FeminizationSurgeries.com
A long upper lip can make your smile appear flat and aged. Lip fillers provide temporary volume but cannot shorten the philtrum or elevate lip position. A central lip lift offers a permanent surgical solution that shortens the distance between your nose and upper lip, creating a naturally enhanced, youthful smile that injectable treatments cannot achieve.
What Is a Central Lip Lift?
A central lip lift is a precise surgical procedure that permanently shortens the philtrum (the space between your nose and upper lip) by focusing specifically on the central portion of the upper lip. This advanced technique involves removing a small strip of skin beneath the nose at the center, elevating the middle of the upper lip to reveal more vermillion (the pink part of your lip), and creating enhanced cupid's bow definition and dental show when smiling.
Unlike temporary lip fillers that add volume, a central lip lift restructures the upper lip anatomy for lasting results. The procedure targets only the central third of the upper lip, preserving natural lip corners while creating an elegant cupid's bow emphasis. This technique differs from a subnasal bullhorn lip lift, which extends the incision from one nostril to the other and lifts the entire upper lip, including the sides. In contrast, the central lip lift focuses exclusively on enhancing the middle portion.
Benefits of Central Lip Lift Surgery
Permanent Lip Enhancement
Central lip lift surgery delivers permanent results that eliminate the need for repeated filler injections. Your enhanced lip position and improved vermillion show remain consistent year after year.
Youthful Facial Proportions
The procedure restores ideal facial ratios by reducing philtrum length, which naturally elongates with age. A shorter philtrum creates a more youthful, balanced appearance that harmonizes with your facial features.
Enhanced Tooth Display
Central lip lift surgery improves upper tooth visibility when smiling, creating a more vibrant, engaging smile without appearing artificial or overdone.
Natural-Looking Results
When performed by an experienced surgeon like Dr. Javad Sajan, the procedure maintains your unique facial characteristics while enhancing your natural beauty.
Who Is an Ideal Candidate for a Central Lip Lift?
The best candidates for central lip lift surgery typically have:
- A philtrum length exceeding 15mm (measured from the nose base to upper lip)
- Thin upper lips with minimal vermillion show
- Age-related lip lengthening and volume loss
- Dissatisfaction with temporary filler results
- Good overall health and realistic expectations
- Non-smoking status or willingness to quit before surgery
During your consultation at Allure Esthetic Plastic Surgery, Dr. Sajan will evaluate your facial anatomy, measure your philtrum length, and discuss whether a central lip lift aligns with your aesthetic goals.
The Central Lip Lift Procedure
Pre-Operative Planning
Dr. Sajan begins with precise measurements and markings to ensure optimal lip elevation while maintaining facial harmony. The bullhorn-shaped excision pattern is carefully designed to hide within the natural nasal base contours.
Surgical Technique
The procedure typically takes 45 to 60 minutes under local anesthesia with sedation. Dr. Sajan removes a predetermined amount of skin tissue, then meticulously sutures the deep muscle layers before closing the skin with fine sutures to minimize scarring.
Advanced Closure Methods
Using specialized techniques, Dr. Sajan ensures the scar remains concealed within the natural nose-lip junction, becoming virtually invisible once fully healed.
Recovery and Results
Immediate Post-Operative Period
Initial swelling peaks within 48 to 72 hours after surgery. Most patients experience minimal discomfort managed with prescribed medications. Sutures are typically removed after 5 to 7 days.
Return to Normal Activities
Most patients resume work and social activities within 7 to 10 days. Strenuous exercise should be avoided for 3 to 4 weeks to ensure optimal healing.
Long-Term Results
While initial results are visible immediately, final results emerge after 3 to 6 months as swelling completely resolves. The enhanced lip position and improved facial proportions are permanent, aging naturally with your face over time.
Central Lip Lift vs. Other Lip Enhancement Options
Lip Fillers
Temporary results lasting 6 to 12 months require ongoing maintenance. Fillers add volume but cannot shorten the philtrum or elevate lip position.
Corner Lip Lift
Addresses downturned mouth corners rather than central lip elevation. Often combined with a central lip lift for comprehensive rejuvenation.
Lip Implants
Add permanent volume without addressing philtrum length or lip position. There is a risk of migration or rejection with implant materials.
Why Choose Allure Esthetic Plastic Surgery?
Dr. Javad Sajan brings exceptional expertise in facial plastic surgery, specializing in natural-looking lip enhancement procedures. His meticulous surgical technique and artistic eye ensure results that enhance your unique beauty while maintaining facial harmony. At Allure Esthetic Plastic Surgery, we provide board-certified plastic surgery expertise, state-of-the-art surgical facilities, personalized treatment planning, comprehensive post-operative care, and a proven track record of satisfied patients who have achieved their aesthetic goals.
Central Lip Lift Cost
The cost of central lip lift surgery at Allure Esthetic Plastic Surgery is $6,995. This comprehensive fee includes surgeon's fees, facility costs, anesthesia fees, post-operative care appointments, and all necessary surgical supplies. We offer flexible financing options to make your transformation accessible and affordable.
Take the Next Step Toward Your Perfect Smile
Contact Allure Esthetic Plastic Surgery now at 206-209-0988 or book your consultation online to begin your transformation with Seattle's premier central lip lift specialist. Your ideal smile awaits with the artistic expertise and surgical precision that only Dr. Sajan and Allure Esthetic Plastic Surgery can provide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a central lip lift last?
Central lip lift results are permanent. The surgical repositioning of your upper lip creates lasting enhancement that ages naturally with your face over decades.
Will I have visible scarring after central lip lift surgery?
When performed by an experienced surgeon like Dr. Sajan, the incision is strategically placed at the nasal base where it becomes virtually invisible within 6 to 12 months following surgery.
Can I combine a central lip lift with other procedures?
Yes, many patients combine central lip lift with rhinoplasty, facelift, or other facial rejuvenation procedures for comprehensive enhancement.
What is the ideal philtrum length after surgery?
The optimal philtrum length typically ranges from 11 to 13mm for women and 13 to 15mm for men, though Dr. Sajan customizes measurements based on your individual facial proportions.
How much upper tooth should show when lips are relaxed?
Ideally, 1 to 3mm of upper teeth should be visible with relaxed lips, creating a youthful, attractive appearance.
Is central lip lift surgery painful?
Most patients report minimal discomfort during recovery, easily managed with prescribed pain medication for the first few days following surgery.
When can I wear lipstick after central lip lift?
You can typically resume wearing makeup, including lipstick, after suture removal at 5 to 7 days following surgery.
Will a central lip lift affect my ability to smile naturally?
No, when performed correctly, a central lip lift enhances your natural smile without affecting muscle function or facial expression.
