What Are the Different Types of Lip Lifts?
A lip lift is a cosmetic procedure designed to enhance the appearance of the lips by shortening the distance between the nose and edge of the red lip margin. There are several types of lip lifts, each tailored to achieve specific aesthetic goals and address individual needs. Understanding the different types of lip lifts can help you make an informed decision about which procedure is best suited for you. Here are the main types of lip lifts:
1. Bullhorn Lip Lift (Subnasal Lip Lift)
The bullhorn lip lift, also known as the subnasal lip lift, is one of the most popular types of lip lifts. This procedure involves making an incision along the base of the nose in the shape of a bullhorn. By removing a small strip of skin and lifting the upper lip, this technique shortens the distance between the nose and the lip, creating a more pronounced and youthful pout. The bullhorn lip lift is highly effective in increasing the vermilion (the pink part of the lips) and providing a natural-looking enhancement.
This is the preferred technique by Dr. Saxon since it creates a more natural shape to the lip margin. Since Saxon MD is located in Austin, however, we like to call this technique the “Longhorn Lip Lift.”
2. Direct Lip Lift (Gull Wing Lip Lift)
The direct lip lift, also known as the gullwing lip lift, involves making an incision along the upper lip’s vermilion border. This technique directly lifts the upper lip, creating a more defined and fuller appearance. While this method can produce dramatic results, the incision placement means that there may be more visible scarring compared to other types of lip lifts.
The direct lip lift is often chosen by individuals looking for significant enhancement in the shape and volume of their upper lip.
3. Italian Lip Lift
The Italian lip lift is similar to the bullhorn lip lift but with a slight variation in incision placement. This procedure involves making two smaller incisions at the corners of the nose, rather than one continuous incision. The Italian lip lift does not lift the central portion of the lip called the Cupid’s bow. Most will need this section of their lip to be lifted and would not be a good candidate.
This technique can be utilized for revision surgery where the central portion of the lip was lifted too aggressively to balance the proportions of the lip shape.
4. Cupid Lift
A Cupid lift was popularized by Dr. Ben Talei. This technique is essentially the same as a traditional bullhorn lip lift but with some subtle modifications. Different markings are made on the upper lip based on predetermined measurements. Publication of this technique made it easier for surgeons without a lot of experience in lip lifts to learn to have reproducible and consistent results.
5. Corner Lip Lift
The corner lip lift, also known as the smile lift, targets the outer corners of the lips. This procedure involves making small incisions at the corners of the mouth and lifting the skin to create a more upturned and cheerful appearance. The corner lip lift is particularly beneficial for individuals with downturned lips, as it helps to lift the corners and create a more youthful and inviting smile.
This technique can be performed alone or in combination with other lip lift procedures for a comprehensive enhancement.
6. Endonasal Lip Lift
An endonasal lip lift is similar to a bullhorn lip lift, but with a key difference: a portion of the incision transitions inside the nose, partially hiding the scar. While this approach can reduce visible scarring, it comes with a significant downside. By disrupting the nasal sill—the area where the nostril meets the upper lip—it can distort the normal anatomy of the nose, potentially affecting its shape and symmetry.
Due to these risks, the endonasal lip lift is often less favored compared to other techniques that better preserve the natural structure of the nose.
7. Extended Perialar Lip Lift
An extended perialar lip lift is a technique that involves extending the incision around the entire nostril as well as elevating the skin of the entire upper lip all the way to the nasolabial folds and vermillion border. The aim is to be able to lift the corners of the mouth and narrow the width of the lip as well as reduce the depth of the nasolabial folds. This technique has much more extensive downtime and risk of scarring compared to a subnasal lip lift.
Which type of lip lift is right for you?
Choosing the right type of lip lift depends on your individual aesthetic goals and the specific characteristics of your lips. Whether you’re looking for a subtle enhancement or a more dramatic transformation, there’s a lip lift technique that can help you achieve the look you desire.
Seeing Dr. Saxon for a consultation will determine the best approach for your unique needs. With the right procedure, you can enjoy fuller, more youthful lips and a boost in your overall confidence.
