What Is a Lip Lift?
A lip lift is a surgical procedure that shortens the philtrum. The area of skin between the base of the nose and the upper lip’s vermilion border. By removing a carefully measured strip of skin just beneath the nostrils, the upper lip is gently elevated, revealing more of the pink lip tissue.
The result is a fuller upper lip, more visible teeth at rest, and a more youthful facial ratio, all without the overfilled or artificial appearance that fillers can sometimes produce.
Dr. Butler performs the subnasal lip lift, with an incision placed at the base of the nose. This placement helps conceal the scar within natural contours, though visible scarring remains possible.
A Word from Dr. Butler
"Every lip lift I perform is as individual as the patient in front of me. The goal is never a look, it’s the best version of you."
The lip lift is one of the most impactful yet understated procedures in facial plastic surgery. Unlike lip fillers, which add volume, a lip lift surgically repositions the upper lip, shortening the space between the base of the nose and the lip border to reveal more of the pink tissue and create a naturally youthful appearance.
As a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon based in Santa Monica, Dr. Butler tailors the technique to complement each patient’s facial anatomy.
Are You a Candidate for a Lip Lift in Los Angeles?
A lip lift may be right for you if you identify with one or more of the following:
- A Long Philtrum. You notice the space between your nose and upper lip looks elongated, which can occur naturally or as a result of aging.
- A Thin Upper Lip. You have a naturally thin upper lip that shows little pink tissue at rest, and you desire more definition without excessive volume.
- Filler Fatigue. You’ve been relying on lip fillers to achieve your desired look and are ready for a permanent, more refined solution.
- Age-Related Changes. Volume loss and skin laxity have caused your upper lip to thin or elongate over time, altering your facial harmony.
- Downturned Corners: Tell Dr. Butler if the corners of your mouth are a concern. A subnasal lip lift alone may not address them, and a separate approach may be needed.
- Good Overall Health. You are a non-smoker in good general health, with realistic expectations and a desire for natural, lasting improvement.
What to Expect After Surgery
Recovery varies. The following is a general guide; follow the instructions provided by Dr. Butler’s team.
24 Hours: Rest and monitoring at home. Keep your head elevated and avoid strenuous activity.
Days 3–5: Swelling and bruising are at their peak, then begin to improve. Most patients feel well enough to work from home during this period.
Days 5–7: Sutures are removed at our office. You’ll notice an immediate improvement in comfort and appearance.
Days 7–10: Most patients feel comfortable resuming social activities and returning to work in person.
4–6 Weeks and Beyond: Swelling continues to settle and the scar gradually matures. Optimal results may take several months, and scars continue to change during healing.
Long-Lasting Results
A lip lift makes a lasting change to the position and proportion of the upper lip. Natural aging continues, and results and the need for future treatment vary.
Potential benefits include:
- More visible upper lip tissue and definition
- A shorter, more proportionate philtrum
- Greater tooth show at rest for a more youthful smile
- Enhanced cupid’s bow curvature
- An incision placed within natural contours to help conceal the scar
- Reduced reliance on filler when the main concern is lip length rather than volume
Frequently Asked Questions About Lip Lifts in Los Angeles
Will the scar be visible?
The incision sits along the base of the nose to help conceal it. Scars can fade over time, but noticeable scarring is possible.
How is a lip lift different from lip fillers?
Fillers add temporary volume. A lip lift surgically shortens the philtrum and elevates the upper lip. These treatments address different concerns.
Can a lip lift be combined with other procedures?
Yes. Many patients combine a lip lift with complementary procedures such as rhinoplasty, facelift, or chin augmentation to achieve comprehensive facial harmony. Dr. Butler will discuss the safest and most effective combination approach during your consultation.
Is the procedure painful?
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you will not feel pain during surgery. Post-operative discomfort is typically mild and well-managed with prescribed medication. Most patients describe their recovery as comfortable and manageable.
When will I see my final results?
Early swelling often improves over the first few weeks. Optimal results may take several months, and scar maturation continues beyond the initial recovery.
How much does a lip lift cost in Los Angeles?
The cost varies depending on individual anatomy, complexity, and any combination procedures. During your consultation, Dr. Butler’s team will provide a detailed, transparent cost breakdown. Financing options are available.
Schedule Your Lip Lift Consultation
Contact our Santa Monica office to schedule a private consultation and discuss whether a lip lift suits your goals.
Plan Your Consultation
Contact our Santa Monica team to discuss your goals and next steps.
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2001 Santa Monica Blvd, Suite 890W
Santa Monica, CA 90404
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(310) 428-0033