Is a Lip Lift Painful?

The procedure itself will be pain-free due to anesthesia. You can expect some swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort after surgery, but pain medication and cold compresses can help alleviate these symptoms.

How Many Appointments Will I Need?

Dr. Rabach will have you return to our office approximately one week after surgery, so she can monitor your recovery and remove any bandages or sutures. She will also let you know when she wants to see you next.

How Long Until I See Results?

While many patients will be able to see some positive results immediately following your procedure, you should expect to see better results in about three months, with your final lip ratio settling at the one-year mark.

What Will the Scarring Look Like?

Dr. Rabach uses a discreet technique with the incision placed precisely along the natural crease at the base of the nose. In most patients, the resulting scar is virtually imperceptible after healing. With proper post-operative care and sun protection, the scar typically fades to a thin, skin-colored line within a few months. For patients concerned about visible scarring, scar-minimizing treatments such as laser therapy or silicone sheeting may be recommended.

When Can I Exercise Again After My Lip Lift?

You should avoid strenuous physical activity, including exercise, for at least 10 to 14 days after your surgery. Light walking is encouraged early on to promote circulation, but intense workouts (especially those involving heavy lifting or a high heart rate) should be avoided until cleared by Dr. Rabach during your follow-up appointments.

Can I Combine a Lip Lift With Other Procedures?

While every patient’s concerns are unique, many of our patients combine their lip lifts with other enhancements, such as rhinoplasty, chin implants , or facelifts , to achieve the overall aesthetic transformation they seek. During your initial consultation, you will have the opportunity to discuss all your goals with Dr. Rabach, allowing her to create a personalized surgical plan that addresses your specific concerns.

What Are the Risks Associated With a Lip Lift?

A lip lift has the following risks associated with it that are important to outline: Allergic reactions to anesthesia Blood loss during or after surgery Infection Nerve damage Poor wound healing Scarring Uneven lips If you experience any long-lasting or unexpected reactions during your recovery, please contact us at LM Medical NYC immediately.

New York, NY

Lip Lift

Introduction

Introduction to Lip Lift

Beautiful lips are a hallmark of feminine, attractive faces and one of the most coveted features in today’s society. Many women turn to injectable fillers to increase the size or enhance the shape of their lips, but volume isn’t always the answer. Often, a lip lift, which is an in-office procedure that surgically shortens the distance between the bottom of the nose and the pink part, or vermillion, of the lip, known as the philtrum, offers a longer-lasting, more natural, and elegant solution. This can be the case when aging has increased that distance. As we age, collagen and elastin break down in the skin, causing the philtrum length to increase by approximately 1 millimeter each decade. This can also be the case if you are born with a “longer” upper lip. A long upper lip or flat upper lip can detract from youthful lip appearance, and a lip lift addresses these concerns by restoring a more balanced and attractive look.

Lip plastic surgery can reshape and lift the lip to create a more harmonious and proportioned appearance, enhancing your overall natural beauty. The procedure involves removing excess skin to elevate the upper lip, thereby improving the lip’s appearance and facial balance. Lip lifts offer a rejuvenating effect and are considered part of a broader category of facial rejuvenation procedures designed to restore a youthful facial appearance. Lip augmentation can be achieved through surgical or non-surgical means, and a lip lift is a type of lip augmentation that offers natural and lasting results.

When you choose Dr. Lesley Rabach, double board-certified facial plastic surgeon, and our team at LM Medical NYC, you are selecting an experienced and skilled expert in lip lift surgery in New York City to rejuvenate and enhance the upper lip and mouth. It is a perfect procedure for patients who want to increase lip volume but want a more natural and long-lasting solution than hyaluronic fillers. If you’re interested in learning more about a lip lift in New York City, we’d be delighted to schedule a consultation at one of our locations. Please contact our patient care coordinator to learn more about the procedure, and continue reading below.

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What is a Lip Lift?

At LM Medical NYC, we offer a modified bullhorn lip lift. This type of lip lift targets the upper lip and the philtrum (the space between the nose and the lip). It elevates the upper lip and shortens the distance between the lips and the nasal area. A tiny strip of excess skin will be removed, and the incision is carefully placed along the natural lip line or just beneath the nose for a discreet result. The upper lip will then be raised. Dr. Lesley uses a refined surgical technique to achieve optimal results.

This procedure is performed on young patients to enhance their lips and lower face ratio. The procedure is also performed on older patients, as the skin above the lip lengthens over time. Dr. Lesley’s perfected technique yields the best and most natural results, with a quick healing time and minimal, if any, scarring.

A woman with wavy blonde hair rests her chin on her hand, smiling softly while leaning against a stone railing. - Liplift in New York, NY

Types of Lip Lift Procedures

There are several types of lip lift procedures available in New York City, each designed to address different aesthetic goals and facial anatomies. The most popular option is the bullhorn lip lift, which involves a carefully placed incision along the natural curve at the base of the nose, allowing for a significant lift of the upper lip and a more defined lip contour.

The Italian lip lift is another technique that utilizes two smaller incisions at the base of the nostrils to subtly elevate the upper lip, resulting in minimal visible scarring. For those seeking a more conservative approach, the subnasal lip lift—sometimes called the “hidden” lip lift—places the incision discreetly beneath the nose, resulting in a gentle enhancement of the upper lip’s shape and position.

Each of these lip lift procedures offers unique advantages, from creating a more pronounced Cupid’s bow to improving the overall balance of the lips and facial proportions. The best choice depends on your individual facial anatomy, desired outcome, and personal preferences. Consulting with a skilled facial plastic surgeon in New York City is the most effective way to determine which lip lift technique will help you achieve your ideal results while maintaining a natural, harmonious appearance.

Lip Lift Quick Facts

Surgery Time: The surgery typically takes 45 minutes to 1 hour

Anesthesia: Typically we use oral medication and local anesthesia only

Recovery: 4–7 days for most daily activities; full healing takes several weeks

Results: Noticeable improvement immediately; final results in 3–6 months, with continued refinement for up to one year

What Are the Benefits of a Lip Lift?

Patients who have received a lip lift in New York City have enjoyed its numerous benefits, including the facial rejuvenation it provides. Some other benefits include:

Enhancing overall lip appearance for a more youthful and attractive look
Balancing symmetry in lips
Shortens the distance between the lips and nose
Causes increased lip show
Increasing the projection of Cupid’s bow
Improvement in smokers’ lines or the lines in the skin above the lip
Shortens the length of the midface
Reduction in the need for lip filler

Who Are the Best Candidates For a Lip Lift?

A lip lift typically benefits patients who do not benefit from lip fillers or who want to create more symmetry in the lower face. This procedure will help achieve fuller-looking lips that are slightly lifted and expose the upper teeth more when smiling. Ideal patients for a lip lift in New York City have:

Thin or “bird” lips
Asymmetric lips
A sagging appearance to the mouth
The ability to maintain realistic expectations
No underlying health issues

What’s the first step?

The first step in getting a lip lift in New York City is scheduling a lip lift consultation with Dr. Lesley Rabach at our New York City office. During your lip lift consultation, Dr. Rabach will discuss your medical history, aesthetic goals, concerns, and expectations to ensure a personalized approach tailored to your needs. If surgery is the best approach, she will examine the shape, size, and proportions of your lips and mouth area. She will then outline the procedure, including its risks and benefits, as well as the recovery timeline.

Once you both agree to proceed, Dr. Rabach will design a treatment plan. You can then take this plan to our patient coordinator to discuss pricing options, schedule your procedure, and receive pre-operative instructions.

The Lip Lift in New York: Trends and Insights

In New York City, the lip lift has become a highly sought-after cosmetic procedure for those looking to achieve a more youthful and balanced facial appearance. Recent trends show that most patients seeking a lip lift are between the ages of 35 and 55, aiming to restore the natural fullness and definition of their upper lip that may have diminished over time. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, making it a convenient option for busy New Yorkers who want minimal downtime and immediate improvement.

The popularity of the lip lift in New York City can be attributed to the city’s emphasis on refined, natural-looking results and the expertise of its facial plastic surgeons. While any surgical procedure carries some risk, such as visible scarring, infection, or asymmetry, choosing an experienced facial plastic surgeon in New York significantly reduces these concerns. Patients in New York City value the lip lift for its ability to deliver a subtle yet noticeable enhancement, helping them achieve a more youthful appearance and a balanced, attractive smile.

How Do I Prepare for My Lip Lift?

To prepare for your lip lift procedure at LM Medical NYC, we recommend the following steps to help ensure a smooth surgery and a successful surgery outcome:

Avoid blood thinners: Discontinue medications or supplements like aspirin, ibuprofen, vitamin E, and fish oil (unless prescribed by your physician) at least one week prior to surgery.
Stop smoking: Smoking can impair healing. Please stop smoking at least 2 weeks before and after surgery.
Arrange for a ride home: Since you may receive anesthesia, ensure that someone is available to drive or accompany you after the procedure.
Follow pre-operative instructions: Dr. Rabach will provide you with personalized pre-surgery guidelines, including skincare routines and medications to avoid.

What to Expect on the Day of Lip Lift Surgery

The entire process on the day of your lip lift surgery includes check-in, preoperative preparations, anesthesia administration, the procedure itself, and postoperative care to ensure a smooth experience from start to finish.

On the day of your lip lift in New York City, Dr. Rabach and her staff will receive you at the practice, get you settled in your procedure room, and review the surgical plan in case of any outstanding questions. This procedure can be performed as a standalone procedure, which is most commonly done with local anesthesia and, oftentimes, an oral medication that helps relax you. It is commonly performed in conjunction with a deep plane facelift and neck lift, and if this is part of that procedure, once you are comfortable, a board-certified anesthesiologist will administer anesthesia to keep you pain-free during the procedure.

In the local cases, once you are numb, Dr. Rabach will begin by creating a hidden incision beneath the nose. She will then lift and move the lip to a final position that aligns with your aesthetic goals. Finally, she will seal the incision with tiny stitches that are removed after 6 days.

A lip lift will take less than an hour to complete.

Lip Lift Recovery

Post-surgery, the staff will monitor you in the recovery room to ensure you fully recover from anesthesia. They will discharge you with post-operative instructions, which you are encouraged to follow to promote proper healing and ensure proper healing.

The healing process typically involves some minor swelling or bruising, which usually resolves within one week. As the healing process progresses, swelling and bruising diminish, and the final results become more noticeable over the following weeks to months.

Most patients return to normal daily activities after 4 to 7 days.

Tips for Recovery

We will provide you with comprehensive post-op instructions to follow, but some of the basic tips you should keep in mind are listed below:

Cold compresses: Use cold compresses intermittently during the first 24–48 hours to minimize swelling.
Head elevation: Sleep with your head elevated for several days to reduce swelling.
No strenuous activity: Avoid vigorous exercise, heavy lifting, or bending over for at least 1–2 weeks.
Gentle cleansing: Keep the incision area clean and dry. Use only the products recommended by Dr. Rabach.
Protect your skin: Use SPF 30 or higher to prevent hyperpigmentation of the healing scar.

How Much Does a Lip Lift Cost in New York City, NY?

The Cost of a Lip Lift in New York City will depend on many factors, including, but not limited to, the complexity of the procedure, Dr. Rabach’s fees, and the anesthetist’s fees. The fastest way to arrive at a price estimate is to schedule a consultation, allowing you to develop a surgical plan that can be accurately priced.

The LM MEDICAL NYC Difference

Dr. Lesley Rabach is an expert facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon, board-certified by both the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) and the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS), and is affiliated with the American Board of Otolaryngology (ABO). Her surgical training included a fellowship sponsored by the American Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery, as well as a residency and internship in Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery at Yale New Haven Hospital. She received her Medical Degree from Drexel University College of Medicine and her undergraduate degree from Brown University.

Dr. Lesley is internationally recognized for her natural but lasting results with minimal downtime. She should be your absolute choice for your lip lift in New York City. Her signature procedures are deep plane face and neck lifts, lip lifts, and eyelid surgery. Dr. Rabach is a Clinical Assistant Professor at NYU/Bellevue, where she teaches the NYU facial plastics fellow and NYU Otolaryngology residents. Dr. Lesley has been recognized as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor, and New York Times Super Doctor for her excellence in patient care and most recently inducted into Persana.

Choosing a Lip Lift Surgeon in New York City

Selecting the right surgeon for your lip lift in New York City is a crucial step toward achieving beautiful, natural-looking results. When considering lip lift procedures, it’s essential to seek a facial plastic surgeon who is board-certified and has extensive experience specifically with lip lifts and other facial enhancement treatments. A surgeon’s qualifications, training, and track record with similar procedures can make a significant difference in both your experience and your outcome.

Beyond credentials, pay attention to the surgeon’s approach to patient care. A skilled facial plastic surgeon will take the time to listen to your goals, address your questions, and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique facial anatomy and aesthetic preferences. Reading reviews and testimonials from previous patients in New York City can provide valuable insight into the surgeon’s skill, bedside manner, and the satisfaction of their clients. By carefully researching and selecting a reputable, experienced surgeon, you can be confident that your lip lift will enhance your lips and overall facial harmony, ultimately giving you the youthful appearance you desire.

Lip Lift FAQ’S

Dr. Rabach uses a discreet technique with the incision placed precisely along the natural crease at the base of the nose. In most patients, the resulting scar is virtually imperceptible after healing. With proper post-operative care and sun protection, the scar typically fades to a thin, skin-colored line within a few months. For patients concerned about visible scarring, scar-minimizing treatments such as laser therapy or silicone sheeting may be recommended.
While every patient’s concerns are unique, many of our patients combine their lip lifts with other enhancements, such as rhinoplasty, chin implants, or facelifts, to achieve the overall aesthetic transformation they seek. During your initial consultation, you will have the opportunity to discuss all your goals with Dr. Rabach, allowing her to create a personalized surgical plan that addresses your specific concerns.
A lip lift has the following risks associated with it that are important to outline:
- Allergic reactions to anesthesia
- Blood loss during or after surgery
- Infection
- Nerve damage
- Poor wound healing
- Scarring
- Uneven lips
If you experience any long-lasting or unexpected reactions during your recovery, please contact us at LM Medical NYC immediately.

LM Medical NYC

Schedule a Consultation

A lip lift can reshape your lips to create a fuller, more youthful appearance. To learn more about lip lift surgery, please contact us at LM Medical NYC. With two convenient locations in the Upper East Side and Greenwich Village, we can schedule a personal lip consultation with renowned facial surgeon Dr. Lesley to discuss the available surgical and non-surgical treatments.

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