A lip lift is a surgical procedure designed to shorten the space between the upper lip and the base of the nose. It may be considered by individuals who would like to increase the amount of visible upper lip or adjust lip proportions. As with any surgical treatment, preparation, recovery, and having realistic expectations are essential parts of the decision-making process.
Below, we outline what to expect before and after a lip lift procedure, including the key steps involved and how to manage lip lift scars during recovery.
Steps Before and After a Lip Lift Procedure
Before Your Procedure
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Consultation: At Absolute Cosmetic, patients attend a consultation with a nurse and a doctor, followed by a discussion with our Patient Experience Manager. During these appointments, your anatomy, goals, and suitability will be assessed in detail.
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Medical History Review: Your practitioner will review your medical history to ensure the procedure is suitable for you.
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Photographs: Clinical photographs are taken for your medical file. These are used to track progress and assist with planning. These photos are never shared publicly without your consent. At Absolute Cosmetic, we follow a strict policy where only patients who have signed a photo release form have their images used on our website or other platforms.
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Consent and Pre-Operative Preparation: You will receive a detailed consent form and instructions, which may include advice on medications to avoid and when to cease smoking if applicable.
After Your Procedure
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Downtime: Most patients require a few days of rest, with swelling and bruising being common in the early stages.
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Follow-Up Appointments: You’ll return to clinic for suture removal and post-op checks to monitor healing and progress.
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Healing Expectations: Visible signs of healing typically improve in 1–2 weeks, with scar maturation continuing over several months.
Lip Lift Before and After Results
While before and after photos can be useful to understand the type of changes this procedure may achieve, results will differ based on individual anatomy and healing.
A surgical lip lift may:
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Increase the amount of pink upper lip visible at rest
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Create balance between the upper lip and the base of the nose
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Influence the overall shape and proportion of the lips and smile
During your consultation, your practitioner will discuss what changes may be suitable for your individual features and goals.
Managing Lip Lift Scarring
A common consideration is the appearance of a lip lift scar. The incision is typically placed at the base of the nose, where it can often be well-concealed after healing. As with any surgical incision, individual factors and healing responses will affect how visible the scar may be over time.
Tips for Scar Management
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Follow all post-operative care instructions provided by your Doctor.
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Avoid smoking, as it may impair healing
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Protect the area from sun exposure, particularly in the first few months
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Use any prescribed scar gels or ointments, as directed
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Attend follow-up appointments so your practitioner can monitor the healing process
If scarring becomes more visible or raised over time, further options such as laser treatment or topical therapies may be discussed at Absolute Cosmetic.
Thinking About a Lip Lift?
If you are considering a lip lift, understanding the pre- and post-operative process, as well as expected outcomes and scar care, is essential.
At Absolute Cosmetic, we are doctor-led and operate in fully licensed medical facilities across Perth. We are committed to supporting our patients before, during, and after their procedures.
Book a consultation or call (08) 9389 9099 to speak with our lovely reception team.
- General disclaimer:
The information provided is for informational purposes only and not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any medical decisions or undergoing treatments.
Patient outcomes can vary due to factors such as genetics, diet, age, exercise, lifestyle, weight, and overall health. It’s essential to understand that all invasive surgeries come with inherent risks and require a recovery period and specific care regimen.
Detailed information regarding surgical risks and complications is available on our website, but it is advisable to conduct thorough research and obtain a second opinion to ensure you are able to make an informed decision.
Please note that the information provided is general in nature and does not constitute medical advice or establish a doctor-patient relationship. Please be advised that surgical outcomes vary, from patient to patient, and comprehensive research is crucial before making any decisions.
ABSOLUTE COSMETIC, PERTH, W.A.
Operating out of five clinics across Perth, ABSOLUTE COSMETIC is a testament to the dedication and experience of Medical Director Dr. Glenn Murray and Director of Nursing Stephanie Murray. With over 20 years of full-time experience in aesthetic medicine under their belt, a holistic approach to aesthetic care includes a range of treatments, including non-surgical options to surgical procedures performed in our Class B Day Hospital, licensed by the WA Department of Health.
