Lip Shortening

What is lip shortening surgery?
In some people, the upper lip appears proportionally long and sagging due to structural reasons, while in others this occurs due to aging. The procedure in which tissue is removed from the upper lip to shorten the lip length is called lip shortening surgery.

What is the purpose of lip shortening surgery?
Since a long upper lip appearance is considered a sign of aging, the aim of upper lip shortening surgery is to shorten and lift the lip in order to achieve a younger appearance.

Is lip shortening surgery a difficult operation, and how long does it take?
Lip shortening surgery is not a difficult or painful operation. It is performed under local anesthesia and takes approximately 45 minutes.

How is lip shortening surgery performed?
In this surgery, a seagull-wing-shaped piece of skin is removed from the junction of the upper lip and nose, thereby shortening the distance of the upper lip. After the surgery is completed, the incision line is closed with hidden subcutaneous sutures and covered with dressings.

What are the possible risks and complications of lip shortening surgery?
As with any surgery, there are risks such as bleeding, bruising-swelling, asymmetry and scarring after lip shortening surgery. These risks will be minimized as much as possible with the appropriate approach of your surgeon and by the patient strictly following the recommendations.

Are there any side effects of lip shortening surgery?
Lip shortening surgery does not have any specific side effects, and the surgical risk is not higher than that of other aesthetic surgeries.

Will there be scars after lip shortening surgery?
In upper lip shortening surgery, a linear scar remains at the junction of the upper lip and nose. This scar fades over time and becomes much less noticeable. Unless examined very closely, it is difficult to notice, and in the long term the scar becomes barely visible.

How long do the effects of lip shortening surgery last, and will I need another operation in the future?
In most cases, the effects of lip shortening surgery last for many years. However, since aesthetic surgery does not stop the aging process, a small amount of additional lip shortening may very rarely be needed as aging continues.

What should be done before lip shortening surgery?
Before lip shortening surgery, our doctor evaluates the patient and a plan is made regarding the procedure to be performed. The surgery date is decided. As with all other surgeries, smoking should be stopped 2 weeks before surgery. Blood-thinning medications, herbal teas, vitamins and weight-loss medications should not be used starting 1 week before surgery. Only medications that the patient needs to use because of existing diseases should be taken with the doctor’s knowledge. You will be informed about how many hours you need to fast on the day of surgery.

Why is it important to stop smoking before lip shortening surgery?
Since smoking significantly affects wound healing, it is strongly recommended that you do not smoke for 15 days before and 15 days after surgery. The patient should be aware that smoking is one of the main causes of poor healing.

How should we sleep after lip shortening surgery?
In order to prevent swelling in the lip area from increasing and to allow it to decrease over time, you should sleep with your head elevated using 2-3 pillows.

How is dressing performed after lip shortening surgery?
As long as the tapes applied during surgery are not removed, no additional dressing is required. There may be minimal leakage in the dressing area. Your doctor will check the wounds through the tapes at certain intervals, and the tapes are removed after 7 days. After that, no dressing is required. Your doctor may recommend creams for the wound line.

When can I return to work after lip shortening surgery?
After lip shortening surgery, your tissues will have healed sufficiently within 5 days. However, in most cases, completing 7 days is sufficient before going out in public and returning to work.

When can I start exercising after lip shortening surgery?
For the first 3 days after lip shortening surgery, you are generally advised to rest, walk around the house and perform simple daily activities. After 3 days, you may take short and careful walks outside. However, lifting weights and strenuous exercise are not recommended during the first weeks. Generally, all types of sports activities are allowed after 2 months.

Will the stitches be removed after lip shortening surgery?
Since the sutures used in lip shortening surgery are completely hidden, there is no need for stitch removal.

Is lip shortening surgery very painful?
Most patients state that they do not experience any pain after lip shortening surgery. However, mild tightness and pain may still be expected in the surgical area. Regular use of the prescribed antibiotics and painkillers is generally sufficient.

When can I take a shower after lip shortening surgery?
During the first days after surgery, the wound areas should not be wet. However, since the appropriate time for showering varies according to the condition of the wound, you may take a shower when your doctor gives approval. Generally, face washing and showering are allowed after 7 days. Extremely hot or extremely cold water is not recommended during the early period.

When can I swim in the pool or sea after lip shortening surgery?
It is recommended to wait 2 months before swimming in the pool or sea.

When can I travel after lip shortening surgery?
After lip shortening surgery, short-distance road travel can be made after 4 days. For a 1-2 hour flight, it is appropriate to wait until 7 days have passed.

How long should sexual intercourse be avoided after lip shortening surgery?
During sexual intercourse, blood pressure increases, which may cause unwanted bleeding in the face after surgery. Therefore, it is recommended to wait 2 weeks before sexual intercourse.

When can I start sunbathing or use a solarium after lip shortening surgery?
After lip shortening surgery, sunbathing and solarium use are not appropriate for the first 3-4 months because the surgical areas may be affected and the scars may become darker.

How much does lip shortening surgery cost?
In order to provide clear information about the cost of lip shortening surgery, the patient’s complaints and aesthetic expectations need to be evaluated objectively, and the procedures required need to be determined. Pricing information will be provided after the examination.

If you have any questions regarding surgeries or would like to be evaluated by Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery Specialist Op. Dr. Fatih Söylemez, you can request an appointment via WhatsApp or Contact Form now.