Quatela Center for Plastic Surgery
973 East Avenue
Rochester, NY 14607
Phone: (585) 244-1000
Fax: (585) 271-4786
Monday–Friday: 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m.
Lip Lift
Is a Lip Lift Better Than Filler?
Injectable fillers may be the appropriate choice for patients who are looking to add volume to the lips. Lip filler is a nonsurgical, in-office procedure that adds volume to thin lips. However, for patients with naturally thin or aging lips, a surgical lip lift may be the best procedure to achieve their goals.
Ideal Lip Lift Candidates
The ideal lip lift candidate is someone who:
- Is in overall good health
- Wants a cosmetic improvement of the appearance of their lips
- Has an upper lip that has begun to sag or droop with age
- Has realistic goals and expectations about the results
The first step in deciding if you are a good candidate for a lip lift is meeting with one of our facial plastic surgeons for a private, personal consultation appointment.
Your Lip Lift Consultation
During your consultation, your facial plastic surgeon reviews your health history and listens to you describe your primary aesthetic concerns. Additionally, your lip and nose area will be carefully examined to assess your bone structure, skin elasticity, and personal characteristics and concerns. The consultation is an important opportunity to discuss your short- and long-term cosmetic goals and ask questions about your treatment options. Your surgeon will explain the lip lift procedure, what you can expect during recovery, and potential complications.
The consultation is a good time to establish a rapport with the doctor and ensure you’re comfortable with the practice. Based on the consultation, your surgeon will create a personalized treatment plan designed around your needs and lifestyle.
Dr. Vito C. Quatela is a double board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon with over 30 years of experience performing facial rejuvenation procedures. Dr. Quatela is a past president of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and is highly respected by his peers as a recognized expert in all areas of facial plastic surgery, including rhinoplasty, facelift, and other facial procedures.
Dr. Heather Lee is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon and otolaryngologist who has trained extensively with Dr. Quatela. She specializes in both aesthetic and functional procedures and is known for her meticulous surgical results and compassionate care.
Dr. Alex Montague is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon and otolaryngologist who trained under Dr. Quatela for a facial plastic and reconstructive surgery fellowship. He has exemplary skills in both technique and patient care and specializes in aesthetic and functional procedures.
Your Lip Lift Procedure
The lip lift procedure is done in the operating room and can be performed on its own or with additional procedures such as rhinoplasty or a facelift. The procedure takes about an hour.
While a few different techniques are used for lip lifts, our facial plastic surgeons prefer the sub-nasal lip lift, which removes a strip of skin just beneath the nose. This allows the small incision to be hidden in the crease of the nose to reduce visible scarring.
Recovery After a Lip Lift
Recovery after a lip lift is fairly minimal without extensive downtime. Some minimal discomfort may occur, which can be treated with prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication. Bruising, swelling, and numbness are normal for the first few weeks and will subside as the area heals. Most patients return to work after a few days, and exercise is restricted for 2 weeks following the procedure. Final results can be appreciated within approximately 3 to 6 months.
Following your surgeon’s specific post-operative instructions is essential for a successful recovery. Do not hesitate to contact our office if any questions or concerns arise during your recovery.
As a destination practice offering world-class care, the Quatela Center attracts patients from around the globe. Our virtual consultations and support program take the effort out of travelling for surgery.
Lip Lift FAQ
What is a lip lift?
A lip lift is a simple surgical procedure that elevates the upper lip. It is done either to shorten the distance of an overly long upper lip or to increase the amount of “red show” for a lip that is naturally very thin.
What are the benefits of a lip lift?
As we age, the upper lip tends to stretch and lengthen with gravity. This usually results in the red part of the lip rolling inward—giving the appearance of thinning—and falling downward to cover the upper teeth, making the mouth appear older. The benefit of elevating the upper lip is a lifted and more rejuvenated appearance.
What techniques are used for a lip lift?
Several techniques have been used to perform a lip lift. At the Quatela Center, our facial plastic surgeons use the sub-nasal technique, which places the incision just under your nose, concealing the scar. A small strip of skin is removed, and the area is carefully closed with sutures.
Who is a good candidate for a lip lift?
You may be a good candidate for a lip lift if you feel the distance between your nose and top lip is too long or that the upper lip is too thin.
How long does a lip lift last?
The results of a surgical lip lift are permanent; however, your lips and overall face will continue to age and change.
People who live in Buffalo, Syracuse, and other areas of New York travel to the Quatela Center for Plastic Surgery for lip lift surgery and other facial rejuvenation procedures. Request your consultation using the online form to meet personally with one of our facial plastic surgeons or give our office a call at (585) 244-1000 to schedule an appointment.
The Quatela Center for Plastic Surgery in Rochester is proud to serve patients from throughout Upstate NY. We are honored to be the area’s premier plastic surgery center, and give every patient our undivided attention and the quality of care they deserve. Learn more about how we support our New York patients on their surgical journeys: