Lip Lift in San Jose
A lip lift provides permanent enhancement of upper lip shape and facial harmony. It is an excellent option for patients who desire a naturally fuller-looking upper lip, improved tooth show when smiling, or who have experienced elongation of the upper lip with aging.
Why Choose a Lip Lift at Yang Facial Plastic Surgery
A lip lift (upper lip lift surgery) is a facial plastic surgery procedure designed to shorten the distance between the base of the nose and the upper lip, known as the philtrum. As the face ages, the upper lip can become elongated, thinner, and less defined, reducing the visibility of the natural pink portion of the lip. A lip lift addresses these changes by gently elevating the upper lip, increasing visible vermilion, enhancing the natural shape of the Cupid's bow, and creating more balanced facial proportions. Unlike lip fillers, which add volume, a surgical lip lift creates a lasting change in upper lip position without relying on injectable augmentation.
At Yang Facial Plastic Surgery in San Jose, Dr. Chim Yang takes an individualized approach to lip lift surgery, carefully evaluating philtrum length, upper lip anatomy, dental show, lip shape, and overall facial proportions. Surgical planning is tailored to each patient's anatomy and aesthetic goals, with an emphasis on precise tissue removal, balanced lip elevation, and discreet incision placement beneath the natural contours of the nose. The goal is a naturally refreshed upper lip that complements your facial features without appearing overly elevated or artificial.
How it Works
A small strip of skin is removed from the upper lip, allowing the upper lip to be lifted into a more attractive position.
What to Expect
Appointment usually begins with a detailed facial assessment and photos. Dr. Yang will customize the surgical techniques to address your specific aesthetic goals and facial anatomy. Surgery is performed under local or general anesthesia, and your safety is prioritized at all times.
When You’ll See Results
Sutures are removed in 1 week. Most patients notice improvement within 2-3 weeks after the swelling improves, with full results around 3-4 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Discover answers to your most pressing questions about our treatments, and the benefits of our advanced therapies at Yang Facial Plastic Surgery.
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A good candidate for a lip lift is someone with an elongated upper lip, limited visibility of the upper teeth when smiling, or a desire to improve the proportion between the upper lip and the rest of the face.
As we age, the distance between the base of the nose and the upper lip can gradually increase, making the upper lip appear thinner or less defined. Some younger patients naturally have a longer upper lip and may desire a more balanced appearance.
Lip lift surgery is generally appropriate for individuals with realistic expectations who want a permanent improvement in upper lip proportions rather than temporary volume enhancement.
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A lip lift is a surgical procedure that shortens the distance between the base of the nose and the upper lip, creating greater upper lip show and potentially increasing visible vermilion.
Lip fillers use injectable products, typically hyaluronic acid, to temporarily increase lip volume, improve definition, and enhance lip shape.
A lip lift changes the underlying anatomical proportions of the upper lip, whereas fillers primarily add volume. Patients with an elongated upper lip may benefit more from a surgical lip lift than from repeated filler treatments.
The appropriate approach depends on lip anatomy, facial proportions, and individual aesthetic goals.
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A subnasal bullhorn lip lift is a surgical technique that removes a carefully measured strip of skin immediately beneath the base of the nose.
The incision follows the natural contours of the nasal base and is designed to be concealed within the transition between the nose and upper lip. Removing this skin shortens the upper lip and elevates the central and lateral portions of the upper lip, depending on the surgical design.
The procedure can improve upper lip proportions, increase visible vermilion, and create greater visibility of the upper teeth when smiling.
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A lip lift can increase the visibility of the upper teeth at rest and when smiling by shortening the distance between the nose and upper lip.
The degree of change depends on the original upper lip length, tooth position, lip mobility, and the amount of skin removed during surgery.
Careful surgical planning is important to avoid excessive shortening or an unnatural appearance. The goal is to achieve balanced upper lip proportions while preserving natural lip movement and expression.
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A lip lift requires an incision beneath the nose, so a permanent scar is expected. However, the incision is strategically positioned along the natural contours of the nasal base to make it as inconspicuous as possible.
Scar appearance varies depending on individual healing characteristics, skin type, surgical technique, and postoperative care. Most scars gradually mature and become less noticeable over several months.
Following postoperative instructions and appropriate scar care can help optimize healing.
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Most patients require approximately 1–2 weeks of initial recovery following lip lift surgery.
Swelling, tightness, and mild bruising around the upper lip are common during the first several days. Sutures are generally removed or managed according to the surgical technique, often within approximately one week.
The incision continues to mature over several months, and final scar appearance may take 6–12 months or longer to develop.
We Can’t Wait to See You
Your face deserves expert care and a treatment plan that feels made for you.
Let’s take the next step together.