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Reframe Your Smile With Subtle Surgical Artistry at Setty Plastics & Aesthetics

This procedure, performed by plastic surgeon Dr. Michael Chung, is ideal for patients who want a permanently elegant lip shape and balanced improvement. His approach is rooted in anatomical precision, ensuring timeless, not trendy results.

Beautiful woman with hair and makeup done in studio shoot. Her full lips to emphasize the potential results of a lip lift in McKinney

What Is a Lip Lift?

The space between the nose and upper lip lengthens as we age due to collagen loss and tissue descent. This can lead to:

  • A thinner, flatter upper lip
  • Less visible red lip (“vermilion show”)
  • A drooping appearance at the lip corners
  • Reduced dental show (less visible teeth when smiling)

A lip lift is a surgical procedure that elevates the upper lip by shortening the distance between the nose and lip border. This is achieved by removing a small strip of skin beneath the nose and lifting the lip tissue upward.

The goal is to:

  • Improve lip-to-nose proportions
  • Reveal more of the upper teeth when the lips are at rest
  • Create a gentle “lip roll” for a fuller-looking upper lip
  • Enhance smile aesthetics and youthful expression
  • Achieve a more defined Cupid’s bow without filler

Unlike injectable lip augmentation, which adds volume, a lip lift reshapes the existing tissue for a subtle, permanent result.

Types of Lip Lift Techniques

Subnasal (Bullhorn) Lip Lift

A discreet incision hidden at the base of the nose allows for central elevation of the upper lip. This is the most popular and effective method, offering natural results with minimal visible scarring.

Corner Lip Lift (when needed)

Improves downturned corners of the mouth, often combined with a subnasal lift for complete perioral rejuvenation.

Benefits of a Lip Lift

A well-executed lip lift does more than adjust proportions—it can transform your face's overall balance and vibrancy. Patients often experience:

  • A more open, approachable smile that feels effortlessly youthful
  • Greater visibility of the upper teeth for a naturally engaging expression
  • Enhanced upper lip contour and Cupid’s bow definition without reliance on filler
  • Improved harmony between the lips, nose, and surrounding features
  • Results that age gracefully, maintaining their effect for years to come
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Are You a Good Candidate for a Lip Lift?

You may be a strong candidate for lip lift surgery in McKinney if you:

  • Have an elongated philtrum
  • Display a thin or flat upper lip contour that lacks definition
  • Maintain good skin elasticity in the perioral region, supporting optimal healing and refined results
  • Are in overall good health with no uncontrolled medical conditions that could impair recovery, such as diabetes or clotting disorders
  • Do not smoke or are committed to nicotine cessation for the recommended pre- and postoperative period to optimize healing
  • Are free from active oral infections, periodontal disease, or untreated dental issues that could complicate surgery
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Beautiful woman with hair and makeup done in studio shoot. Her full lips to emphasize the potential results of a lip lift in McKinney

Lip Lift Consultation

During your first appointment with Dr. Chung, he will:

  • Analyze your lip shape, philtrum length, and tooth show
  • Assess your facial balance and lip-to-chin proportions
  • Review your health history and lifestyle
  • Provide a detailed, personalized surgical plan

Lip lift surgery typically costs $4,500–$6,500, depending on complexity and whether additional procedures (such as a corner lift or laser skin resurfacing) are performed. During your visit, you’ll receive a personalized quote and financing options.

Why Choose Setty Plastics & Aesthetics?

Dr. Michael Chung is one of the region’s most extensively trained facial plastic surgeons. He received specialized training at the nation’s #1-ranked plastic surgery program, UT Southwestern. His surgical expertise in the lip and perioral region ensures that every millimeter is measured, every incision is deliberate, and every result is harmonious.

Our AAAASF-accredited surgical center offers a luxurious, discreet setting for facial procedures, with an experienced clinical team and board-certified anesthesia providers who prioritize your safety and comfort.

Beautiful woman with hair and makeup done in studio shoot. Her full lips to emphasize the potential results of a lip lift in McKinney

The Lip Lift Procedure: What to Expect

Our lip lift in McKinney is performed under local anesthesia with optional oral sedation in our private surgical suite, taking less than one hour.

To start, a carefully measured strip of skin is removed from the base of the nose. The upper lip is gently lifted and sutured in a tension-free, layered closure. Finally, incisions are meticulously closed to promote near-invisible scarring.

You’ll return home the same day with detailed aftercare instructions and follow-up appointments scheduled to ensure proper healing.

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Recovery and Results

  • Days 1–3: Mild swelling and tightness are expected; rest and limit talking.
  • 1 week: Sutures removed or dissolved; swelling begins to fade.
  • 2–3 weeks: Incision continues to heal; most patients feel socially confident.
  • 1–3 months: Final results settle in; scar fades beautifully with proper care. Results are considered permanent and age naturally over time.
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Related Procedures

For full perioral rejuvenation, a lip lift may be combined with:

  • Upper Blepharoplasty to brighten the eyes and frame the face
  • Facelift or Neck Lift to enhance lower facial harmony
  • Fat Transfer or Filler to refine lip volume or address lip lines
  • CO2 Laser or Morpheus8 for perioral skin tightening and texture

Lip Lift FAQ

What are the risks of a lip lift?

Will a lip lift make my lips look unnatural or “overdone”?

How is a lip lift different from lip fillers?

Will a lip lift affect how I speak or eat?

How visible will the scar be?

How long before I can wear lipstick after a lip lift?

Will a lip lift change my smile?

Is a lip lift right for me if I already have full lips?

What are the risks of a lip lift?

Potential risks include scarring, asymmetry, changes in lip sensation, delayed healing, infection, or overcorrection. Dr. Chung’s precision technique, meticulous incision placement, and layered closure greatly reduce these risks, while postoperative monitoring ensures any concerns are addressed early.

Will a lip lift make my lips look unnatural or “overdone”?

Not in Dr. Chung’s hands. His approach is guided by facial proportion, millimeter-level precision, and restraint. The goal is to restore youthful balance, not to create an exaggerated or artificial look.

How is a lip lift different from lip fillers?

A lip lift reshapes the position and curve of the upper lip for permanent structural change, revealing more vermilion and improving tooth show. Fillers add temporary volume but cannot shorten the philtrum or change lip position. Many patients choose a lip lift for a lasting, natural enhancement without ongoing maintenance.

Will a lip lift affect how I speak or eat?

Temporary tightness or mild stiffness is common during the first week, but normal speech and eating typically return quickly. Dr. Chung designs your lift to preserve lip mobility and natural oral function.

How visible will the scar be?

The incision is hidden along the natural curve at the base of the nose, making it discreet. With proper aftercare, silicone therapy, and sun protection, most patients find the scar becomes nearly imperceptible over time.

How long before I can wear lipstick after a lip lift?

Most patients can apply lipstick or lip gloss after 2–3 weeks, once the incision is well-healed and swelling has subsided. Dr. Chung will provide guidance on safe cosmetic use during your follow-up appointments.

Will a lip lift change my smile?

Yes—subtly and positively. By lifting the upper lip, more of your upper teeth will show when smiling, creating a more engaging, youthful expression. Dr. Chung ensures the lift maintains your natural smile dynamics.

Is a lip lift right for me if I already have full lips?

Possibly. Even with naturally full lips, a long philtrum can make them appear less defined or conceal dental show. A lip lift enhances the proportion and shape of the lips without necessarily adding volume.

Elevate Your Expression With Confidence

A well-performed lip lift can transform how you present yourself to the world. At Setty Plastics & Aesthetics, every detail of your procedure is guided by advanced surgical training and anatomical expertise.

If you’ve been considering a more youthful, defined smile, there’s no better time to take the first step. Schedule your private consultation with Dr. Michael Chung today.

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