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Lip aesthetics is a group of surgical procedures that change lip shape and proportion, such as a lip lift, lip reduction or corner lift. This page explains each option, the steps, who it suits, recovery, specific risks, how surgery compares with lip filler and other face procedures, and cost factors.
duration45 min
recovery5 days
resultTemporary
price₺15.000–40.000
Doctors in Türkiye (1)
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Lip Aesthetics guide
What is lip aesthetics?
Lip aesthetics refers to surgical procedures that permanently change the shape, size or position of the lips. The most common is the lip lift, which shortens the distance between the base of the nose and the upper lip. Other procedures include lip reduction and lifting the corners of the mouth.
With age, the upper lip tends to lengthen and thin, so less of the upper teeth show. A lip lift can reverse part of this change. Unlike filler, these procedures change the tissue itself rather than adding volume. For the wider group of face and neck procedures, see the face and neck aesthetics page.
Which lip procedures are available?
- Subnasal lip lift (bullhorn): A strip of skin is removed just under the nose to shorten and roll out the upper lip.
- Vermilion lip advancement: Skin is removed along the lip border to make the red part fuller and more defined. It leaves a scar along the lip line.
- Corner lift: Small triangles of skin at the mouth corners are removed to lift downturned corners.
- Lip reduction: Tissue is removed from the inner side of a large lip, leaving the scar inside the mouth.
How is a lip lift done?
A lip lift usually takes about 45 minutes to an hour and is mostly done under local anaesthetic.
- Measurement: The surgeon measures the distance from the nose to the lip and how much tooth shows at rest.
- Marking: A shape following the base of the nose is drawn.
- Anaesthesia: The area is numbed with local anaesthetic.
- Skin removal: The marked strip of skin is removed.
- Closure: Deep and fine skin stitches close the wound and hold the lip in its new position.
Who is lip aesthetics suitable for?
Lip surgery suits adults who want a lasting change in lip proportion, especially those with a long upper lip. Typical candidates include people with:
- A long distance between the nose and upper lip
- Little or no upper teeth showing at rest
- Thin lips that look flatter after filler has worn off repeatedly
- Downturned mouth corners
- Lips that feel too large for their face
A lip lift is less suitable when the upper lip is already short or when gum shows a lot when smiling. Smoking and active cold sores need to be addressed before surgery.
What is recovery like after lip surgery?
Most people return to social activities within about five days to a week after a lip lift. Swelling is strongest in the first days and the lip may feel tight. Stitches are usually removed within about a week.
The scar is usually pink for a few months before fading. Talking and smiling feel stiff for a while. Eat soft food, keep the area clean and protect the scar from the sun.
What are the specific risks of lip aesthetics?
The specific risks of lip surgery relate to scarring and to how much tissue is removed.
- Visible scar: The scar under the nose or along the lip border can widen or stay red.
- Overcorrection: Removing too much can show too much tooth or make the lip look pulled.
- Asymmetry: One side can heal higher than the other.
- Nostril change: A lip lift can slightly widen the nostril base.
- Altered sensation: Temporary numbness of the upper lip.
How does lip surgery compare with lip filler and other face procedures?
Lip surgery changes lip length or shape permanently, lip filler adds temporary volume, and a facelift treats the lower face rather than the lips.
| Option | Main effect | Recovery (usually) | How long it lasts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lip lift | Shorter upper lip, more lip and tooth show | About 5 to 7 days | Long-lasting |
| Lip reduction | Smaller lip | About 1 week | Long-lasting |
| Lip filler | Added volume | A few days | Usually 6 to 12 months |
| Facelift | Jowls and lower face | About 3 weeks | Many years |
What affects the cost of lip aesthetics?
The cost depends on the type of procedure and whether it is combined with others. Factors include:
- Lip lift, corner lift, vermilion advancement or reduction
- Local or general anaesthesia
- Combination with other facial procedures
- Scar care and follow-up visits
- The surgeon's experience and the city
The exact fee is given after the consultation. Choose a plastic surgeon or facial plastic surgeon with lip surgery experience. You can compare doctors who perform lip surgery by city in the doctor listings.
The information on this page is for general information only and is not medical advice. The suitable method for you can only be determined by a physician examination.
Lip Aesthetics Price Range
₺15.000 – ₺40.000
Türkiye national average. City-by-city price table:
City-by-city price table →Lip Aesthetics Frequently Asked Questions
Is a lip lift permanent?
A lip lift gives a long-lasting change because skin is removed. The lip still ages gradually over the years. Results are usually much more lasting than filler.
Will a lip lift scar show?
The scar is placed in the natural crease under the nose. It is usually pink for some months and then fades. Visibility varies with skin type and healing.
Can I have lip filler after a lip lift?
Yes, some people add filler later for extra volume. Filler is usually delayed until the lip has fully healed. Your surgeon will advise on timing.
Does a lip lift change my smile?
A lip lift usually shows more upper teeth at rest and when smiling. The lip may feel stiff for a few weeks. Most people adapt as swelling settles.
Can lips be made smaller?
Yes, lip reduction removes tissue from the inner side of the lip. The scar sits inside the mouth. Swelling usually takes a few weeks to settle fully.