Lip Lift Surgery

Certainly non nicotine-users (smokers/vapers/gums etc). You may be suitable if you have a long philtrum, thin or flattened upper lip, unsatisfactory filler results, or want a permanent solution. Dr Cotrufo will assess your suitability during a detailed consultation.

Performed under local anaesthetic or twilight, a 3-5mm strip of skin is removed below the nose, and the lip is elevated. The incision is closed with fine sutures in layers “following the folds of the nostrils line: the healing begins immediately and is described as “not uncomfortable at all”. The procedure lasts around 60–75 minutes.

Most swelling and bruising subside within two weeks. Sutures are removed after 5–7 days. Patients return to social activity in 7–14 days, and scars fade significantly over 2-4 months.

Dr Cotrufo discusses all risks with you, including temporary numbness, minor scarring, asymmetry, or over/undercorrection. These risks are rare and minimised through expert technique (pre-operative measurements, high magnification and thorough execution) and, as ever, careful aftercare.

The results are permanent, unlike fillers.

Incisions are discreetly hidden under the nostrils and fade well over time.

Yes, lip lift can be considered an ancillary procedure which can be  combined with any form of facial plastic surgery including facelifts, neck lifts, or fat grafting. Dr Cotrufo’s recommendation is often to start with the “central triangle” of the face, including the eyelids, midface/cheeks and lips as first stage of rejuvenation.

For permanent enhancement of the “vermilion border” and better tooth show: many patients eventually prefer surgery.

Most return to light activity or WFH within 3–5 days, and social activity in 7–14 days.