The lips are one of the most important facial features, with many cosmetic practices focusing on the lips to create an improved, youthful appearance. The lips start to show visible signs of aging much faster than other parts of the face. For example, our lips start to show wrinkles and lines making them appear aged. Have you looked at your lips recently? Do they always seem to be turned downwards or have fallen from their plump condition? If so, these concerns can be improved with a surgical Lip Lift.
What is a Lip Lift?
A lip lift is an in-office facial plastic surgery procedure designed to reduce the space between the nose and upper lip and elevate a thin or downturned mouth. This is a simple procedure that can give you amazing results.
Lips can start to look permanently downturned or even fall away from the nose with excess skin due to loss of volume in the skin. By getting a lip lift procedure, you can have fuller-looking, elevated lips. A lip lift is an innovative procedure designed to improve the overall appearance of your mouth and rejuvenate lips that have been affected by the aging process.
For most people, the goal of a cosmetic procedure is to create a natural and youthful look. Lip lift procedures are an excellent way to improve the lips and create a natural appearance.
A lip lift can alter the appearance of the lips by:
- Adding the appearance of volume to the upper lip.
- Exposing the hidden upper teeth.
- Reversing a down-turned lip corner (corner lip lift).
- Eliminating lines caused by natural aging.
For some patients, combining a lip lift procedure with lip fillers can also help lead to further lip enhancement. To learn more about combining procedures, please feel free to ask during your consultation appointment.
Dr. Picerno and Dr. Cote are experts in the field of facial cosmetic surgery. We want you to be able to smile confidently. With this minimally invasive procedure, since it is relatively straightforward, there is very minimal scarring and downtime. The two doctors have over 45 years of combined experience, so you can trust that your surgeons at FacesFirst will provide you with natural-looking, lasting results.
Gallery
Before and After
A lip lift is commonly known for its ability to plump thin lips, but it can also be used to improve signs of aging and a downturned mouth. A lip lift can transform your smile and enhance the overall look of your lower face.
View More
*actual patient of FacesFirst Cosmetic Surgery
Choosing the Lip Lift Treatment
Dr. Picerno and Dr. Cote can determine if a lip lift would benefit you during a consultation appointment. To create a treatment plan, they will look at the 3-Ds of your face. The 3-Ds help them address the different changes in the face to create the most balanced look. These 3-D’s are:
- Dermal: Skin changes that occur due to loss of collagen and elastin, as well as sun damage or movement.
- Deflation: Lost volume that occurs in the face, causing the lips to lose definition.
- Descent: These are changes in the skin that cause the skin to sag. This is most relative to the Lip Lift since many lips start to become longer over time, causing the top lip to gradually move further away from the bottom of the nose.
Type of Lip Lift Techniques
There are various different surgical techniques that can be employed to achieve a lip lift. The surgical technique that is right for you may vary depending on factors such as your individual anatomy and desired results. These options may include:
Bullhorn Lip Lift (subnasal lip lift or indirect lip lift): This is the most common lip lift technique. A single incision is created in the shape of a bullhorn below the nose. The center and sides of the upper lip are then brought upwards.
Central Lip Lift: An incision is created at the base of the nose to lift the center of the upper lip, also called the Cupid’s bow.
Corner Lip Lift: This technique focuses on elevating the corners of the mouth. It is often performed for individuals with downturned or drooping lips.
Gullwing Lip Lift (direct lip lift): An incision is created along the border of the upper lip (similar to the shape of a flying seagull). This helps to create a more defined top lip.
Italian Lip Lift: This technique provides a more subtle lift than a bullhorn lift but does not lift the center of the lip. It involves the creation of two incisions at each nostril.
V to Y Lip Lift: An incision is created in the shape of the letter “V” and closed with an incision in the shape of the letter “Y.”
Lip Lift Recovery
Lip lift surgery is done under local anesthesia in the office and only takes about an hour to complete. The recovery time for a lip lift is fairly quick, only taking about a week. While the incision is healing, you are free to apply makeup to the area to cover it. Your doctor will provide you with a list of instructions to ensure that the healing process goes as smoothly as possible.
Schedule a Lip Lift Consultation in Denver & Lone Tree
To schedule an appointment at FacesFirst Cosmetic Surgery call the office at 303-744-2300 or fill out an online form.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does lip lift take to heal?
How does a lip lift work?
Does lip lift make lips bigger?
Do lip lifts look natural?
Is a lip lift painful?
What is the most attractive lip shape?
Does a lip lift Change your nose?
Does a lip lift limit the movement of my mouth?
Does a lip lift change my smile?
How many times can you get a lip lift?
Are there different types of lip lifts?
Does a lip lift affect the bottom lip?
What treatments can I combine with a lip lift?
How long is recovery after a lip lift?
How Long Does It Take to See Results of a Lip Lift?
Can a Lip Lift Improve Aging Lips?
What Should I Avoid After Lip Lift Surgery?

Nicolette Picerno, M.D.
Dr. Nicolette Picerno is a double-board-certified facial cosmetic surgeon certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology. She received her medical degree from Hahnemann University, School of Medicine in Philadelphia, and completed her fellowship for the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at the Beeson Aesthetic Surgery Institute in Carmel, IN. She also completed the Cenegenics Physician Training and Certification in Age Management Medicine program in 2012 and became a certified BioTE provider in 2014. When not in the office, Dr. Picerno enjoys spending time with her family, hiking, skiing, playing tennis, and running her doggie daycare with her husband.