Enhance your facial balance and achieve a youthful, defined smile with a permanent lip lift—an effective solution for elongated upper lips and lost lip definition.
A lip lift is a minor plastic-surgery procedure that shortens the distance between the nose and upper lip, creating a fuller, more defined mouth and a youthful appearance.
As we age, the upper lip tends to lengthen and lose volume, altering facial balance and reducing tooth show when smiling. A lip lift offers a permanent solution, unlike temporary fillers, and has become increasingly popular among patients seeking natural-looking results. In Türkiye, high-quality care combined with cost-effective pricing attracts many international patients each year.
This guide covers everything you need to know about lip lift Turkey, from techniques and benefits to costs, recovery, and how to choose the right surgeon.
What is a Lip Lift?
Lip lift surgery is a type of cosmetic surgery performed to improve the appearance of the upper lip. The distance between the base of the nose and the upper part of the upper lip (the philtrum) is shortened. With this procedure, the lip is lifted and the pink lip tissue becomes more visible, creating a fuller appearance.
Lip lift surgery is different from lip augmentation or lip implants using fillers. The surgical operation changes the position and shape of the upper lip.
Lip lift surgery, which is a permanent solution, is usually recommended for patients who have lip elongation due to aging or those who want a more balanced facial profile.
Effects of Lip Lift
A lip lift produces both aesthetic and structural changes in the upper lip and surrounding area. The main effects include:
Shortened philtrum: The vertical space between the nose and upper lip becomes shorter, enhancing facial balance and proportion.
Increased lip show: More of the upper lip’s pink (vermilion) area is visible, creating a fuller appearance without adding volume.
Lifted lip corners (in some techniques): Certain lip-lift types subtly elevate the mouth corners, improving facial expression.
Enhanced tooth show: The upper teeth may be more visible when relaxed or smiling, contributing to a youthful look.
Permanent change: Unlike fillers, a lip lift’s effects do not diminish over time (though natural aging continues).
These changes result in a more defined, youthful upper-lip contour.
Types of Lip Lift Surgery
Different techniques are tailored to anatomical features and aesthetic goals:
Bullhorn (Subnasal) Lip Lift
A strip of skin beneath the nose is removed and the upper lip is lifted. The scar hides in the nostril creases.
Corner (Smile) Lip Lift
Targets outer mouth corners—ideal for down-turned lips, creating a more pleasant expression.
Italian Lip Lift
Uses two small incisions beneath each nostril for a subtle lift with minimal scarring.
Direct Lip Lift
Removes a strip of skin above the vermilion border for pronounced lip show; may leave a more visible scar.
Central Lip Lift
Removes skin directly below the nose’s center, focusing on the central lip area.
Lip Lift Benefits
Enhanced lip definition without fillers
Balanced facial proportions by shortening the philtrum
Improved smile aesthetics with greater tooth show
Long-lasting, natural-looking results
Often reduces future need for fillers
Who Is a Suitable Candidate?
Elongated philtrum
Desire for a fuller-looking upper lip without added volume
Age-related lip changes
Good overall health and non-smokers (or willing to quit)
Realistic expectations
A detailed consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon is essential.
Lip Lift Surgery Procedure
The operation is usually performed under local anesthesia in 30–60 minutes:
Anesthesia: Local—or local with light sedation.
Marking the incision: Typically bullhorn-shaped beneath the nose.
Skin excision: A thin strip of skin is removed.
Tissue elevation and closure: Lip is lifted; layered sutures minimize scarring.
Immediate care: Brief monitoring; home the same day.
Preparing for Surgery
Medical assessment and medication review
Pause blood thinners/supplements as advised
Stop smoking 2–4 weeks prior; avoid alcohol several days before
Fast 6–8 hours if sedation is planned
Arrive makeup-free and arrange transport/home rest
Consultation Expectations
Medical history and facial evaluation
Standardized photographs
Discussion of goals and recommended technique
Risk, recovery, and Q&A
Lip Lift Scarring
Scars are generally well hidden and fade within 3–6 months when aftercare instructions are followed.
Lip Lift Cost
Location
Average Cost (€)
United States
3,000 – 6,500
United Kingdom
2,500 – 5,500
Germany
2,800 – 5,000
France
2,500 – 4,800
Netherlands
2,700 – 5,200
Türkiye
1,200 – 2,500
Why Türkiye Stands Out
Cost efficiency
Experienced, internationally trained surgeons
Accredited clinics with modern technology
Robust medical-tourism support
Lip Lift Before & After
See our gallery for real patient results and transformations.
Lip Lift Recovery
First Week
Swelling peaks at 2–3 days
Mild discomfort; managed with pain relief
Sutures removed after 5–7 days
Weeks 2–4
Scar starts flattening
Light activities resume; avoid heavy exercise
Long Term
Final results in 1–2 months; scar matures over several months
Assoc. Prof. Ahmet Hamdi Sakarya, a leading Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgeon with Care in Turkey, specializes in innovative aesthetic solutions.
Non-Surgical Alternatives
Lip Fillers
Hyaluronic-acid fillers add volume and contour but are temporary.
Fat Grafting
Uses autologous fat for longer-lasting, but not permanent, volume.
Assoc. Prof. Ahmet Hamdi Sakarya, a leading Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgeon with Care in Turkey, specializes in innovative aesthetic solutions.
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