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Surgical Lip Lift

A lip lift is a surgical procedure that shortens the space between the upper lip and the base of the nose, altering the position of the upper lip. This may be performed for people seeking a change in the lip’s shape or position in relation to surrounding facial features.
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Surgical Lip Lift Sydney

A lip lift is a surgical procedure that shortens the space between the upper lip and the base of the nose. This changes the position of the upper lip and may alter how it appears in relation to surrounding facial structures. The procedure can also increase the amount of the pink section of the lip (vermilion) that is visible.

People may consider a lip lift for various reasons. The surgery involves removing a small strip of skin below the nose and repositioning the skin so the upper lip sits slightly higher. The specific changes that can be achieved depend on each person’s facial structure, skin characteristics, and healing process..

How does a lip lift work to adjust the contours of the lips?

  • Change in Upper Lip Position: A lip lift can alter how far the upper lip projects, which may change its overall contour.
  • Shortening of the Philtrum: The procedure reduces the distance between the base of the nose and the upper lip, which can change how the upper lip relates to surrounding features.
  • Increased Visibility of Teeth: Elevating the position of the upper lip may cause more of the upper teeth to be visible when speaking or when the mouth is slightly open.
  • Effect on Facial Proportions: By altering the upper lip’s position, the procedure may change how the lips fit in with the rest of the face.
  • Changes in Lip Shape: The procedure can modify the curvature or outline of the upper lip.
  • Increased Vermilion Show: In some cases, more of the pink portion of the lip (vermilion) is visible after surgery, which can give the impression of a fuller lip.

It’s important to remember that every individual is unique and so too are their needs and desired outcomes for cosmetic surgery. If you’re considering a procedure, it’s essential to have a comprehensive consultation with one of our experienced surgeons. They can help you understand whether you’re a suitable candidate and what you can realistically expect from the surgery. The information provided here is meant to help guide you, but it’s not a replacement for professional medical advice. Always organise a consultation for personalised advice.

If you are concerned about the way you look or are thinking about cosmetic surgery for confidence reasons, there are alternatives. Talking to a counsellor or psychologist may help you overcome your concerns about your appearance.

What to Expect

Consultation

The first step in the lip lift process is a consultation with the surgeon. During this appointment, your medical history, current lip structure, and the distance between your upper lip and nose will be reviewed. The surgeon will also examine the size and shape of your lips. This consultation provides an opportunity to discuss the procedure in detail, raise any questions, and talk about any concerns you may have.

Number and type of consultation
It is a requirement under the law, that a patient seeking cosmetic surgery must have at least two pre-operative consultations. The patient’s first consultation must be with the medical practitioner who will perform the surgery or another registered health practitioner who works with the medical practitioner who will perform the surgery (not a patient advisor or an agent). At least one of the two consultations must be in person with the medical practitioner who will perform the surgery. Other consultations can be in person or by video.

When consent can be given
A patient must not be requested to sign consent forms at their first consultation and cannot consent to cosmetic surgery until they have had an in-person consultation with the medical practitioner who will perform the surgery. The decision to have the surgery (provision of informed consent) must be made at a consultation with the medical practitioner who will perform the procedure (in person or by video).

Cooling-off Period
There must be a cooling-off period of at least seven days after the patient has had two consultations and given informed consent (signed consent forms), before the surgery can be booked or a deposit paid.

Preparation

Once a surgical plan has been agreed upon, you will be given instructions to help you prepare for the procedure. These may include guidance on diet, smoking and alcohol use, the use of certain medications or supplements, and steps for maintaining oral hygiene before surgery.

Surgery

A lip lift typically takes less than an hour and is usually performed under local anaesthesia. The procedure involves making a small incision at the base of the nose. A small strip of skin is removed, and the upper lip is repositioned. The incision is then closed with sutures, which may be removed at a later date or may dissolve on their own.
  • Surgery Time
    1 hour
  • Hospital Time
    Day procedure

Recovery

After the procedure, you will be monitored for a short period before going home. In most cases, an overnight hospital stay is not required. Swelling, bruising, and some discomfort are common and may begin to subside after several days.

Many people are able to resume non-strenuous daily activities within a few days, while more physically demanding activities are generally avoided for about a week. Follow-up appointments will be arranged to review healing and recovery.

Changes in the position and shape of the upper lip may be visible within a few weeks, once swelling reduces. However, it can take several months for the area to fully settle as the incision continues to heal.
  • Time off work
    1 week to 10 days
  • Cast Removal
    Sutures in for 7 to 10 days
  • Exercise
    4 to 6 weeks
  • Showering
    Sponge bath from day 2 with further guidance to be provided
  • Driving
    24 hours after general anaesthetic and not while taking prescribed pain relief. We also recommend checking with your CTA insurer as to the post surgery exclusion period.
  • Travel
    After 7 to 10 days for national and international
  • Full Recovery
    6 to 12 months for final results

Send an Enquiry

Want to ask a question or organisation a consultation?
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Dr Michael Zacharia

MBBS, FRACS, FAAFPS, ACCS
Dr Michael Zacharia is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons, Head and Neck (Otolaryngology) and practices in Facial Plastic Surgery. He is also an Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) physician and has completed over 8,000 procedures, with over 4,000 being Rhinoplasty. Combining the latest medical, surgical and health techniques, Dr Zacharia strives to deliver the best outcome for each and every one of his patients.
Learn more
Cosmetic Surgeon & ENT Specialist
MED0001178357

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Make an Enquiry

Get in touch today to organise a consultation or to find out more information.

Our team will give you a call to discuss your enquiry and we will then send you any relevant information via email.
You will need a GP referral for surgical procedures. AHPRA require all patients having a surgical cosmetic or medical procedure to have a GP referral. You can fax your referral to 02 8072 6824 or email office@drzacharia.com.au
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You will need a GP referral for surgical procedures. AHPRA require all patients having a surgical cosmetic or medical procedure to have a GP referral. You can fax your referral to 02 8072 6824 or email office@drzacharia.com.au

Considerations Before Cosmetic Surgery

While we aim to provide accurate information about the different surgical procedures available, it’s important to understand that the content provided here serves as a general guide only. The specifics of each surgery, including the procedure detailed above, can and will vary significantly from person to person, depending on their unique circumstances and physical characteristics.

Undergoing cosmetic surgery is a serious decision that requires ample thought, careful consideration, and meticulous planning. It should never be taken lightly or treated trivially, as it can have profound impacts on one’s lifestyle and wellbeing.

Recovery from cosmetic surgery, too, requires time, support, and proper aftercare. We strive to present realistic and transparent information about the recovery process, but individual experiences may vary. It is typical for recovery to involve certain services or requirements, such as the use of compression garments or receiving therapeutic massages. It also often necessitates significant lifestyle changes, which may include a period of absence from employment and temporary restrictions on certain activities.

In light of these considerations, we strongly encourage potential patients to engage in comprehensive discussions with their GP and our surgeons. The goal is to fully understand the implications, requirements, and likely outcomes of any chosen procedure, and to make informed decisions about their health and aesthetics.

For more information on preparing for cosmetic surgery visit health.gov.au/cosmeticsurgery

General risks and complications

  • Substantial Hemorrhage: This involves severe blood loss from the area that underwent surgery, which may necessitate additional medical interventions.
  • Susceptibility to Infection: Post-surgery, the risk of infection can rise, potentially requiring either antibiotic treatment or subsequent surgical interventions.
  • Allergic Responses: Patients may exhibit allergic reactions to medical materials such as sutures, dressings, or antiseptic solutions used during and after the procedure.
  • Hematoma Formation: This involves the development of a sizable clot of blood beneath the incision site, which may necessitate medical drainage.
  • Post-Surgical Discomfort: Patients may experience pain, bruising, and swelling in the area surrounding the surgical site.
  • Scar Development: There's a risk of developing keloids or hypertrophic scars, which are elevated, red, and thickened scars over the healed incisions. Though they can be bothersome and aesthetically displeasing, they don't pose a direct health threat.
  • Delayed Healing Process: Healing can be sluggish, especially in patients with pre-existing conditions like diabetes or those who smoke.
  • Anaesthesia Risks: Patients may experience short-term nausea following general anaesthesia, along with other potential risks associated with anaesthesia.

Lip lift surgery risks

  • Pain and Discomfort: Following lip lift surgery, patients may experience significant pain or discomfort, which will require proper pain management.
  • Risk of Infection: As with any surgical procedure, there's a possibility of postoperative infection, which could require further treatments.
  • Visible Scarring: Scarring is an inherent risk in any surgical procedure, including lip lifts. Despite the surgeon's efforts to minimise and strategically place incisions, some patients may develop noticeable scars.
  • Altered Sensation: The surgery carries a risk of temporary or permanent changes in lip sensation, including numbness or tingling.
  • Asymmetry: Despite the surgeon's best efforts, there's a risk that the surgery may result in asymmetric appearance of the lips.
  • Unsatisfactory Cosmetic Outcome: The aesthetic results of the surgery might not meet the patient's expectations, necessitating additional corrective procedures.
  • Impaired Lip Function: In some cases, the surgery could impair lip function, affecting speech, eating, or the ability to close the mouth completely.

Contact Facelift Plastic Surgery

Dr Zacharia
Level 1 /424 New South Head Road
Double Bay, NSW 2028

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  • Dr Michael Zacharia MED0001178357 - Otolaryngology
  • Dr Kenneth Brito MED0001680302 - General Practice
  • Dr Ahmed Alsultan MED0001647273 - General Practice
Disclaimer: Surgical and invasive procedures are not an exact science and they carry risks. Results vary with each patient depending on their age, health, weight, hormones and lifestyle. Please note that results are not permanent solutions and will change as your body changes over the years. After you consult with Team MZ, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner
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