What we can improve.
Cheiloplasty is a broad term. It can refer to lip reduction, reshaping or tissue repair. It should not be confused with a lip lift, which shortens the skin between the nose and upper lip.
We examine the lining, border, corners of the mouth and relationship between the two lips. If you have had fillers, knowing the material and date is important: persistent swelling or enlargement after injections needs a diagnosis before reduction surgery is considered.
Options and scars.
A reduction removes tissue through incisions usually placed on the inside of the lip. The design aims to adjust volume while preserving comfortable closure and a balanced shape. One or both lips may be treated, depending on the case.
Asymmetry or the effects of scarring need their own plan. If filler material is present, removal may be incomplete or need stages. Where the issue is lack of volume or the length of skin above the lip, other options are assessed.
What recovery involves.
The first few days
Swelling can be pronounced during the first few days and does not represent the final size. We will advise on comfortable food, oral hygiene and avoiding wound tension while speaking or eating. Internal sutures may be dissolvable, depending on the procedure.
Returning to your routine
Gentle tasks are usually resumed gradually, but allow time if your job involves extensive speaking or meeting the public. Direct contact, irritating foods and intense exercise are limited according to progress.
How the result develops
The lip gradually regains flexibility. We assess contour and sensation over the following months, once swelling allows the true proportions to be seen. New fillers should not be added during this period without assessment.
Safety and possible risks.
Conservative correction is important to preserve movement, sensation and mouth closure. Removing too much tissue can make these aims harder to achieve and later correction more complex.
Differences, a firm scar, changes in sensation or persistent discomfort may remain. Bleeding, infection and wound opening are also possible. If permanent fillers or previous operations are involved, we will explain the additional limitations and whether staged treatment is preferable.
What we will discuss.
- Which aspect of shape or volume you want to change.
- Which fillers you have used and whether you have records.
- How surgery could affect movement and lip closure.
Frequently asked questions.
Can only the lower lip be reduced?
Yes, if that is the area requiring treatment. We assess both lips and how they relate during speech and mouth closure.
Can any filler be removed?
Not in the same way. Some resorbable products may have non-surgical alternatives; permanent fillers can blend with the tissues and may not allow complete removal.
Will I see the result when the stitches come out?
Swelling and stiffness may still be present. Contour is assessed more accurately once the tissues have settled.
Keep exploring.
Revisión inicial del contenido: Dr. Luis Martín Suárez · 2026-09-13
Timeframes are a guide. The technique, suitability and aftercare are agreed during consultation according to your case and progress.