Extended Lip Lift: A Permanent Technique for a Balanced Face and a Natural Smile

Extended Lip Lift

The Extended Lip Lift is an advanced surgical technique that shortens the philtrum (lip–nose distance), creating a more defined, lifted, and attractive upper lip. It is the modernized version of the classical bullhorn lip lift and provides more satisfying and longer-lasting results both aesthetically and functionally.
It is particularly effective for individuals with a long upper lip, insufficient tooth show when smiling, or a tired–dull facial expression.

Why Extended Lip Lift?

1. Better Scar Quality

In the classical lip lift, the orbicularis oris muscle is not addressed. After surgery, lip movement pulls on the incision line, causing the scar to become more noticeable.
 In the Extended Lip Lift, the orbicularis oris muscle is reshaped, reducing tension on the incision line and significantly improving scar quality.

2. Prevention of philtrum lengthening over time

The classical technique removes only skin. Without muscular support, the upper lip may gradually descend, returning to its original length.
 In the Extended Lip Lift, muscular support ensures that the lip–nose distance remains stable and long-lasting.

What Makes the Extended Lip Lift Different?

The Extended Lip Lift not only removes skin but also includes muscle remodeling and enhanced philtral support. As a result:

• The lip–nose distance is shortened more permanently,
• Scar visibility is significantly decreased,
• The upper lip gains a more natural and aesthetic curve,
• The lower third of the face becomes more proportional,
• The smile appears fresher and more dynamic.

Overall, the face gains a more balanced, harmonious, natural, and youthful expression.

Who Is a Good Candidate for an Extended Lip Lift?

• Individuals with a philtrum that is longer than average,
• Those who desire a more defined, lifted, and attractive upper lip,
• Patients whose lips have thinned or descended due to aging,
• Anyone seeking better balance and harmony in the lower facial proportions.

How Is an Extended Lip Lift Performed?

The procedure can be performed under local anesthesia, but when combined with other facial surgeries, it is often performed under general anesthesia.

1. Planning and Marking

A personalized design is drawn along the natural contours of the nasal base.

2. Minimal Incision and Skin Excision

A precise incision is created along the natural curve, and 3–7 mm of skin is removed.

3. Muscle Remodeling

The strongest component of the extended technique:
The muscle is reshaped and lifted to support the upper lip.
This provides long-lasting results and a natural projection.

4. Scar Refinement

The incision is hidden entirely under the nasal base.
Within 3–4 months, the scar becomes nearly invisible from a one-meter distance.

Recovery After Lip Lift

• Days 1–3: Normal swelling and bruising
• Days 7–10: Significant improvement, return to social life
• 1 month: Lip contour approaches its natural form
• 3–4 months: Scar visibility decreases markedly
• 6–12 months: Final, most natural appearance

Lip Lift or Lip Filler? Which One Is Better?

These two procedures are not alternatives to each other.

Lip Lift (Permanent -Structural Change)

• Shortens the philtrum
• Changes the lip angle and position
• Increases tooth show when smiling
• Improves lower facial proportions
• Permanent effect

Lip Filler (Temporary – Volume Only)

• Only adds lip volume
• Does not change anatomy
• Dissolves in 6–12 months

Filler is suitable for patients who are not candidates for a lip lift.

Can Lip Lift Be Performed on Patients With Previous Lip Fillers?

Yes, it can.
 However, ideally, fillers should be dissolved beforehand, as their gradual resorption can affect surgical planning.
 Experienced surgeons can adjust for remaining filler, but dissolving it ensures the most accurate result.

Aesthetic Changes After Extended Lip Lift

• A more lifted and defined upper lip
• Shortened philtrum and fresher appearance
• A more dynamic smile
• Better lower-face proportions
• Increased tooth show
• A more feminine and aesthetic lip contour

Conclusion

Extended Lip Lift not only shortens the philtrum but also reshapes the underlying structure, balancing the overall aesthetics of the lower face.
With muscle remodeling and refined scar management, the results are long-lasting and extremely natural.
For a younger, more attractive, and more dynamic facial expression, the Extended Lip Lift is one of the most effective modern techniques.