Lip lift CENTER FOR FACIAL PLASTIC SURGERY AT ENT SPECIALISTS
Lip lift
A lip lift is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to enhance the appearance of the upper
lip by shortening the distance between the upper lip and the base of the nose. The goal of a
lip lift is to create a more youthful and aesthetically pleasing appearance by increasing the
visibility of the upper lip, defining the vermilion border (the border between the red part of
the lip and the surrounding skin), and improving the overall balance of facial features.
The procedure involves the removal of a small amount of skin from the area just beneath
the nose. This removal of skin results in a lifting effect on the upper lip. The specific
technique and incision pattern can vary based on the patient's anatomy and the desired
outcome.
Here are key points regarding lip lift surgery:
Purpose: Lip lifts are often sought by patients concerned with facial aging, such as a
lengthened upper lip over time. Those desiring a more defined and youthful upper lip
may also consider this procedure.
Incision: Typically, a small incision is made at the junction of the nose and the upper lip
that heals usually well and is well hidden in the crease.
Tissue Removal: A very precise amount of skin is removed to lift the upper lip
symmetrically.
Healing: Some swelling and bruising can be expected initially. Full recovery may take a
few weeks, however the incision can remain red for months. Scar creams or ointments
are used to improve the appearance of the scar. Sometimes steroid (Kenalog) injections,
PRP or Botox are used to help improve the scar.
Results: The primary outcome is an increased visibility of the upper lip, creating a more
youthful appearance. The vermilion border may become more defined.
Customized procedure: The procedure is tailored to the individual's facial anatomy and
goals.
Combined Procedures: Lip lifts can be performed in conjunction with other facial
procedures for a comprehensive enhancement.
Longevity: Results are typically long-lasting, contributing to a sustained improvement in
lip aesthetics.
It's important for individuals considering a lip lift to consult with a qualified and experienced
facial plastic surgeon like Dr Georgescu. Dr DAN will assess your facial anatomy, discuss
expectations, and tailor the procedure to achieve the desired outcome while maintaining a
natural and harmonious appearance.
BEFORE THE SURGERY
From the time of your first consultation (whether on-line or in person) till the day of surgery you will have the opportunity to discuss with Dr Georgescu and his staff all your questions and concerns related to the surgical procedure, the preparation and the recovery. Make sure you fulfill all your financial obligations at least 2 weeks prior to surgery. Stop all anticoagulants (Eliquis, Pradaxa, Plavix, Coumadin, Warfarin), anti- inflammatory medication (Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Naproxen, Diclofenac, Indomethacin) and all vitamins and supplements (except for Calcium and Vit. D) two weeks prior to surgery, but only with the approval of your primary care doctor or cardiologist. Smokers need to stop smoking or vaping at least 4 months prior to surgery. Nicotine patches or gum are accepted. Make sure you fill your prescriptions before surgery, as you will not be able go to the pharmacy immediately after surgery. You need to make arrangements for someone to bring you to the surgery center and take you back home, as you will not be able to drive the day of surgery. You also need someone to stay with you for at least the first night after surgery.
THE DAY OF SURGERY
If your surgery is scheduled in the office, you can have a light meal before coming in.
Take your regular medication as usual. Avoid drinking coffee or alcohol on the day of
surgery.
Do not eat or drink anything past 10:00 PM the night before! If you need to take your
blood pressure or anxiety medication, do so with a sip of water when you wake up.
Make sure you arrive at the surgery center at the time indicated (our staff will call you
the day prior with the exact time you need to be there). Our surgery center staff will
greet you and make sure all the consent forms have been signed. Your companion can
either wait in our comfortable waiting area, where there is coffee, water and snacks, or
can return back home and we will call as soon as the surgery is over. You will be then
taken to your room where our nurses will place an IV and EKG electrodes. A urine
pregnancy test is performed on all pre-menopausal women. Then, you will meet in
person our anesthesiologist who will explain the anesthesia procedure. Most surgeries
are done under general anesthesia. Dr Georgescu will come and read to you the consent
form and answer any last-minute questions you may have. He will then do the skin
markings and may take some additional photographs. The bed will then be wheeled into
the operating room where the time out will be performed before you go to sleep. The
anesthesiologist will then give you IV medication that will allow you to fall asleep. At the
end of surgery, you will be taken to the recovery room where you will wake up with no
pain. We typically use ice-packs in recovery for 20 minutes to decrease swelling. You and
your companion will be shown in detail how to apply the ointments and how to vacuum
the drains. After approximately 1-2 hours you will be discharged to go home with your
companion. We will bring you to the car in a wheelchair. You will be given Dr
Georgescu’s personal cell number to call at any time if you have any questions or
concerns and Dr Georgescu will call you the night of surgery to make sure you are doing
well and following the instructions.
RECOVERY & RESULTS
Most patients take between 5 and 7 days off after lip lift surgery. Stitches dissolve or are
removed at 10 days. Bruising and swelling typically go away in about 2 weeks. Antibiotic
and pain medication may be prescribed for a few days. You will need to apply antibiotic
ointment on the incisions 4 times a day for 3 weeks.
Strenuous activity, such as golfing, swimming, tennis and weightlifting should be avoided
for 3 weeks. Walking is allowed the day after surgery. Light running and biking can be
resumed after 1 week. The hair can be dyed after one month. Makeup can be applied as
early as 2 weeks after surgery.
You will need to come back to the office the following day to ensure that you are healing
well. You will also be seen on days 7 and 14 followed by 1 month, 3 months and 6
months. However, Dr Georgescu is available to see you at any time if you have questions
or concerns.
Although most patients look really good at 6 weeks, they are only 25% healed at this
time. Full healing normally takes 6 months, at which time the numbness around the
incisions is typically resolved.
Seek Dr DAN’s Advice
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2122 NW 62nd ST, Ste 229 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309
