Lip Lift

A lip lift offers more than just aesthetic enhancement—it can refine facial balance, improve lip definition, and create a more youthful appearance. Often performed with face and neck lift surgery, a lip lift can also be performed alone to improve the balance of the upper lip. This procedure helps individuals achieve a naturally fuller upper lip while enhancing overall facial harmony. Among the most common benefits:

• Shortens the space between the nose and upper lip for a more proportionate look
• Increases the visibility of the upper teeth when smiling, enhancing expression
• Creates a more defined Cupid’s bow and improves lip symmetry
• Boosts confidence by restoring a refreshed, youthful lip contour

Ideal candidates for a lip lift are individuals who want to enhance the shape and proportion of their upper lip, achieving a more youthful and balanced appearance. Some people naturally have a longer upper lip or notice changes due to aging, which can reduce the visibility of their teeth when smiling. Candidates should be in good overall health, be nonsmokers, and have realistic expectations about the outcome. If you feel your upper lip lacks definition or you rely on fillers for volume but want a permanent solution, a lip lift may be the right choice to refine your facial harmony.

On the day of your lip lift surgery, you can expect a welcoming and professional environment where every detail is carefully managed. When you arrive at Ottawa Plastic Surgery, our team will ensure you feel comfortable and confident about your procedure. The lip lift can be performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on factors such as patient preference or whether it’s being combined with other facial procedures. Both options allow for precise adjustments to enhance the shape and balance of the upper lip while maintaining patient comfort.

The procedure itself is relatively quick, typically taking about 1 to 1.5 hours. During this time, Dr. Cormier carefully refines the upper lip to create a natural, balanced result tailored to your features. After the surgery, you’ll spend a short time in a private recovery area before returning home the same day with clear, detailed aftercare instructions. Our team will ensure you have everything you need for a smooth recovery and will be available to support you throughout the healing process.

Recovery from a Lip Lift is often smoother than expected, especially with the expert care provided by our surgical team. In the first few days, you’ll likely experience swelling, mild bruising, and tenderness around the incision site, but this is completely normal and manageable with rest, cold compresses, and any prescribed medication. Keeping your head elevated and avoiding excessive facial movements can help minimize swelling and promote healing.

You’ll return for a follow-up appointment 5 to 7 days after surgery, where Dr. Cormier will assess healing progress and provide additional guidance. During this time, it’s important to avoid strenuous activities, excessive sun exposure, and facial treatments that could interfere with recovery. Most patients take about 7 to 10 days off from work or daily routines, depending on their lifestyle and comfort level.

To ensure optimal healing, you’ll want to avoid heavy chewing, drinking from straws, and excessive lip movement for 4 to 6 weeks. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor progress and ensure the incision heals properly. By the second or third week, swelling will have significantly reduced, and many patients will begin to see the refined, natural-looking results they envisioned. The boost in confidence and facial harmony makes the recovery process well worth it.