Lip Lift in Seattle

Facial expressions often change subtly with age, and one of the first areas to reflect this shift is the space between the nose and upper lip. As that distance increases, the upper lip can appear thinner, the teeth may show less when smiling, and the overall expression can seem less lively or defined. Lipstick fades faster, smiles lose their fullness, and the mouth can take on a slightly downturned appearance, even when relaxed.

A lip lift at Allure Esthetic in Seattle, performed by Dr. Javad Sajan, offers a surgical solution to restore balance and youthful proportions. By shortening the space between the nose and the upper lip, this procedure gently elevates the lip, revealing more of the natural pink tissue and creating a soft, refreshed contour.

A lip lift is a surgical procedure designed to permanently enhance the upper lip's appearance and position. Unlike temporary fillers that add volume, this procedure works by removing a precisely measured strip of skin beneath the nose, effectively shortening the philtrum (the area between your nose and upper lip). This modification reveals more of the pink lip tissue, creating a naturally fuller appearance while maintaining your unique facial characteristics.

The procedure has gained significant popularity as patients seek more permanent solutions for lip enhancement. We recognize that facial proportions play a crucial role in overall attractiveness, and the lip lift addresses these proportions at their foundation rather than simply adding volume.

Subnasal Bullhorn Lip Lift

The bullhorn lip lift, also known as the subnasal lip lift, is the most commonly performed technique at Allure Esthetic. This method involves creating a discreet, bullhorn-shaped incision just beneath the base of the nose. By removing a small strip of skin and lifting the upper lip, the distance between the nose and lip shortens, revealing more of the natural pink tissue.

This subtle elevation enhances the Cupid’s bow and restores youthful definition without adding volume through fillers. Because the incision sits in the natural crease under the nose, scarring is typically minimal and well-concealed in most cases. The bullhorn lip lift is ideal for patients seeking a more permanent solution to a flat or elongated upper lip while maintaining natural facial proportions.

Central Lip Lift

The central lip lift focuses primarily on enhancing the middle portion of the upper lip and defining the Cupid’s bow. A small incision is made beneath the center of the nose to lift only the central area, leaving the corners of the mouth untouched. This approach is well-suited for individuals whose upper lip appears long or lacks curvature in the Cupid’s bow region. By selectively lifting the central area, the procedure enhances lip contour and improves tooth show when smiling.

The central lip lift is subtle and precise, often chosen by patients looking for natural refinement rather than a dramatic change.

Corner

The corner lip lift is designed to elevate the outer corners of the mouth, addressing a naturally downturned or “frowning” expression. Small incisions are made at the corners of the lips, allowing Dr. Sajan to remove tiny wedges of skin and gently lift the mouth edges. This creates a softer, more approachable appearance without affecting the central lip.

The corner lip lift can be performed alone or in combination with other lip procedures, such as a bullhorn or direct lip lift, for more comprehensive rejuvenation. It’s especially beneficial for individuals who notice their mouth corners drooping with age or want to correct a persistent tired or sad expression.

Direct Lip Lift (Gullwing Lip Lift)

The direct lip lift, also called the gullwing lip lift, enhances the definition and curvature of the upper lip border. An incision is made along the natural edge of the upper lip, allowing for direct removal of excess skin and precise repositioning of the lip margin. This technique creates a more defined “gullwing” shape and increases visible pink lip tissue. While the incision line sits just above the vermilion border, it typically heals well and becomes less noticeable over time.

It can be a good option for patients seeking sharper lip definition or those who want a more structured upper lip without relying on fillers. It’s also used in combination with other facial rejuvenation procedures for a balanced, youthful outcome.

Italian Lip Lift

The Italian lip lift provides subtle enhancement by lifting the outer sections of the upper lip using two small incisions beneath each nostril. Unlike the Bullhorn technique, which lifts the entire upper lip, the Italian lip lift targets the sides, giving the lips a gentle upward curve while maintaining a natural central shape.

This approach is well-suited for patients who want more balance and lift without significant central elevation. The incisions are strategically hidden in the nasal folds, resulting in minimal visible scarring. The technique offers a refined, delicate improvement that enhances facial symmetry and softens the overall expression, making it a popular choice among those looking for understated, natural-looking enhancement.

V-Y Lip Lift

The V-Y lip lift is a versatile technique that focuses on adding vertical height and volume to the upper lip without external incisions. Dr. Sajan creates a “V”-shaped incision inside the lip and closes it in a “Y” configuration, which advances the inner tissue outward. This internal lift increases the visible pink portion of the lip, giving it a fuller and more youthful appearance. Because all incisions are inside the mouth, there are no external scars. The V-Y lip lift is often chosen by patients who prefer a more subtle enhancement or want to combine it with other procedures for comprehensive lip rejuvenation. It can be effective for individuals with thinner lips who want added projection and definition while keeping results natural.

Modified Lip Lift

The modified lip lift is a more advanced and comprehensive variation that adjusts not only the skin but also the deeper muscular and connective tissues around the upper lip. This approach provides a more stable and long-lasting lift by supporting the underlying structure, resulting in natural movement and contour. The incision is typically made beneath the nose, similar to a bullhorn lip lift, but the internal work extends deeper for enhanced shaping and precision. This technique is ideal for patients seeking a significant yet natural improvement in upper lip position, particularly those with a longer philtrum or diminished upper lip projection. The modified lip lift delivers subtle volume enhancement, improved tooth show, and a balanced, youthful facial proportion.

A lip lift offers subtle yet meaningful enhancement to the lower face. By reshaping and elevating the upper lip, it restores balance, improves definition, and enhances overall facial harmony in a way that looks natural and long-lasting.

• Improved Lip Definition: The procedure reveals more of the natural pink lip tissue, creating a fuller, more defined upper lip without the need for fillers.
• Restored Facial Balance: Shortening the distance between the nose and upper lip helps bring proportional balance to the lower third of the face.
• Enhanced Smile Aesthetics: Elevating the upper lip allows more of the teeth to show when smiling, creating a brighter, more expressive appearance.
• Natural, Lasting Results: Because the tissue is repositioned rather than volumized, results appear soft and natural, offering long-term improvement without ongoing maintenance.
• Subtle Rejuvenation: The lift enhances youthful features while preserving individuality—never appearing exaggerated or overdone.
• Pairs Well with Other Procedures: A lip lift can complement facial surgeries such as rhinoplasty or facelift to achieve an overall harmonious result.

At Allure Esthetic, Dr. Javad Sajan plans each lip lift around the patient’s facial structure and aesthetic goals, ensuring every enhancement looks balanced and authentic

Before the Procedure

Preparation begins with a detailed consultation with Dr. Javad Sajan. During this visit, your facial anatomy, goals, and medical history are reviewed to determine which lip lift technique is best suited for you.

Before surgery:

• Avoid alcohol, smoking, and blood-thinning medications (like aspirin or certain herbal supplements).
• Follow all pre-operative instructions provided by your surgical team.
• Discuss any questions or concerns about the procedure or recovery beforehand.

During the Procedure

A lip lift is typically performed under local anesthesia, keeping you comfortable and awake during surgery.

• Small incisions are made based on the chosen lip lift type (most often beneath the nose).
• A precise amount of skin is removed to shorten the philtrum and elevate the upper lip.
• The incision is closed with fine sutures for optimal healing.

After the Procedure

Patients may go home the same day. Post-surgery instructions may include:

• Sleeping on your back with your head elevated.
• Limiting talking and facial movement initially.
• Avoiding alcohol, smoking, and strenuous activity during recovery.
• Eating soft foods to minimize strain.

Mild swelling or tightness is normal and gradually subsides as healing progresses. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor recovery and remove sutures if necessary.

During your consultation, Dr. Sajan will evaluate facial structure, skin quality, and aesthetic goals to determine if a lip lift aligns with your individual features. It may be suitable for those who have:

• Longer philtrum
• Facial proportion concerns
• Thin upper lip
• Good overall health
• Realistic expectations

At Allure Esthetic in Seattle, lip lift procedures are performed with an emphasis on anatomy-based planning and open communication.

• Experienced Surgical Team: Led by Dr. Javad Sajan, a renowned plastic surgeon with extensive experience in facial and aesthetic procedures, our team focuses on precision and proportional balance rather than exaggerated change.
• Individualized Planning: Each treatment begins with a detailed consultation that examines facial structure, lip shape, and aesthetic goals to ensure the procedure aligns naturally with the patient’s features.
• Attention to Recovery: Post-operative guidance includes step-by-step care instructions, scar management, and follow-up visits to support safe healing and consistent results.

A lip lift consultation at Allure Esthetic in Seattle provides an opportunity to discuss your aesthetic goals with Dr. Javad Sajan. During this personalized meeting, you can gain a clearer understanding of the procedure, the various techniques available, and how they might align with your individual facial structure. To explore whether a lip lift is a suitable choice for you, call us at (206) 209-0988.

How long do lip lifts last?

A lip lift provides permanent results in terms of repositioning since it involves removing a small amount of skin to shorten the distance between the nose and upper lip. While aging continues naturally, the improvement in lip position and shape remains long-term.

How much do lip lifts cost?

The cost of a lip lift varies depending on the technique used, surgeon experience, and location. Schedule a consultation with us to get a personalized estimate based on individual goals and surgical needs.

What does a lip lift do?

A lip lift shortens the space between the nose and upper lip to reveal more of the pink lip and improve facial proportion. This creates a naturally fuller, more defined upper lip and enhances smile aesthetics.

What is the best age for a lip lift?

Patients often choose a lip lift in their 30s to 60s, when aging causes the upper lip to elongate and thin. However, younger individuals with a naturally long philtrum may also consider the procedure.

Is a lip lift better than filler?

A lip lift offers a permanent structural change, while fillers provide temporary volume that lasts several months. Patients looking to achieve lasting results and natural proportions may choose lip lift, while others combine both for enhanced shape and fullness.

Does a lip lift change the smile?

Yes, a lip lift can enhance how the smile appears by revealing more of the upper teeth and adding subtle definition to the lips. The change is typically natural, helping the smile look more open and balanced.

How painful is a lip lift?

Discomfort is usually mild, as the procedure is performed under local anesthesia to numb the area. Patients may experience slight soreness or tightness for a few days, which subsides as healing progresses.