Italian Lip Lift

The Italian lip lift is a modification of the bullhorn lip lift, creating a similar aesthetic effect but utilizing a shortened incision. By creating two shorter incisions centered directly underneath the nostril, the Italian lip lift avoids a complete incision across the nose. Skin is then removed from each side of the lip and the incisions are closed. This in effect reduces the distance between the lip and the nose.

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The Skinny

Italian Lip Lift

avg. recovery: 10 days
permanence: Is permanent
Type: Surgical Procedure
surgical: Yes
cost: $3000 - $4500

About the Procedure

Last Updated: 09.17.2021

The Italian lip lift aims to create a similar effect to the bullhorn lip lift while utilizing a less invasive approach to reduce scarring. In place of creating one long incision, the Italian lip lift utilizes two shorter incisions underneath the nostril. The result is a subtler, nuanced appearance with a far shorter scar. This type of lift tends to focus more on increasing the curve of the cupid's bow by lengthening the height of the peaks of the lips. Before the lip lift begins, preoperative marks will be made as to where the incisions will be located. Next, the surgical area will be cleansed and a local anesthesia accompanied by epinephrine will be applied throughout the procedure region and resection is performed in the subcutaneous plane. Once resection is finished, the predetermined areas will then be removed and the skin will be lifted to just inside the nostrils to better conceal resulting scars. Fine-tuning will then often be required to ensure ideal tooth show, relieve any skin tension, and to create a more symmetric inset. To complete the procedure, the incisions are then closed. The average cost of this procedure is $3,325.

The Italian lip lift targets candidates with long upper lips in reference to the non-red portion of the lip below the nose. This lip lift causes the red lip to roll outwardly achieving a more youthful "fuller" look. This lift can also be used to create a wider smile, increasing tooth show.

Concerns

Italian Lip Lift addresses concerns such as:

What to Expect

The Italian lip lift is a modification of the bullhorn lip lift which utilizes smaller incisions. Here is a quick guide for what to expect before, during, and after an Italian lip lift.

Before Treatment

Antiviral and antibiotics may be prescribed
Avoid blooding thinning medications for 2 weeks
Stop smoking 4 weeks before and after surgery
No alcohol 2 days prior
Do not eat or drink for 6 hours before

Immediately After Treatment

Lips and mouth will be sore
Swelling

Recovery Notes

Swelling will be most prevalent the first 72 hours after an Italian lip lift surgery. To help reduce any swelling, apply cool compresses as needed and sleep in an inclined position. Use any prescribed pain medication as instructed. Any sutures used during surgery will typically be removed after 5 days. It is common for the incision to appear raised during recovery.

Ideal Candidate

Any candidate who presents with an elongated white lip or has height mismatch between the white lip and red lip is a good candidate for an Italian lip lift. Individuals with a asymmetrical lip points or who desire a more pronounced cupid's bow would be a good candidate as well.

Not Recommended For

An Italian lip lift is is not recommended for candidates with active infections in or around the mouth such as herpes, lupus, blood-clotting diseases, diabetes, or heavy smokers unwilling to quit for a short period.

Side Effects

Side effects from an Italian lip lift may include infection, fluid accumulation (seroma), wound separation, abnormal scarring, loss of sensation, or dissatisfaction with the aesthetic results.