Dr. Karina Medical & Aesthetic Center

central lip lift


Central lip lift, or central lip lift surgery, is one of the modern aesthetic procedures aimed at shortening the distance between the upper lip and the nose, enhancing lip prominence, and rejuvenating the lower half of the face. This surgery involves removing a small section of skin beneath the nose and lifting the lip, which makes the upper lip line more visible and gives the face a younger, more balanced appearance.

To receive specialized consultation and book an appointment, you can submit your request by completing the consultation form.

Main Goals of Central Lip Lift

Central lip lift surgery does not merely create a small change in appearance; its impact on the overall harmony of the face is significant. The primary goals of this procedure include:

Natural Enhancement of Lip Volume: By shortening the distance between the nose and lip, the upper lip becomes more prominent, making the lips appear fuller and more voluminous without the need for gel or fat injections. This natural volumization is one of the key advantages of the central lip lift.

Reduction of Nose-to-Lip Distance: An excessive distance between the lip and nose is one of the factors that can make the face appear older. Shortening this distance establishes better balance among facial features, resulting in a more youthful appearance.

Improvement of Lip Symmetry: Many individuals have natural asymmetry in their lips. Central lip lift surgery can correct this imbalance, making the lips more symmetrical.

Rejuvenation Around the Mouth: As the lips are lifted, wrinkles around the mouth become less visible, and the overall smile appears more beautiful.

Who Are Ideal Candidates for Central Lip Lift?

This surgery is not suitable for everyone, and specific conditions must be considered. The best candidates for central lip lift are those who:

  • Have a large distance between the lip and nose.
  • Have thin lips and are dissatisfied with temporary injections.
    Seek permanent and natural results.
  • Have good general health and do not smoke.
  • Have realistic expectations about the surgical outcomes.

Conversely, individuals with uncontrolled conditions such as diabetes or blood clotting disorders may not be suitable candidates.

Preparations Before Central Lip Lift Surgery

To ensure the best possible results from central lip lift surgery, patients should follow certain recommendations prior to the procedure:

Quit smoking and tobacco use at least two weeks before surgery.
Avoid blood-thinning medications such as aspirin or ibuprofen.
Follow a light diet the night before the surgery.
Coordinate with the surgeon to review medical history and allergies.

Central Lip Lift Procedure

This is a relatively simple and minimally invasive surgery, typically performed under local anesthesia, although light sedation may be used in some cases. The general process is as follows:

Incision Under the Nose: The surgeon makes a small, precise incision just below the nose. This incision is often designed in a “bullhorn” shape to achieve more natural results.

Removal of Excess Skin: A small portion of skin between the lip and nose is removed. The exact amount is determined based on each individual’s facial anatomy and desired outcome.

Lifting the Upper Lip: With fine and precise sutures, the skin is pulled upward to make the upper lip appear shorter and more prominent.

Suturing: The sutures are typically placed in a way that they dissolve over time, leaving no visible scar or making it extremely subtle.

Due to its high precision and limited incisions, this surgical method is considered one of the safest lip enhancement procedures.

If you’re ready to make a lasting change to your smile and facial appearance, you can book a central lip lift consultation appointment right now.

Recovery Period and Post-Operative Care for Central Lip Lift

One of the key aspects of central lip lift is the recovery period. Proper care directly impacts the final results, so patients must pay close attention.

  • First Few Days After Surgery: Mild swelling and bruising around the lips is normal and gradually subsides over time.
  • Daily Activities: Most patients can return to normal life within a few days. However, they should avoid strenuous and heavy activities for two weeks.
  • Sensations in the Lips: Due to temporary Botox use in the upper lip muscle, lip movements may feel slightly unusual in the initial days, but this resolves over time.
  • Hygiene Care: Proper cleaning of the suture site, avoiding manipulation of the lips, and using prescribed medications accelerate the healing process.

When Are the Final Results of Central Lip Lift Visible?

Initial results are usually noticeable after swelling subsides and wounds heal in the first few weeks. However, the final results become evident when:

  • Swelling has completely resolved (about 6 to 8 weeks later).
  • Internal lip and nose tissues return to their natural state.
  • Suture marks fade and become nearly invisible.

Therefore, it’s best to wait at least two months to fully assess the beauty and symmetry of the lips. Many patients report that over time, the lips appear more natural and harmonious with other facial features.

Advantages of Central Lip Lift Surgery

Compared to other lip enhancement methods, this procedure offers significant benefits:

  • Permanent Results: Unlike gel or filler injections that require renewal, central lip lift is long-lasting.
    Natural Lip
  • Appearance: The outcome makes the lips look natural and balanced with other facial features.
    Overall Facial
  • Rejuvenation: A small change can make the face appear younger and more vibrant.
    Combination with
  • Other Surgeries: It can be performed alongside blepharoplasty or facelift for more comprehensive results.

Potential Complications and Risks

Although central lip lift is considered a light and low-risk surgery, potential complications exist, and patients should be aware:

  • Infection or Bleeding: Very rare and usually controlled with proper hygiene and prescribed medications.
  • Lip Asymmetry: Possible if not performed by an experienced surgeon.
    Temporary Loss of Lip
  • Sensation: Usually temporary and resolves within a few weeks.
  • Scar Formation: Although incisions are hidden under the nose, improper care may lead to noticeable scars.

Cost of Central Lip Lift Surgery

The cost of central lip lift surgery varies based on several factors:

  • Surgeon’s Experience and Skill: More experienced surgeons charge higher fees, but the quality of results is superior.
  • Location of the Procedure: Reputable clinics with advanced equipment typically have higher costs.
  • Patient’s Condition: In some cases, unique lip features or additional corrections may extend surgery time, increasing costs.

The key point is not to choose a surgeon solely based on price, as this surgery directly affects beauty and self-confidence—prioritize result quality.

For exact cost inquiries and consultation booking, contact us.

Differences Between Central Lip Lift and Non-Surgical Methods

Many people hesitate between central lip lift and non-surgical options like filler injections. A general comparison shows:

Longevity: Central lip lift is permanent, while fillers are temporary and need renewal every 6 to 12 months.

Natural Results: Surgical central lip lift creates a more natural look, whereas repeated injections may make lips appear artificial.

Long-Term Cost: Initial central lip lift may cost more, but it’s more cost-effective than ongoing filler renewals.

Combining Central Lip Lift with Complementary Methods

Many patients prefer to combine central lip lift with other aesthetic procedures for more dramatic results:

Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery): For rejuvenating the eye area.
Facelift: To eliminate sagging skin on the face and neck.
PRP Injections or Light Therapy: To improve skin quality and boost collagen production.
Filler or Fat Injections: For additional volume in the lips or other facial areas.

For more information on our other services such as abdominoplasty, 360 liposuction, or breast implants, visit the relevant pages or contact us.

Final Word

Central lip lift is an excellent option for those seeking more prominent, beautiful, and proportionate lips. With small but effective changes, it can rejuvenate and enhance facial attractiveness. The most important factors for optimal results are selecting a specialist surgeon and fully adhering to post-operative care.

To book a consultation, learn about costs, and understand procedure details for central lip lift, complete the consultation form now. Our team is ready to guide you toward the best outcomes

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Answers to Your Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

A lip lift is a permanent procedure, unlike lip fillers which only last about one year.

A lip lift is typically performed under local anesthesia, so the procedure itself is usually not painful. After surgery, you may experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising, but these side effects are generally mild.

A lip lift leaves a small, thin scar at the incision site. The extent of scarring depends on skin type, individual genetics, and post-operative care. Scars are more noticeable in areas with tissue movement compared to static areas. Due to lip movement, scarring can occur. With proper care, the scar should fade over time and become nearly invisible. Some individuals may require laser treatment to eliminate scarring.

You can usually return to work a few days after surgery, but it may take a few weeks for swelling to fully subside. Sutures are removed 7-10 days post-op, or in cases of absorbable sutures, they dissolve on their own.

The amount of skin between the nose and upper lip is the most important factor.

You should avoid certain medications and supplements before and after surgery, including aspirin, NSAIDs, anti-inflammatory drugs, blood thinners, and herbal medications.
Two weeks before surgery, avoid medications containing aspirin or blood thinners, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as diclofenac and ibuprofen.
Please consult your doctor regarding whether and when to stop any medications. Also avoid vitamin E supplements and red wine. Discontinue all herbal medications before surgery. Common herbs include echinacea, ephedra, garlic, saffron, ginseng, ginkgo, kava, milk thistle, and valerian. They may negatively affect anesthesia drugs, prolong bleeding, and disrupt post-surgical recovery.

Tobacco use significantly increases the risk of complications and should be quit or at least reduced before any surgery.

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