About the Upper Lip Lift Technique

An upper lip lift is a surgical procedure that reshapes the upper lip by reducing the length of skin between the base of the nose and the lip border. This adjustment improves proportions and enhances lip aesthetics. An upper lip lift may address:

  • A long upper lip that hides teeth when smiling

  • Age-related elongation of the philtrum (space between nose and lip)

  • Desire for increased lip show without fillers

  • Flattened or thin-appearing lips

  • Lip imbalance following weight loss or aging

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Choose Criswell & Criswell Plastic Surgery & Medspa in Charlotte, NC for Upper Lip Lift

Patients trust Criswell & Criswell Plastic Surgery & Medspa for their commitment to safe, natural-looking results. Dr. Kara Criswell and Dr. Bryan Criswell bring double board-certification and extensive experience to every procedure, blending technical mastery with a personalized, boutique-level patient experience.

Highly trained RN injectors and estheticians complement surgical care with advanced non-surgical options, ensuring patients receive comprehensive treatment tailored to their goals. Patients benefit from a supportive environment where safety, artistry, and trust are prioritized.

If only 6 stars were possible!!!! I have had plastic surgery before and they were good experiences. However, the service and RESULTS from Criswell & Criswell Plastic Surgery & Medspa were truly amazing. Dr. Bryan Criswell was everything you would want in a plastic surgeon. He listened to what I had to say and was very honest about what he could do and most importantly about what I could expect from the surgery. I was overjoyed by the results. Everyone from the office staff to the nurses were very attentive throughout the entire pre- and post-surgery process. I never once regretted my decision. Dr. Criswell and team are simply awesome and I can't recommend them enough.

M.B.

Benefits of an Upper Lip Lift

Beyond creating a youthful lip shape, an upper lip lift improves facial harmony by balancing the proportions between the nose, lips, and chin. This subtle enhancement can dramatically improve self-confidence. Advantages include:

  • Shortened distance between nose and lip
  • More youthful, defined lip shape
  • Greater visibility of upper teeth when smiling
  • A natural boost in lip volume without fillers
  • Long-lasting enhancement of facial proportions
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Who is a Candidate?

The best candidates are healthy, non-smoking individuals who are unhappy with the length or appearance of their upper lip. During consultation, your surgeon will evaluate your anatomy and discuss whether this procedure, or a combination with other treatments, is best for your desired aesthetic results.

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What to Expect During Surgery

The procedure is customized to each patient. Your surgeon will design the incision and surgical approach to ensure discreet results and a natural look. Typical steps include:

  1. Local anesthesia or sedation is administered.
  2. A carefully shaped incision is made at the base of the nose.
  3. A small strip of skin is removed to shorten the upper lip.
  4. The incision is closed with fine sutures for minimal scarring.
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Healing and Final Results

Most patients experience mild swelling and bruising during the first week. Sutures are removed within a week, and most individuals resume social activities in 7 to 10 days. Final results reveal a rejuvenated, naturally fuller lip that improves overall facial proportions.

Different Types of Lip Lifts

  • Subnasal bullhorn lift: Removes skin under the nose for a balanced lift.

  • Italian lip lift: Two smaller incisions under the nostrils for a subtle change.

  • Corner lip lift: Elevates drooping corners of the mouth.

  • Central lip lift: Focuses directly on shortening the philtrum.

Complementary or Alternative Procedures

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Frequently Asked Questions Upper Lip Lift

Will the scar be visible?

The incision is hidden at the base of the nose, and with proper healing, scars are discreet and fade over time.

How long does recovery take?

Most patients feel comfortable in public within 7 to 10 days, with final results visible in a few weeks.

Can a lip lift replace fillers?

Yes. For many patients, a lip lift provides long-lasting results without repeated filler treatments.

Are the results permanent?

Yes. While aging continues, the improvements from a lip lift are considered permanent.

What are the risks?

Risks include scarring, infection, or asymmetry, which are minimized under expert surgical care.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

If you are ready to enhance your smile and restore balance to your facial proportions, schedule a consultation at Criswell & Criswell Plastic Surgery & Medspa. Discover how an upper lip lift can create lasting, natural-looking results.

Get Started with Us Today

Begin your transformation with confidence, care, and expertise.

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