What we can improve.
We assess the length of skin beneath the nose, how much of your teeth shows at rest and when smiling, and how your lips close. We also consider the shape of the nasal base and previous fillers, which may affect measurements and movement.
Not every thin lip needs this surgery. If you already show considerable gum or the distance is short, further lifting may not suit you. The decision is based on your whole mouth and smile, rather than achieving the same measurement for every face.
Options and scars.
The most common technique removes a small strip of skin beneath the nose to raise the upper lip. The scar follows the contour of the nasal base. Planning needs to be conservative: we remove what is needed for the agreed change, taking care with nostril shape and tooth exposure.
A lip lift does not fill the lip in the same way as hyaluronic acid or your own fat. When the concern involves the corners of the mouth or an irregular lip border, different techniques are assessed. If you have had fillers, we will review the product and when it was used before planning.
What recovery involves.
The first few days
During the first few days, the area may be swollen and feel stiff when speaking or smiling. We will explain how to clean the wound, eat comfortably and avoid movements that put it under tension. External stitches are usually removed around the first week.
Returning to your routine
Although gentle activities can resume early, allow time before meetings or events because swelling is visible. Exercise and make-up over the scar should wait for review and skin closure. Avoid pressing or stretching the lip to test its movement.
How the result develops
Your expression softens as swelling decreases. The result and scar continue adapting for several months; sun protection and the recommended wound care support healing, without guaranteeing that the scar will become invisible.
Safety and possible risks.
The main safety decision is how far to lift. Excessive shortening can expose more teeth or gum than intended and affect lip closure. Measurements and assessment during movement help us choose a proportionate change.
A visible scar, differences between the sides or a change in the nasal base may remain. Bleeding, infection and changes in sensation are also possible. During reviews, we check the wound and movement to guide care or assess whether anything needs treatment.
What we will discuss.
- The length of your upper lip and how much tooth is visible.
- Your previous fillers and how they have changed.
- The scar and a reasonable degree of lifting.
Frequently asked questions.
Is it an alternative to filler?
It can be if the issue is the length of the skin above the lip, but they do not produce the same change. Filler adds volume; a lip lift changes the lip's position and how much is visible.
Will the scar show?
It sits beneath the nose and usually becomes less noticeable with time, although it can remain visible. Its position and care are part of the decision.
Can I have it if I show a lot of gum?
This needs particular caution, as lifting the lip can increase gum exposure. We will assess the cause of a gummy smile before proposing treatment.
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.