Lip Lift in McLean and Northern Virginia

Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Alex Mesbahi is pleased to offer lip lift surgery to his patients. At Mesbahi Plastic Surgery in McLean, VA, Washington, D.C., and Beverly Hills, CA, a lip lift is performed to enhance the definition of the upper lip. There are several different techniques that can be used, but regardless of the method, a small amount of tissue is removed from the space between the nose and the upper lip (philtrum) and tightened to create an elevated profile. This process increases the prominence of the upper lip to achieve a more voluminous contour. If you have a thin or low hanging upper lip, then this procedure can offer you stunning results for a sexy, alluring pout. Contact our office today to set up a consultation to learn more.

Thin lips are a natural result of aging, but you do not have to live with this concern forever. A lip lift enhances the volume and shape of your upper lip for a more youthful appearance. Patients choose to work with Mesbahi Plastic Surgery for the following reasons:

• Advanced techniques: Dr. Mesbahi has the experience and training needed to provide stunning results. You can feel confident that you are in good hands when you come to our office.
• Personalized care: We understand that each patient is unique. Dr. Mesbahi takes the time to get to know you and your goals before developing a personalized treatment plan.
• Natural results: Some procedures leave patients appearing "fake" or "worked on." A lip lift is known for its ability to create outcomes that look and feel natural.

Ideal candidates for a lip lift are in overall good health and wish to enhance the contours of their upper lip for greater definition. This procedure can be performed on men and women 18 years of age or older who desire a fuller but natural-looking pout. It is also an excellent option for those who desire long-lasting results. Prior to your procedure, Dr. Mesbahi will perform a full exam of your facial contours and discuss your aesthetic goals. From there, a custom treatment plan will be created to suit your unique needs.

Lip lift surgery is an outpatient procedure that uses general or local anesthesia and is typically performed in under an hour. Once you are prepped, Dr. Mesbahi will carve out a bullhorn-shaped strip of skin just below the base of the nose. The strip of skin is gently pulled away from the underlying tissue, elevated, and then sutured along the natural curves of the nostrils. This process elevates the upper lip and enhances its peaks (Cupid's bow) to provide a symmetrical profile. The result is a fuller-looking upper lip.

After a lip lift, most patients experience a mild pulling sensation for about 2 – 3 days and swelling for up to two weeks. These symptoms are normal and will subside as your lip heals and settles into its new position. Inflammation and discomfort can be eased with over-the-counter pain medication and/or a cold compress. After about one week, a follow-up appointment will be scheduled to remove the stitches. Any mild bruising or redness can be concealed with makeup. 

What about scarring?
Since the incision is made along the natural grooves of the nostrils, scarring will be nearly invisible. Many patients are generally surprised by the seamless results that lip surgery has to offer, and in the hands of an expert surgeon, like Dr. Mesbahi, you can rest assured that your outcomes will look natural.

Can I combine my lip lift with another procedure?
Yes. Many patients opt to include a skin rejuvenation treatment or cosmetic injectables with their lip lift. A combination of wrinkle relaxers and fillers can be incorporated to soften marionette lines or enhance fullness to the lips for an elevated allure. During your initial consultation, be sure to talk to Dr. Mesbahi about all of your cosmetic goals so he can build a custom treatment plan that meets your concerns.

How long will a lip lift last?
Results from a lip lift are long-lasting, which is why so many individuals prefer a surgical lift over temporary injectables. However, it does not stop the natural aging process. Over time, your skin may lose its tautness and your upper lip will eventually settle into a lower position.

Will my results look natural?
Yes. In many cases, lip lift surgery generally offers more natural-looking outcomes than injectable dermal fillers. With a lip lift, excess skin is removed and pulled tight for a fuller contour and to highlight the curves of the Cupid's bow. The larger the wedge, the greater the lift. With dermal fillers, there is a limited extent to which you can improve lip height. Fillers can provide a beautiful fullness, but in some cases, this level of projection is not preferred.

What kind of post-operative care is required after a lip lift?
Post-operative care involves following Dr. Mesbahi's instructions, attending follow-up appointments, and managing any discomfort with prescribed medications. Proper care ensures a smooth recovery and optimal results.

Are there nonsurgical alternatives to a lip lift?
Nonsurgical options like dermal fillers can provide temporary enhancement of lip volume and shape. However, they do not achieve the same permanent results as a surgical lip lift.

Are you tired of the temporary results of dermal fillers or using lipstick to enhance the overall contour and fullness of your lips? With a surgical lip lift, Dr. Mesbahi can build a custom treatment plan that accentuates your upper lip for a gorgeous and natural pout. Contact Mesbahi Plastic Surgery in McLean, VA, Washington, D.C., or Beverly Hills, CA to see how this cosmetic procedure can help you achieve your dream lips.