What It Is
A lip lift (subnasal lip lift) is a cosmetic surgical procedure that shortens the distance between the upper lip and the base of the nose (the philtrum). By removing a small strip of skin just beneath the nose in a bullhorn- or crescent-shaped incision, the upper lip is lifted, exposing more of the vermilion (red part of the lip) and creating a fuller, youthful appearance.
In Korea, lip lifts are increasingly popular, especially among patients seeking a more balanced profile, improved lip-to-tooth ratio when smiling, and natural enhancement without fillers. Korean surgeons are highly skilled in performing this subtle but transformative procedure, focusing on minimal scarring and harmonious results.
Why It’s Done
Cosmetic Goals:
- Shortens a long philtrum for better facial proportions
- Enhances lip fullness by everting the upper lip
- Improves the visibility of upper teeth when smiling
- Creates a more youthful and refreshed appearance
Patient Considerations:
- Ideal for patients with a long distance between the nose and upper lip
- Common among older patients experiencing lip elongation with age
- Younger patients may choose it as an alternative to fillers for natural volume
- Best suited for healthy, non-smoking individuals with realistic expectations
Alternatives
- Dermal Fillers: Add temporary volume to the lips but do not shorten the philtrum
- Lip Augmentation with Fat Grafting: Natural enhancement, but volume retention varies
- Corner Lip Lift: Specifically elevates downturned corners of the mouth
- Upper Lip Advancement: A different technique, with incisions made along the lip border
Preparation
Patients preparing for a subnasal lip lift in Korea typically undergo:
- Consultation: Facial evaluation, photos, and discussion of goals
- Health Check: Bloodwork and medical history review
- Pre-Operative Instructions: Stop smoking, alcohol, and blood-thinning medications prior to surgery
- Fasting: Usually not required if performed under local anesthesia, though fasting may be necessary if general anesthesia is used in combined procedures
How It’s Done
Type: Surgical, performed under local anesthesia (sometimes sedation)
Duration: 45 minutes – 1 hour
Procedure Steps:
- Marking of the incision beneath the nose, often in a bullhorn or crescent shape
- Removal of a thin strip of skin beneath the nasal base
- Lifting and suturing the skin to shorten the philtrum and evert the upper lip
- Fine sutures placed to minimize scarring
Hospitalization: Outpatient procedure; patients return home the same day
Recovery
- First Week: Swelling, mild bruising, and tightness around the upper lip
- Pain Management: Usually mild; controlled with oral medication
- Stitches: Typically removed within 5–7 days (if non-dissolvable)
- Downtime: Patients resume normal activities within 5–7 days; full healing in 2–3 weeks
- Scarring: Well-hidden at the base of the nose and fades significantly over time
- Final Results: Stable appearance within 1–3 months
Possible Complications
- Swelling and bruising (normal during early recovery)
- Mild asymmetry if healing differs between sides
- Hypertrophic scarring (rare, minimized by fine suturing and proper aftercare)
- Overcorrection or undercorrection (avoided with precise pre-op planning)
- Temporary numbness or tightness in the upper lip
Treatment Options in Korea
Diagnosis
Korean clinics emphasize precision in diagnosis through:
- Facial Proportion Analysis to measure philtrum length and lip balance
- Digital Simulations to preview expected results
- Surgeon Consultations to ensure aesthetic harmony with the nose and chin
Medical Treatments
For patients not ready for surgery:
- Lip fillers for temporary fullness
- Fat grafting for semi-permanent enhancement
- Laser or skin tightening treatments for mild philtrum shortening effects
Surgical or Advanced Therapies
- Subnasal Lip Lift (Bullhorn Technique): The most common approach, performed under the nose
- Corner Lip Lift: Elevates drooping corners for a more youthful smile
- Combined Procedures: Lip lift often paired with rhinoplasty, face lift, or lip augmentation for balanced results
Rehabilitation and Support
- Regular follow-ups for suture removal and scar assessment
- Scar management therapies such as silicone gel or laser offered in many Korean clinics
- International patient services: multilingual support, airport transfers, and recovery assistance
