Lip Lift
Folsom, CA
Folsom, CA
The upper lip plays a central role in the way we smile and express ourselves. Whether as a result of facial aging or genetics, the upper lip can lengthen and flatten, concealing the upper teeth and reducing definition in the Cupid’s bow. A lip lift shortens the space between the nose and lip by removing a small strip of excess skin. For the right candidate, this small enhancement in lip shape can subtly elevate the entire appearance of the face.
At Bueno MD Facial Aesthetic Surgery, every lip lift surgery is customized to highlight your natural beauty. Dr. Bueno combines advanced facial plastic surgery training with an artistic approach to create natural-looking lips that feel balanced with the rest of your facial features.
Enhances the upper lip’s shape by shortening the distance between the nose and mouth
A quick outpatient surgical procedure performed with local anesthesia
Most patients return to light activity within days
A lifelong improvement in facial balance and smile aesthetics
The lip lift has become a highly sought cosmetic surgery due to its elegant approach and subtle results. This minimally invasive lip enhancement procedure is designed to elevate the upper lip into a more youthful position. By removing a narrow strip of upper lip skin beneath the nose, a lip lift broadens the colored portion of the upper lip, creates more visible dental show, and enhances the curve of the Cupid’s bow.
Unlike lip fillers, which temporarily add volume, a lip lift reshapes the lip itself for permanent results, creating a more defined appearance while maintaining natural movement and expression.
Lip lift surgery is typically performed in under an hour using local anesthesia. A discreet incision site is created at the base of the nose, through which the surgeon removes excess skin and elevates the lip into its new position. The incision is carefully placed along natural creases, helping the lip lift scar fade over time and blend with the surrounding skin. After the procedure is completed, patients return home the same day for a brief recovery period.
The lip lift procedure can address a variety of concerns, including:
A lip lift can also be paired with other procedures like a facelift or brow lift for more complete facial rejuvenation. Dr. Bueno will work with you to develop the best plan for your needs and goals.
A lip lift creates a brighter, more expressive smile. By shortening the upper lip, patients achieve improved balance between the nose, lips, and chin. The lips gain a more defined appearance and natural contour without the need for lip fillers or ongoing treatments.
Lip lift patients enjoy natural-looking results that last a lifetime. Unlike temporary solutions, a lip lift delivers permanent refinement.
You may be a good candidate for a lip lift if you feel your upper lip is too long, hides your upper teeth when smiling, or lacks definition. The procedure is also ideal for those who want lasting results without ongoing lip filler treatments.
During your consultation, Dr. Bueno evaluates your facial features, skin, and goals to determine the best approach to achieve your desired outcome.
Recovery from a lip lift is brief. Patients can expect temporary swelling and tightness during the first few days. Keeping the head elevated helps minimize swelling and supports healing. Most patients return to work and light activity within a week. Strenuous activities will need to be avoided until cleared by Dr. Bueno, usually about four weeks after surgery.
Any mild discomfort is managed with pain medications, and the surgical site heals quickly. The incision site is well hidden in the natural crease under the nose, and the lip lift scar usually fades over a few weeks to months, becoming discreet over time. Incision sites are often treated with a laser to expedite healing as well.
Once healing is complete, patients enjoy a more defined appearance of the upper lip. The subtle lift refines the Cupid’s bow, creates the appearance of added volume in the upper lip, and improves facial proportions. The upper teeth show more easily when smiling, revealing a more youthful, vibrant expression.
The results of a lip lift are permanent, providing an elegant alternative to lip fillers. Patients frequently describe the change as empowering—small in scale, yet deeply impactful on everyday confidence.
Dr. Scott Bueno is a fellowship-trained facial surgeon specializing exclusively in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the face. With advanced training in delicate procedures like the lip lift, he combines precision with artistry to help his patients achieve natural-looking results.
At Dr. Bueno's boutique facial plastic surgery practice in Folsom, patients enjoy individualized care and a collaborative planning process. Dr. Bueno's patients trust him to deliver elegant results that enhance both their appearance and their everyday confidence.
Lip fillers temporarily add lip volume, while a lip lift reshapes the upper lip by removing excess skin above the lip to provide permanent results.
Depending on your facial anatomy and cosmetic goals, Dr. Bueno will recommend a subnasal lip lift, potentially in combination with a corner lip lift:
Yes, but the incision is hidden in natural creases. The lip lift incision line fades gradually, avoiding noticeable scarring.
A lip lift is a quick surgical procedure, usually performed in under one hour in an outpatient setting.
Most patients report mild pain or tightness at the surgical site, which is easily managed with pain medications.
Initial healing takes about a week, with temporary swelling resolving over a few weeks. Patients should avoid strenuous activities during early recovery.
Yes. Unlike fillers, a lip lift creates permanent results, though the natural aging process continues.
Patients who smoke, have unrealistic expectations, or prefer to add volume to both the upper and lower lips using fillers may not be good candidates for a lip lift. A consultation with Dr. Bueno will help you determine the best approach for your goals.
