Lip Lift in Minneapolis, MN

What is a Lip Lift?

A lip lift is a surgical procedure that shortens the distance between the nose and the top lip, or the area known as the philtrum.  Dr. Rocheford offers two basic types of lip lifts:

Upper Lip Lift:

This is a more common type of lip lift intended to increase the amount of pink tissue seen in the lips and expose the teeth more. It is a suitable option to create fuller and more youthful-looking lips.

Corner Lip Lift:

This procedure lifts the edges or the mouth to create a more pleasant expression. It is a good option for those who feel that they have a frown when resting.

Cost of a Lip Lift

Upper Lip Lift: $1,500

Corner Lip Lift: $500

The cost of per-operative physical appointments, lab tests, or medications is not included, nor is Dr. Rocheford’s consultation fee of $100. Consultation fees are deducted from the price of your surgery.

The final cost of your lip lift will vary depending on several factors, and the price listed above is a general estimate. Dr. Rocheford can give you a more specific cost estimate for your lip lift after a consultation.

Details Of Lip Lift Surgery:

• Surgery: Surgery can be completed under local anesthesia and should take no more than an hour. Lip lifts are performed on an outpatient basis.
• Discomfort: Mild. Anticipate 0-3 days requiring medication. Many patients recover with over-the-counter medications alone.
• Bruising and Swelling: 10-14 days. Keeping your head elevated and gently applying ice will reduce swelling and bruising.
• Stitches: Removed in 7-10 days.
• Make-up: May be worn in 3-5 days.
• Work: Many feel well enough to return to work within about three days, but visible side effects can prevent them from doing so.
• Presentation in Public: Most patients are presentable within a week.
• Exercise: May be resumed in 2 weeks.
• Final Result: Final results are noticeable within 2-3 weeks.

Who is a Good Candidate for a Lip Lift?

Common reasons why patients choose a lip lift include being concerned about not showing teeth when smiling, thin or flat lips, an unflattering longer space between the nose and upper lip, or downturned corners resulting in a frowning or unpleasant resting expression. Candidates also frequently choose a lip lift after feeling dissatisfied with results from lip fillers, or because they want more permanent results.

Those who have an insufficient amount of space between the nose and mouth (about 1.5 centimeters or less) are typically poor candidates for a lip lift. Patients should also share their health history, as conditions such as diabetes, blood clotting issues, or oral herpes may mean that lip lift surgery is not recommended for you.

The Lip Lift Procedure

A lip lift is a simple surgery that can often be performed in-office under local anesthesia or alongside other facial procedures. After marking the skin and administering anesthesia, Dr. Rocheford will remove a small portion of skin just below the nose or at the corners of the mouth, depending on your intended results. Incisions can then be closed with small sutures.

Lip Lift Recovery

After your lip lift, you can expect swelling and some soreness. Dr. Rocheford can prescribe pain medication if needed. Swelling will be at its worst a few days after the procedure, but will gradually resolve following the first week. You will be instructed to keep the incisions covered with antibacterial ointment to prevent infection. It is important to avoid strenuous activity or exercise for about two weeks after your surgery. Most lip lift patients see their results within about 2-3 weeks, though it can take up to 2-3 months for residual swelling or scarring to fade. Dr. Rocheford will monitor your healing progress during follow-up appointments.
Consultation Checklist