Cosmetic Surgery

Subnasal Lip Lift

Shorten the philtrum and elevate the upper lip permanently

A subnasal lip lift is a short, precise surgical procedure that removes a strip of skin from beneath the nose, shortening the philtrum and rolling the upper lip upward and outward for a more youthful, defined lip position. Unlike filler, the result is permanent — and it addresses the structural cause of a long or descended upper lip rather than adding volume.

The incision is placed in the shadow beneath the nasal base, following the natural nostril curve to conceal the scar. As healing progresses the scar fades considerably, and most patients find it virtually undetectable at 6 months. The procedure takes 30–45 minutes under local anaesthesia.

Key Benefits

Permanent shortening of a long or descended philtrum
Natural elevation and eversion of the upper lip
No ongoing maintenance unlike filler
Concealed scar within the natural nostril-base shadow

Is This Treatment Right For You?

Patients with a philtrum longer than 1.5–2 cm
Those whose upper lip has descended and thinned with age
Individuals seeking a structural, permanent lip correction
Patients who have found filler inadequate for philtrum length

What to Expect

Consultation

Philtrum measured; amount of lift calculated to achieve a natural, balanced result.

Anaesthesia

Local anaesthesia; optional oral sedation for comfort.

Excision & Closure

Precisely designed skin excision beneath the nose; fine suture closure.

Healing

Sutures removed at 5–7 days; scar continues to fade for 6 months.

Recovery & Aftercare

Most patients return to work within 5–7 days. Mild swelling resolves within 1–2 weeks. The final natural result is visible at 3 months as the scar fades.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the scar from a lip lift be visible?

The incision is placed precisely in the crease beneath the nose. With careful closure and scar maturation it becomes very discreet — most patients report feeling confident without make-up by 3–6 months.

How much can the philtrum be shortened?

Typically 4–8 mm of tissue is removed, depending on the original philtrum length and the desired result. Over-resection risks distorting the natural nasal appearance, so conservative precision is key.