Subnasal Lip Lift: Shorten a Long Upper Lip and Show More Smile
Medically reviewed by the medical team at Guthrie Facial Plastic Surgery
Key Points
- A subnasal lip lift is a surgical procedure that shortens the space between the nose and upper lip.
- It repositions the lip tissue you already have rather than adding volume, which sets it apart from lip fillers.
- Many patients notice more shape at the cupid's bow and more upper teeth showing when they smile.
- Most patients go home the same day, and swelling usually improves within 7 to 10 days.
- Guthrie Facial Plastic Surgery in Brentwood, TN offers subnasal lip lift surgery and can help you compare it with other lip options.
Do you notice your upper lip looks longer than it used to? Or that you show fewer teeth when you smile? Many people see these changes with age. The upper lip can thin, flatten, and turn inward, and the space between the nose and lip can seem to grow. For some people, this changes how they feel in photos and when they talk or smile.
A subnasal lip lift is a surgical option for this concern. It shortens the distance between your nose and upper lip. Lip fillers are a common alternative, so it helps to understand how the two options differ before you decide.
This guide explains what a subnasal lip lift does, who may be a good candidate, what recovery looks like, and how it compares with lip fillers. At Guthrie Facial Plastic Surgery in Brentwood, TN, Dr. Ashley Guthrie offers this procedure.
What Is a Subnasal Lip Lift?
A subnasal lip lift shortens the area between your nose and upper lip. This area is called the philtrum. When the philtrum is long, the upper lip can look like it is slipping away from the nose. Over time, the lip can also lose its shape and turn inward.
During the procedure, the surgeon makes a small incision at the base of the nose, where it meets the upper lip. The incision follows the natural contour of that area. A small, measured strip of skin beneath the nose is removed, and the incision is closed. This lifts the upper lip.
Because the procedure works with the tissue you already have, it does not add volume. It changes the position and shape of the lip.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
A subnasal lip lift may be worth discussing if you:
- Have a long space between your nose and upper lip, often described as more than about 15 millimeters
- Want to show more of your upper teeth when you smile or speak
- Notice that your upper lip has thinned or turns inward with age
- Want a lasting change instead of repeat treatments
- Are in good overall health and have realistic expectations
How Is a Subnasal Lip Lift Done?
The procedure is an outpatient surgery done under local anesthesia, with or without sedation. You go home the same day. Surgery usually takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on your case and whether other procedures are done at the same time.
Your visit starts with a consultation, where Dr. Guthrie plans the lift, measures the area, and talks with you about your goals. On the day of surgery, the area is numbed. The incision is made, the strip of skin is removed, and the lip is closed to lift it.
Recovery After a Subnasal Lip Lift
Recovery is usually simple. Most patients describe discomfort that can be managed with prescribed or over-the-counter medication.
The First Week
Swelling and possible bruising are common for about 7 to 10 days. Sutures are usually removed about 5 to 7 days after surgery. Rest with your head raised, and follow the aftercare instructions you receive from the office.
Returning to Normal Activity
Most patients return to work and social activities within 1 to 2 weeks. The lip continues to settle and refine for several weeks after that.
Final Results
Changes can be seen soon after surgery, but swelling can hide them at first. Final results are usually visible after 2 to 3 months, as swelling goes down. The incision sits at the base of the nose, where it is well concealed and typically fades significantly within months.
Subnasal Lip Lift vs. Lip Fillers
Lip fillers and a subnasal lip lift can both change the look of the upper lip, but they work in different ways.
How Fillers Work
Fillers are injected to add volume. The results are temporary, so repeat treatments are needed to keep the look. Fillers mainly add volume to the lips. They do not shorten the distance between the nose and lip, and their effect on how many teeth show when you smile is limited.
How a Subnasal Lip Lift Works
The lift is a one-time surgical procedure that changes the position and shape of the upper lip. It addresses the length of the philtrum, which fillers do not change.
Which Option Fits Your Goals?
If your main concern is adding a little volume for a short time, fillers may be worth discussing. If your concern is a long upper lip, a thinning lip that turns inward, or limited tooth show, a subnasal lip lift may be a better fit. Dr. Guthrie can also talk with you about other surgical options, such as fat transfer for volume in other areas of the face, and whether they fit your goals.
Schedule Your Consultation in Brentwood, TN
Guthrie Facial Plastic Surgery is located at 1001 Health Park Drive, Suite 420, Brentwood, TN 37027. To talk through whether a subnasal lip lift fits your goals, call (615) 880-9500 or visit drashleyguthrie.com to schedule your consultation.
A subnasal lip lift is often considered cosmetic, so insurance may not cover it. Call the office at (615) 880-9500 to ask about your situation.
Topic FAQs
What is a subnasal lip lift?
It is a surgical procedure that shortens the space between your nose and upper lip. It repositions the lip tissue you already have to change the length and shape of the upper lip.
Does a subnasal lip lift add lip volume?
No. It repositions the tissue you already have rather than adding volume. Fillers are the option that adds volume, and their results are temporary.
Is a subnasal lip lift better than lip fillers?
It depends on your goals. Fillers mainly add temporary volume. A subnasal lip lift is a one-time surgery that changes the length and position of the upper lip.
How long does a subnasal lip lift take?
The procedure usually takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on your case and any other procedures done at the same time.
How long is recovery from a subnasal lip lift?
Swelling and possible bruising usually last about 7 to 10 days. Most patients return to work within 1 to 2 weeks, and final results are usually visible after 2 to 3 months.
Will the scar be visible?
The incision is at the base of the nose, where it is well concealed. The scar typically fades significantly within months.
Is a subnasal lip lift an outpatient procedure?
Yes. Most patients go home the same day, under local anesthesia with or without sedation.
Who is a good candidate for a subnasal lip lift?
People in good overall health with realistic expectations, especially those with a long space between the nose and upper lip or a thinning upper lip. Dr. Guthrie will confirm your candidacy during your consultation.
Practice FAQs
Where is Guthrie Facial Plastic Surgery located?
The practice is located at 1001 Health Park Drive, Suite 420, Brentwood, TN 37027.
How do I schedule a consultation?
Call (615) 880-9500 or visit drashleyguthrie.com to schedule your consultation.
Who performs subnasal lip lift surgery at the practice?
Dr. Ashley Guthrie performs this procedure at the Brentwood practice and will review your options during your consultation.
Can I see before-and-after photos?
Examples are available in the surgical gallery at drashleyguthrie.com. Additional photos can be reviewed during your consultation.
Does insurance cover a subnasal lip lift?
The procedure is often considered cosmetic, so coverage is not guaranteed. Call the office at (615) 880-9500 to ask about your situation.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this blog is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as, and should not be considered, medical advice. All information, content, and material available on this blog are for general informational purposes only. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The author and the blog disclaim any liability for the decisions you make based on the information provided. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
