The lip lift is one of the lesser-known cosmetic surgeries in the U.S., with approximately 40,000 procedures performed each year.
Despite this, a lip lift can offer stunning aesthetic benefits for patients, helping them to achieve a far more youthful, relaxed, and pleasant facial appearance.
Here, Dr. Jose Barrera discusses the lip lift procedure in detail and helps patients considering the procedure understand how a lip lift will impact their face, smile, and the appearance of the teeth. Indeed, a lip lift performed by an expert facial plastic surgeon will help the patient to show more of their teeth when they smile, giving them a radiant, attractive glow.
What Is Lip Lift Surgery?
A lip lift surgery is a cosmetic procedure that aims to elevate and reposition the upper lip to achieve a more youthful and defined appearance.
As we age, due to biological, genetic, and environmental forces, the area between the nose and the upper lip, medically known as the philtrum, inevitably lengthens. This elongation characteristically gives the face a more aged look and reduces the visibility of the upper teeth when smiling or speaking.
Patients pursue a lip lift if they want to reduce the length of the philtrum, which subtly pulls the upper lip higher, reversing the aging process and helping patients achieve a more youthful appearance.
What Are the Benefits of Lip Lift Surgery?
Lip lift surgery is an invasive procedure; however, it is less intense than others and can deliver some outstanding results. Some of the main benefits of lip lift surgery include:
- Increased Teeth Visibility. A significant benefit of the procedure is the increased visibility of the upper teeth when speaking or smiling. This subtle change can make a person look more vibrant and expressive.
- Youthful Appearance. A lip lift can restore a more youthful look to the face. As we age, the distance between the nose and the upper lip can increase, making us appear older. By reducing this distance, one can restore a fresher and more youthful facial aesthetic.
- Permanent Results. Unlike temporary solutions, such as dermal fillers, a lip lift provides permanent changes to the lip’s positioning and shape, eliminating the need for regular touch-ups.
- Natural Results. When performed by a skilled surgeon, the results of a lip lift look very natural. The incisions, typically made beneath the nose, are also strategically placed to minimize visible scarring.
- Boosted Self-Confidence. For many patients, the enhanced appearance and rejuvenated look following their procedure can lead to increased self-esteem and confidence.
What Are the Factors That Determine Teeth Visibility After a Lip Lift?
There are several factors that will impact teeth visibility after a lip lift.
Patients and surgeons must consider the natural anatomy of the patient’s mouth, particularly the length of the philtrum and the position of the teeth. Individual healing processes and potential scar tissue formation can also affect the final appearance. Facial expressions, such as the way one naturally smiles, can impact how much of the upper teeth are visible post-surgery.
Much of what determines teeth visibility post-lip lift comes down to the surgery itself, which is why choosing a highly-experienced, well-known, reputable surgeon to perform the procedure is essential for best results.
Will a Lip Lift Surgery Make Your Teeth More Prominent When Smiling?
Yes, a lip lift surgery can make your teeth more prominent when smiling.
By elevating the position of the upper lip, a lip lift reveals more of the upper teeth, which, in turn, helps patients achieve a more youthful appearance, as younger individuals naturally display more of their upper teeth when they smile.
Is There a Non-Surgical Alternative to a Lip Lift?
Yes, there are non-surgical alternatives to lip lifts.
Dermal fillers are the most popular non-surgical alternative. These are injected into the lips and surrounding areas to provide a plumper, lifted appearance, by enhancing the lip’s volume and reducing the distance between the nose and lip.
Moreover, Botox or Dysport injections above the upper lip can cause a subtle “lip flip,” giving a temporarily lifted look.
If you’re looking for a non-surgical alternative to a lip lift, Dr. Barrera offers a specially designed non-surgical alternative procedure that combines both dermal fillers and other injectables to achieve stunning results.
Why Should I Choose a Highly Qualified Facial Plastic Surgeon?
Choosing a highly qualified facial plastic surgeon ensures your procedure is performed with expertise and precision. These surgeons have undergone specialized training, focusing solely on facial aesthetics and reconstruction techniques. Their in-depth understanding of facial anatomy, combined with their surgical skills, provide optimal results while minimizing risks.
As mentioned above, much of the direct results from a lip lift come from how well the surgery itself is performed, which makes choosing a highly qualified plastic surgeon all the more important.
Lip Lift Surgery in San Antonio, TX
If you or a loved one is considering lip lift surgery, then having a non-committal discussion with a compassionate industry expert, such as Dr. Barrera, is the best thing you can do.
A lot goes into deciding whether or not to commit to a cosmetic procedure, and discussing one’s concerns and desires with a knowledgeable expert is the best way to get a clear insight into the potential benefits and limitations any procedure might have for the patient.
Dr. Barrera prides himself on his patient satisfaction and the personalized, caring approach he takes when working with each and every patient to achieve their own unique goals. Simply call (210) 468-5426 or complete Dr. Barreras’ online form to discuss how we can improve your smile today.
