Lip lift

Lip Lift – Restoring Balance Between the Nose, Upper Lip and Smile

The mouth is a central part of facial expression. Over time, the distance between the nose and upper lip may become longer, the upper lip may appear less visible, and less of the teeth may show when smiling. This can create a heavier or more mature appearance – not necessarily because volume is lacking, but because the proportions have changed.

At AGATA, a lip lift is not about making the lips larger. It is about improving the proportions between the nose, upper lip and smile.

How is the procedure performed?

During the consultation, we assess the distance between the nose and upper lip, how visible the upper lip is, whether a small amount of additional volume or fullness may be beneficial, and whether a lip lift alone will be sufficient.

With a bullhorn lip lift, a small, precisely measured strip of skin is removed discreetly beneath the nose. The term bullhorn refers to the soft, curved shape of the incision, which follows the base of the nose and resembles a pair of horns.

The upper lip is then gently elevated. This shortens the distance between the nose and upper lip while creating a subtle outward rotation of the lip. As a result, more of the red part of the upper lip becomes visible, and tooth show when smiling may also improve.

The scar is placed discreetly beneath the nose and usually becomes gradually less noticeable over time.

The procedure is usually performed under local anaesthesia and takes approximately 1 hour.

Recovery

After surgery, some swelling, tenderness and mild bruising may occur. Initially, the upper lip may appear more pronounced than the final result.

Most patients can return to normal daily activities after a few days, while the result gradually settles into a more natural appearance over the following weeks.

Are there risks?

All surgical procedures involve some degree of risk, but the great majority of patients have an uncomplicated recovery.

Swelling, mild asymmetry and temporary changes in sensation may occur. Infection is uncommon. The scar beneath the nose gradually matures and usually becomes more discreet over time.

What can you expect from the result?

A lip lift primarily changes shape and proportions – not volume. The result is long-lasting, while the natural ageing process continues.

The aim is not to create a different mouth, but to achieve a more harmonious relationship between the nose, upper lip and smile, so that the overall expression appears lighter, more open and natural.

“Small changes around the mouth can make a meaningful difference to the balance of the entire face.”