For some, the transition from non-surgical procedures such as filler or neuromodulators like Botox® can be intimidating. They may have been primarily cared for at a MedSpa. The thought of undergoing surgery with a facial plastic surgeon may feel like a huge leap. They may associate facial plastic surgery with anesthesia, negatively. They may assume they need to undergo a facelift if they are to address their upper lip.
The purpose of this blog post is to reassure patients that a lip lift can be a transformative and rejuvenating surgical procedure for those seeking effective, natural appearing surgical results without the need for a larger procedure requiring sedation or general anesthesia. This blog post is in direct response to MedSpa injectors inquiring into affordable surgical options for their patients.
A Lip Lift Has a Much Lower Barrier to Entry Than Other Surgical Procedures
A surgical lip lift has a much lower barrier to entry than other facial plastic surgery procedures. However, it is a precision surgical procedure performed by Dr. Jeffrey Harmon, a fellowship trained, double board-certified facial plastic surgeon who is an expert in the lip lift procedure. That is why so many MedSpas refer patients to him.
A lip lift addresses multiple aspects of facial aging in the lip that filler and a non-surgical lip flip with Botox® and other similar medications do not. For example, a lip lift treats lengthening of the upper lip, a loss of natural tooth show when the lips are relaxed, thin red upper lips and – specifically with a corner lip lift – a steep drop off of the red lip with involuted skin at its lateral extent. The last feature can give the mouth a less happy, more frowny disposition at rest.
The procedure focuses on the upper lip and the surrounding skin. As a result, no sedative medications, including general anesthesia, are required for it. Instead, only local/injectable numbing anesthesia administered by Dr. Harmon is required. This anesthesia lasts for many hours after surgery, making what is already a generally very comfortable procedure remain comfortable long after leaving the office. There is also an option for oral anesthesia administered with a pill that can help patients relax during the procedure as well. Dr. Harmon often notices patients so comfortable that they fall asleep to relaxing background music while he works.
The above features of lip lift surgery change the calculus for many patients because of:
- Improved finances due to a lack of anesthesia fee
- No need for IV sedation medications for those who fear this type of anesthesia
- No need for IV sedation medication for those who are medically not a good candidate for this type of anesthesia
Even better, expected post-operative bruising and swelling as well as suture removal tend to be limited in severity and time with lip lift surgery.
A Consultation is Essential to Determine Candidacy for a Lip Lift
The decision about who is a good candidate is complex and depends on a thorough evaluation by Dr. Harmon during a consultation. Factors that help determine candidacy for a lip lift include, but are not limited to:
- Lip skin length
- Red upper lip height
- Visibility of red upper lip from the center out to the most lateral margins of the mouth
- Amount of tooth show – visible central incisors – when the lips are parted at rest, also known as in repose
Dr. Harmon’s approach to lip lift surgery reflects his general surgical philosophy . First, he considers every patient as unique and, therefore, requires a surgical approach tailored to their specific anatomy. For example, a patient may have a long upper lip but requires more conservative surgery due to some already present tooth show. Significant asymmetry in the upper lip demands specific surgical approach changes to improve this. Other patients may benefit from surgery that hides not only at the base of the nose – a subnasal lip lift – but also at the corners of the mouth – a corner lip lift. As important are the aesthetic goals of each patient which Dr. Harmon incorporates into planning every procedure.
For patients weighing their options, Dr. Harmon has written in depth on how a lip lift compares to lip filler and whether a non-surgical lip flip is worthwhile.
Book a Lip Lift Consultation in Cincinnati
Take the first step toward your aesthetic goals with a personalized lip lift consultation in Cincinnati, Ohio. Dr. Harmon will listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and guide you through your options. Schedule your consultation today and discover how expert care can make a difference.
Disclaimer
This blog post is for educational purposes only and does not constitute direct medical advice. It is essential that you have a consultation with a qualified medical provider prior to considering any treatment. This will allow you the opportunity to discuss any potential benefits, risks, and alternatives to the treatment.
Book Your Consultation
Take the first step toward enhancing your natural beauty by scheduling a personalized consultation with Dr. Jeffrey Harmon. As a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon trained by the pioneer of the extended deep plane facelift, Dr. Harmon offers expert guidance and care. Whether you're considering surgical or non-surgical options, our team is here to support your journey to renewed confidence.