Italian Lip Lift in Seattle

A graceful, youthful smile relies on proportion. When the upper lip becomes elongated, even by a few millimeters, it can change the entire character of the face by reducing tooth show, flattening curvature, and diminishing the lips’ natural beauty.

At Allure Aesthetic, Dr. Sajan provides Italian lip lift as a more sophisticated solution. It is designed to elevate the central upper lip using two small, strategically placed incisions at the base of the nostrils.

The Italian lip lift is a specialized upper lip shortening procedure that uses two small incisions placed beneath each nostril. Unlike the traditional bullhorn lip lift, which requires one longer continuous incision along the base of the nose, the Italian technique avoids a central incision. As a result, it produces more subtle, localized lifting and a softer, natural outcome.

This method is often suitable for patients who want:

• A refined shortening of the philtrum
• A more defined Cupid’s bow
• A gentle but noticeable increase in lip volume (without filler)
• Improved upper tooth show
• Minimal visible scarring
• A natural-looking enhancement rather than a dramatic lift

Because the lift is created from two points instead of a single curved incision, the Italian lip lift can offer better scar concealment and more controlled shaping. It is especially helpful for patients with delicate nasal anatomy or those seeking a less aggressive result.

The Italian lip lift is designed for individuals who want to address concerns about the upper lip’s length, shape, or overall balance with the lower face. Ideal candidates may experience one or more of the following:

• A long or elongated philtrum
• Flat cupid’s bow or lack of central definition
• Minimal tooth show
• Desire for permanent lip enhancement
• Preference for micro-incisions instead of a continuous scar

During a consultation, Dr. Sajan will evaluate your anatomy, discuss aesthetic goals, and determine which lip lift technique is most appropriate.

The Italian lip lift focuses on enhancing the upper lip through subtle structural refinement rather than drastic reshaping. It follows a series of carefully executed steps, including:

1. Marking the Lift Points: Your surgeon identifies the exact locations for the lift beneath each nostril. These markings guide incision placement and ensure symmetry.
2. Creating Two Micro-Incisions: Two small crescent-shaped incisions are made at the base of the nostrils. Positioning them within natural creases allows for scar concealment and avoids the need for a long central incision.
3. Elevating the Upper Lip: Through each incision, a small amount of skin and underlying tissue is removed. This targeted adjustment gently lifts the central portion of the upper lip, improving tooth show, increasing natural fullness, and refining the Cupid’s bow.
4. Achieving Natural Shortening: The tissues are secured in their new position, shortening the philtrum in a controlled and subtle way. This approach results in a refined lift rather than the more dramatic change created by a bullhorn lip lift.
5. Closing and Concealing the Incisions: The incisions are closed with fine sutures, blending into the base of the nostrils. Because no central incision is made, scars are typically discreet and heal smoothly.

We’ll guide you through these steps in detail during your consultation, helping you understand how the procedure is tailored to your unique anatomy and goals.

While both techniques shorten the upper lip, they do so in very different ways.

Italian Lip Lift

• Two small, separated incisions
• Subtle elevation of central lip
• Excellent scar concealment beneath nostrils
• Softer definition of Cupid’s bow
• Suitable for mild to moderate elongation

Bullhorn Lip Lift

• One continuous incision under the nose
• More dramatic, uniform lift
• Strong projection and shaping
• Suitable for moderate to significant elongation

Patients often choose this technique for its blend of subtlety and refinement. Benefits can include:

• Natural, Elegant Enhancement: The lift improves lip shape without exaggerating proportions or creating an unnatural “pulled” appearance.
• Improved Tooth Show: By elevating the lip center, more of the upper teeth become visible, which is considered a youthful and attractive feature.
• Enhanced Cupid’s Bow: The incisions promote natural central curvature, strengthening lip definition.
• Long-Lasting Results: Unlike fillers, which require maintenance, the Italian lip lift provides enduring enhancement.
• Minimal Scarring: Micro-incisions beneath the nostrils make scars well-hidden and often barely noticeable.
• Subtle Volume Increase: Lifting the central portion of the lip reveals its natural fullness.
• Better Lip Balance: Improves the proportion between the nose, upper lip, and lower lip for overall facial harmony.

At Allure Aesthetic, the Italian lip lift is performed with artistic precision and a deep understanding of facial harmony.

Consultation

Dr. Sajan evaluates:

• Philtrum length
• Cupid’s bow definition
• Lip volume
• Nasal-lip angle
• Desired degree of tooth show
• Skin quality

Photos and measurements help determine the ideal amount of lift.

Anesthesia

Most procedures are typically performed under local anesthesia to keep the patient comfortable and awake.

Surgical Steps

• Marking the ideal lift points
• Creating two tiny incisions
• Removing minimal tissue
• Lifting the lip and securing with delicate sutures
• Ensuring symmetry and natural curvature

Immediate Results

Patients often notice improvement right away, including shorter philtrum, enhanced lip definition, and more youthful tooth show.

The recovery process is generally well-tolerated and quicker than more invasive lip surgeries.

• Swelling & Bruising: Mild to moderate swelling is common for the first week.
• Sutures: Sutures are typically removed in 5–7 days.
• Activity Restrictions: Patients should avoid strenuous exercise for one week, excessive lip movement initially, and stretching or pulling the upper lip.
• Healing Process: Incisions fade significantly over time, often blending seamlessly with the natural shadows of the nostrils.
• Final Results: Patients often see final refinement around 8–12 weeks after surgery.

At Allure Aesthetic, every Italian lip lift procedure is planned to complement the natural harmony of the face. Here’s what you can expect:

Expert Surgical Team

Led by Dr. Javad Sajan, a renowned plastic surgeon known for his experience in aesthetic surgery, each lip lift is performed with a deep understanding of anatomy and proportion. Dr. Sajan’s focus on refined, balanced results allows patients to achieve meaningful enhancement while preserving their unique facial character.

Customized Treatment Planning

The process begins with a comprehensive consultation where Dr. Sajan evaluates the philtrum, lip length, Cupid’s bow shape, and overall facial structure. This individualized planning ensures that the Italian lip lift is tailored to your goals and aligns seamlessly with your existing features for the most natural outcome.

Comprehensive Recovery Support

We focus on guiding patients through a smooth recovery. Detailed aftercare instructions, scar management strategies, and scheduled follow-up visits help ensure that healing progresses safely and predictably. Our team remains available throughout the recovery period to support optimal results.

A consultation at Allure Esthetic offers an opportunity to discuss the available options with Dr. Sajan and find out whether the Italian lip lift is the right approach for your goals. During this in-depth appointment, Dr. Sajan evaluates your facial proportions, lip anatomy, and desired level of enhancement while explaining the technique in clear terms. This is an ideal setting to ask questions, review potential outcomes, and understand how the procedure can be tailored to your features. To learn more about whether an Italian lip lift aligns with your aesthetic vision, call us at (206) 209-0988 to schedule your consultation.

Is the Italian lip lift permanent?

The results are often long-lasting, though natural aging continues.

Will the scars be visible?

Scars are placed precisely beneath each nostril and typically fade well.

Does this lift replace lip fillers?

It can for some patients. However, fillers may still be used for shape or volume enhancement.

Is the result noticeable but natural?

Yes, this technique is known for its understated but elegant improvement.

What is the best type of lip lift?

The best lip lift depends on a patient’s anatomy, goals, and desired level of enhancement. A surgeon will recommend the most appropriate technique based on which approach provides the most balanced and natural-looking outcome.

What is the difference between an Italian lip lift and a bullhorn lip lift?

The Italian lip lift uses two separate micro-incisions under the nostrils to create a subtle, refined lift. The bullhorn lip lift uses one continuous incision beneath the nose and typically produces a more dramatic, uniform shortening of the philtrum.

How much does the Italian lip lift cost?

The cost of an Italian lip lift varies based on the surgeon’s expertise, geographic location, and the specifics of the procedure. A consultation provides a personalized quote and helps determine the total investment based on individual needs.

What is the best age for a lip lift?

There is no single best age for a lip lift. The ideal timing depends on anatomy, personal goals, and whether the lip shape feels out of balance or less expressive than desired.