Lip reduction is a cosmetic surgical procedure performed when the lips are disproportionately large or protruding in relation to the face. Due to genetic factors, it may be more common in some individuals (e.g., those of African or South Asian descent). In most cases, the lower lip is affected, while in some patients both lips are involved. The goal is to achieve a natural, harmonious lip volume while preserving function.

• Anesthesia: Local anesthesia

• Duration: Approximately 30–45 minutes

• Incisions: Inside the lip, along the wet–dry border

• Hospital stay: Not required (same-day discharge)

• Recovery: Swelling/bruising is prominent in the first few days, mostly subsides within 1–4 weeks

• Final result: Takes shape within 4–6 months

• Individuals with congenitally/structurally large lips

• Those experiencing difficulty closing the mouth, drooling, or speech discomfort due to lip volume

• Patients seeking a more balanced smile and improved lip–nose–chin proportion

Smokers, patients with active cold sores (herpes), or systemic conditions should undergo preoperative evaluation with their doctor.

Incisions are planned along the wet–dry line (vermilion–mucosal junction) inside the lip. According to preoperative measurements, an appropriate amount of tissue is removed, the lip contour is reshaped, and closed with fine aesthetic sutures. Since the incisions are inside the mouth, no visible external scars remain. The aim is to reduce volume while preserving natural contour and maintaining oral competence.

• First days: Swelling and bruising are normal; speech and smiling may be limited.

• Week 1: Swelling decreases significantly; absorbable sutures dissolve spontaneously.

• Weeks 2–4: Lip volume and contour begin to settle; most patients resume social activities.

• 4–6 months: Final shape and softness achieved.

• Apply intermittent cold compresses for the first 48–72 hours to reduce swelling.

• Oral hygiene is crucial: Regular rinsing and gargling are recommended.

• Avoid hot food/drinks for 3 days; prefer soft foods.

• Avoid strenuous mouth movements, intense exercise, and sauna/steam rooms during the first week.

• Take prescribed medications regularly and attend follow-up appointments.

As with any surgery, rare risks include:

• Bleeding, infection, prolonged swelling

• Asymmetry, irregularities in the lip line

• Temporary numbness/sensory changes

• Difficulty closing the mouth due to excessive tissue removal (minimized with experienced surgical planning)

The distance between the upper lip and the base of the nose (philtrum) may lengthen with age or be structurally longer than average. This can cause the lips to appear thin and turned inward, while reducing upper teeth visibility when smiling. Lip lift is a surgical procedure that involves precise skin removal beneath the nose to elevate and slightly evert the upper lip. This enhances lip contour, increases the visible “red lip,” and creates a more balanced facial proportion.

• Patients with a long upper lip–nose distance

• Those who cannot achieve sufficient red lip show with fillers

• Individuals with inward-rolled lips and limited upper teeth display when smiling

• Patients seeking a more youthful and dynamic lip–nose ratio

The procedure may be postponed in cases of active smoking, wound-healing problems, or active infections.

• Technique: In my practice, I use the modified “bullhorn” subnasal lip lift technique.

• Incisions and Scar: Incisions are placed along the natural creases at the base of the nose, hiding the scar.

• Steps: A planned amount of skin is removed based on measurements; the upper lip is lifted and secured with fine aesthetic sutures.

• Anesthesia: Usually performed under local anesthesia.

• Duration: Approximately 30–45 minutes.

• Combinations: Can be combined with facial rejuvenation surgeries; if necessary, may be combined with a corner lip lift.

• First 72 hours: Intermittent cold compresses reduce swelling.

• Pain/Swelling: Mild to moderate in the first days; most patients return to light activities the next day.

• Sutures: Typically removed on days 5–7 (depending on suture type).

• Scar Care: After suture removal, silicone gel/strips and SPF 50+ sun protection help scar maturation.

• Social Life: Makeup can camouflage the scar from week 1; scar maturation takes 3–6 months.

As with all surgical procedures, rare risks include:

• Bleeding, infection, prolonged swelling

• Asymmetry, under/over-correction

• Visible scarring (depending on individual healing)

• Temporary sensory changes

Experienced surgical planning and meticulous suturing techniques minimize these risks.

• Lip lift: Shortens upper lip–nose distance, enhances red lip show; structural and permanent effect.

• Filler: Adds volume and defines contour; temporary.

• Combined: In selected patients, a small amount of filler may be used after a lip lift for fine adjustments.