If you’ve noticed that your lips have become thinner, your upper lip seems longer than it used to be, or your smile doesn’t reflect how youthful you feel, you may wonder which treatment can help. You might also want more defined, balanced lips without looking overdone.
At DeRosa Facial Plastic Surgery in Boston’s Back Bay, double board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Jaimie DeRosa takes time to understand your goals and recommend the treatment that best complements your facial features. Some patients can achieve their goals with lip fillers, while others may need a surgical lip lift for optimal results. In this article, we highlight the key differences between lip lifts and lip fillers and help you make an informed decision.
Overview
Lip lift
A lip lift is a surgical procedure that shortens the distance between your nose and upper lip, allowing more of the pink portion of your upper lip to show. By subtly elevating the upper lip, the procedure creates a more youthful appearance while improving lip balance and enhancing your smile. Dr. DeRosa customizes every lip lift to complement your natural facial proportions.
Lip filler
Lip filler is a non-surgical treatment that uses hyaluronic acid-based fillers to add volume, improve lip definition, and enhance contour. Your provider carefully places the filler to create natural-looking fullness while preserving facial harmony. Lip filler can be tailored to achieve subtle enhancement or more noticeable volume, depending on your goals.
Results and aesthetic goals
Lip lift
If your upper lip appears long, your upper teeth show less when you smile, or you want a more youthful lip position, a lip lift may be the ideal choice. Rather than adding volume, the procedure repositions the lip to create improved facial balance and a naturally refreshed appearance that still looks like you, only better.
Lip filler
A lip filler is ideal if your primary goal is to increase fullness, define the lip border, or restore volume that has diminished over time. Fillers can also improve lip symmetry and enhance the cupid’s bow while maintaining soft, natural-looking proportions. The treatment can be adjusted over time as your preferences evolve.
Longevity and maintenance
Lip lift
A lip lift provides long-lasting improvement because it surgically changes the position of the upper lip. Once you’ve healed, you can enjoy your results without routine maintenance treatments, making it an appealing option if you’re looking for a lasting solution.
Lip filler
Lip fillers produce immediate enhancement but are temporary. Because hyaluronic acid breaks down, you’ll need maintenance treatments to preserve your results. Many people appreciate the flexibility of being able to refine or adjust their look over time without surgery.
Recovery and treatment experience
Lip lift
A lip lift is performed surgically and requires a recovery period while the incision beneath the nose heals. Although downtime is greater than with injectables, many patients find the lasting improvement well worth the recovery. At DeRosa Center on Newbury Street, your procedure is performed in an on-site QUAD A-accredited surgical facility for exceptional safety.
Lip filler
Lip filler is a quick, in-office procedure with minimal downtime. You may experience temporary swelling or bruising, but most people return to normal activities immediately. This makes fillers an attractive option if you want lip enhancement without surgery or a lengthy recovery.
Verdict: Which is right for you?
A lip lift may be the right choice if you want a permanent improvement in lip position, have a longer upper lip, or are looking for a more youthful smile without relying on repeated HA filler treatments. Meanwhile, a lip filler may be the better option if you want fuller lips, enhanced definition, or a non-surgical treatment with little to no downtime.
During your consultation at DeRosa Facial Plastic Surgery in Boston’s Back Bay, double board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. DeRosa will listen to your goals and recommend the approach that best suits your facial anatomy. Whether that involves surgery, injectables, or a combination of treatments, the focus is always on beautifully subtle, natural-looking results that help you look and feel your best.
