Upper lip shortening, also known as a lip lift, can reduce the distance between the nose and upper lip to improve facial proportions and create a more defined lip shape. At Funt Aesthetics, Dr. David K. Funt is a board-certified plastic surgeon and Fellow of the American College of Surgeons with extensive experience in facial anatomy and cosmetic rejuvenation.
As the face ages, the area between the nose and upper lip can appear longer, which may change the balance of the lower face. By removing a small amount of skin beneath the nose, Dr. Funt can elevate the upper lip and create a more proportionate appearance without adding volume.
What Can Upper Lip Shortening Improve?
Upper lip shortening is designed to improve the position and shape of the upper lip rather than make it larger. The procedure may help:
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Reduce the distance between the nose and upper lip
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Improve overall facial proportions
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Make the Cupid’s bow more defined
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Increase the amount of upper tooth show at rest
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Create a more youthful-looking lip position
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Improve the contour of the upper lip
The amount of shortening is carefully planned so the result remains balanced with the nose, chin, and surrounding facial features.
How Upper Lip Shortening Enhances Facial Balance
Facial attractiveness depends heavily on proportion. When the space between the nose and upper lip becomes longer, the lower face may appear less balanced.
A lip lift shortens this distance and slightly rolls the upper lip outward, which can make the lip border and Cupid’s bow more visible. It may also allow a small amount of the upper front teeth to show when the lips are at rest, which can contribute to a more youthful appearance.
Unlike dermal fillers, upper lip shortening changes lip position rather than adding volume.
How Is Upper Lip Shortening Performed?
Upper lip shortening is an outpatient procedure that typically takes about an hour. Local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia may be used depending on the surgical plan and patient needs.
During the procedure, Dr. Funt makes a small incision beneath the nose and removes a carefully measured strip of skin. The upper lip is then elevated and the incision is closed with sutures.
Because the incision follows the natural contour beneath the nose, the resulting scar is placed in a relatively discreet location.
Upper Lip Shortening Recovery and Results
Swelling, tenderness, and tightness are expected during the first several days after surgery. Cold compresses and prescribed or recommended pain medication can help manage discomfort.
Sutures are removed once the incision has healed sufficiently, and most patients can gradually return to normal activities as swelling improves. The scar beneath the nose may initially appear pink or noticeable but typically softens and fades over time.
Results become more natural as swelling resolves and the upper lip settles into its new position.
Why Choose Funt Aesthetics for Upper Lip Shortening?
Upper lip shortening is a small-area procedure where millimeters matter, so precise knowledge of facial proportion is especially important. Dr. David K. Funt has extensive experience in facial anatomy and has taught anatomy-focused courses related to cosmetic treatments for other medical professionals. His background in both surgical and nonsurgical facial rejuvenation gives him a detailed understanding of how the lips relate to the nose, teeth, chin, and surrounding features. Dr. Funt has also lectured nationally and internationally and has published in peer-reviewed medical journals on aesthetic topics.
For upper lip shortening, that depth of facial expertise supports careful planning of the amount of skin removed, scar placement, and lip position so the change enhances the face without looking exaggerated or disconnected from the patient’s natural features.
Explore Upper Lip Shortening in Long Island & Nassau County, NY
Upper lip shortening can reduce the distance between the nose and lip, enhance the Cupid’s bow, and create a more balanced lower face. Funt Aesthetics provides individualized lip lift planning for patients throughout Long Island and Nassau County, NY. To discuss your goals and learn whether upper lip shortening is right for you, call 516-295-0404 to schedule a consultation with Funt Aesthetics.
