerta is a board-certified plastic surgeon with over three decades of operative experience. He understands the complex mechanics of the facial muscles, skin, and underlying ligaments. Our practice is dedicated to providing patients in Piney Point and the greater Houston area with exact, reliable outcomes in a strictly private setting.
We do not believe your care ends when the surgery concludes. Dr. Lapuerta remains directly involved in your aftercare, ensuring your recovery is smooth and your final results align with your expectations.
If you want to restore balance to your lower face and eliminate the need for constant injections, contact Dr. Lapuerta to discuss your options. We provide expert, confidential care for our patients. If you are searching for the most precise facial surgery in Houston today, our clinic is ready to assist you.
Call our office or contact us online to schedule your consultation and learn how an upper lip lift can refine your appearance.
No. For most patients, a lip lift is performed using local anesthesia. You remain comfortable and numb throughout the surgery. If you combine the lip lift with a facelift, general anesthesia will be used.
The incision is placed directly in the natural creases beneath the nose. While it appears pink for the first few weeks, it fades significantly over time and becomes very difficult to detect.
Yes. A lip lift alters the shape and position of the lip, but it does not add actual mass. Some patients choose to add a very conservative amount of filler months later to enhance hydration and surface plumpness.
If your upper lip rolls inward, your philtrum is long, and your upper teeth are hidden, filler will likely create a projected, unnatural appearance. Surgery is the correct choice to shorten the skin.
The excision removes a small portion of skin above the lip, eliminating some lines located directly near the nose. It is not a complete treatment for all wrinkles. Skin resurfacing provides better texture correction.
