Lip lift Perth
Lip lift (subnasal cheiloplasty): procedure, who it may suit and recovery
An upper lip lift (or subnasal cheiloplasty) is surgery to alter the height and shape of the upper lip. For some people, it can increase how much of the upper lip shows when the face is at rest. Results vary, and a consultation is needed to check if it’s suitable for you.
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What is a lip lift and who is it for?
A lip lift is a short surgical procedure that changes the position and shape of the upper lip. It is not the same as lip filler. Instead of adding volume, this surgery reduces the space between the nose and the top of the lip, helping more of the pink part of your lip show. That can create a fuller appearance without the need for injectables.
A lip lift may be right for you if:
- Your upper lip disappears when you smile
- You feel the area between your nose and lip has become too long with age
- Lip fillers haven’t given you the result you want
- You’re looking for a more permanent and subtle improvement
Unlike lip fillers, which wear off over time, a lip lift gives a lasting result. It may also improve the shape and definition of the upper lip without changing your overall expression.
What type of lip lift is right for you?
There’s more than one way to perform a lip lift. In your consultation, Dr Tuan Pham will look at things like your lip length, how your smile sits, your overall facial shape, and your skin, then talk you through what approach may suit you.
Subnasal (bullhorn) lip lift
This is the most common technique. A small strip of skin is removed from under the nose. The incision follows the natural curve of the nostrils, making it nearly invisible once healed.
Subnasal lip lift is best for:
- shortening the upper lip
- increasing tooth show when smiling
- creating a more youthful look
Corner lip lift
Targets the outer corners of the lips. It gently lifts downturned corners to create a more refreshed and open expression.
Corner lip lift is best for:
- improving overall lip balance
- adjusting the smile line
- usually performed with bullhorn lip lift
Lip lift surgery Perth
What happens during a lip lift procedure?
Lip lift surgery is a day procedure that takes less than one hour. It’s usually performed under local anaesthesia with or without light sedation. General anaesthetic will be required if performed in conjunction with another procedure, such as a facelift.
Here’s what to expect:
- The incision is made beneath the nose (for subnasal lifts) or at the lip corners (for corner lip lifts)
- A small strip of skin is removed
- The upper lip is gently lifted and stitched into place using fine sutures
- You’ll go home the same day with aftercare instructions
What is recovery like after a lip lift?
Lip lift recovery is generally smooth, with minimal downtime. Most patients return to light activity within a few days.
- Swelling and mild tightness
- Pain is usually described as mild to moderate
- Ice packs and pain relief help manage early symptoms
- Stitches removed around day seven
- Swelling begins to ease
- Bruising, if any, can often be covered with light makeup
- Lip movement feels more normal
- Scar begins to fade
- Final shape starts to settle
- Full results visible
- Scar continues to soften and become barely noticeable
FAQ: Will there be a scar after a lip lift?
Yes, but in most cases it’s extremely discreet. The incision is placed within the crease under the nose or at the corners of the mouth, depending on the technique used. With proper care, the scar fades over time and becomes hard to detect. We’ll provide advice on scar care, including silicone gel, sun protection, and optional treatments if needed.
Lip lift Perth consultation
Should you choose a lip lift or lip filler?
It depends on your goals and what’s suitable for you. There are non-surgical options that may provide a temporary change, and surgical options such as an upper lip lift (subnasal cheiloplasty), which repositions the upper lip and is intended to be longer-lasting. A consultation is needed to discuss suitability, risks, and the likely outcome for you.
Lip filler:
- Adds volume
- Temporary (lasts 6–12 months)
- Can blur lip lines and add definition
Lip lift:
- Shortens the space between the nose and upper lip, and lifts the upper lip
- Permanent
- Enhances lip shape without adding bulk
In some cases, a lip lift can be combined with a small amount of filler later for extra refinement.
You may be a good candidate if:
- Your upper lip looks long, flat, or lacks definition
- You’re seeking more tooth show when you smile
- You want a long-term alternative to lip filler
- You are in good health and have realistic expectations
During your consultation, Dr Tuan Pham will assess your suitability and talk through the risks, such as prolonged swelling, scar visibility, or minor asymmetry. These are uncommon but always worth discussing in advance.
Lip lift Perth surgeon
Perth Facial Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery
Our Subiaco clinic is fully focused on facial surgery. Dr Tuan Pham is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons, with over 25 years of experience in cosmetic and reconstructive facial surgery. His work includes rhinoplasty, facelift, skin cancer reconstruction, and other advanced procedures where precision and aesthetics go hand in hand.
Lip lift procedures are performed in fully accredited hospital theatres, including Hollywood Private Hospital, Subiaco Private Hospital, and South Perth Hospital.
To learn more about lip lift surgery in Perth or to book your consultation with Dr Tuan Pham, please get in touch.