Lip Lift (Bullhorn Lift)

What a Surgical Lip Lift Changes

The operation focuses on the relationship between the nose, philtrum, upper lip, and teeth. It may be considered when:

• The distance between the nasal base and upper lip appears long.
• The upper lip turns inward or shows relatively little vermilion.
• Limited upper-tooth show is part of the patient’s concern.
• A patient wants surgical repositioning rather than injectable volume.

Lip Lift and Filler Are Not the Same

A lip lift shortens the philtrum and rotates or elevates the upper lip through surgery. Dermal filler adds injectable volume and can address different contour or asymmetry concerns without removing skin. One is not a substitute for the other in every patient, and injectable lip treatment is covered separately by the Beauty Department.

Consultation and Proportion Planning

Assessment considers philtrum length, upper-lip shape and movement, tooth show, nasal-base anatomy, facial proportions, skin and scar characteristics, previous treatment, medical history, medications, smoking, and the desired degree of change. The planned excision must remain proportionate to the anatomy and safe closure of the wound.

How the Bullhorn Lift Is Performed

A bullhorn-shaped area is measured and marked immediately below the nasal base. A narrow section of skin is removed, and the tissues are closed so the upper lip sits higher and the philtrum is shorter. The incision follows the contours beneath the nose, but a surgical scar remains and must be considered during planning.

Recovery and Scar Care

Early swelling, bruising, tightness, and temporary changes in sensation may occur. Wound care, reduced forceful chewing and facial movement, temporary limits on exercise, and protection from sun or heat may be advised. Follow-up guides suture management, scar care, and the gradual return to normal activity.

Risks and Realistic Expectations

Possible risks include bleeding, bruising, infection, delayed wound healing, persistent swelling, visible or raised scarring, asymmetry, and altered sensation. The procedure changes upper-lip position rather than creating injectable volume, and the final proportion is constrained by the nasal base, lip movement, skin, and safe tissue removal.

Related Facial Surgery Procedures

Other facial procedures address different anatomical regions and should be planned independently.