Aesthetic & Cosmetic Surgery in New York
Lip Lift NYC
Allure Plastic Surgery
A bullhorn upper lip lift shortens the distance between your nose and upper lip for a fuller smile and a more youthful look. The surgical procedure raises your upper lip by removing a small strip of skin under the nose. With Dr. Elliot Heller, MD, our plastic surgeon with over 20 years of experience, you get balanced, natural results. His practice notes that his easy-going manner puts patients at ease.
Before & After Lip Lift in New York City
Lip Lift Specialist
Dr. Elliot Heller, MD
Dr. Elliot Heller, MD, is a plastic surgeon at Allure Plastic Surgery. Currently, Dr. Heller has an average patient rating of 5.0 based on over 100 reviews. He practices at Allure Plastic Surgery in Manhattan, Staten Island, and Edison, NJ.
Benefits of an Upper Lip Lift
Dr. Heller tailors each lift to your facial proportions for balanced, natural results.
Fuller, Youthful Lips
A lip lift raises the lip's position and adds natural fullness, for a more feminine, youthful pout.
Enhanced Smile
By shortening the nose-to-lip distance, more of your upper teeth show when you smile, brightening your expression.
Long-Lasting Results
Unlike temporary injections, a lip lift is permanent. Results last, subject only to normal aging.
Minimal Maintenance
After healing, you won't need repeat treatments. The surgical lift repositions tissue permanently.
Lip Lift Techniques
Dr. Heller has performed every type of lip lift. He chooses the method that improves your facial balance without looking overdone.
Bullhorn (Subnasal) Lip Lift
The most popular technique. An incision is hidden just under the nose in the shape of a tiny bull's horn. It elevates the upper lip for a broader smile and enhances the Cupid's bow.
Key Benefits
- Well-concealed scar
- Natural-looking results
- Enhanced Cupid's bow
- Broader smile
Direct (Gull-Wing) Lip Lift
A curved, M-shaped strip is removed along the lip line. This shortens the vertical distance above the lip and sharpens the Cupid's bow.
Key Benefits
- Direct lift effect
- Sharp Cupid's bow
- Precise control
- Immediate results
Corner Lip Lift
Small incisions at each corner lift and re-suture the skin, turning up a downturned mouth into a more cheerful one.
Key Benefits
- Upturned corners
- Cheerful expression
- Minimal scarring
- Quick procedure
The Lip Lift Procedure
Dr. Heller typically performs the lip lift under local anesthesia in an outpatient setting. It takes around one hour from start to finish.
Step 1
Preparation
During consultation, Dr. Heller marks the incision line to plan symmetry and balance. You may be advised to stop certain medications before surgery to optimize healing.
Step 2
Anesthesia
Local anesthetic is injected into the upper lip and nose area. This numbs the skin for the lift.
Step 3
Incision and Lift
Dr. Heller makes a small incision along the base of the nose, gently removes a thin strip of skin, and repositions the lip upward for a fuller appearance.
Step 4
Closure
The incision is closed with fine sutures placed to minimize visible scarring. Sutures are typically removed about one week later.
Recovery After Your Lip Lift
Recovery is generally quick. Most patients find the healing easier than they expected.
Day 1-2
Immediate Post-Surgery
Mild swelling and tightness around the incision. Dr. Heller provides detailed at-home care instructions.
- Take prescribed pain relievers
- Apply cold compress gently
- Keep head elevated while sleeping
Day 2-3
Return to Normal Activities
Many patients return to work within 2-3 days. Avoid heavy exercise or strenuous activities.
- Light daily activities resumed
- Work from home or office
- Gentle face washing allowed
Day 5-7
Suture Removal
Fine sutures are removed around 5-7 days post-op. The small scar sits tucked under the nose.
- Quick suture removal appointment
- Scar care instructions provided
- Natural healing continues
1-3 Months
Final Results
Swelling fully subsides and your new lip position settles. The scar fades steadily over time.
- Complete healing achieved
- Permanent results visible
- Scar becomes nearly imperceptible
Testimonials
★★★★★
Doctor Heller was an amazing doctor and surgeon. I had eye surgery and threads results came out beautiful, went back for lip enhancement. Everything he does is done with perfection.
R.R.
★★★★★
I just want to thank dr heller, he does beautiful work. I had my lips & chin filled in, amazing work. I will highly recommend him.
K.B.P.
★★★★★
I had the pleasure of being treated with dermal fillers by Dr Elliot Heller. Dr Heller is calm, professional, informative and honest. He was gentle and injected with expertise and I'm happy with the results.
P.P.
FAQ
Lip Lift FAQs
How long do lip lift results last?
The change is permanent. Unlike fillers that fade in months, a surgical lip lift is a one-time procedure. Normal aging still continues across the face. Dr. Elliot Heller, MD, confirms that lip lift results are permanent.
Is a lip lift painful?
No. Only local anesthesia is used, and most patients feel only minor discomfort. Afterward, gentle pain meds are usually all that’s needed. Dr. Elliot Heller says, “The entire process is not considered overly painful by most patients.” Any soreness typically fades within a few days.
How visible is the scar?
Scarring is minimal. Incisions sit in natural creases, right under the nose or at the corners of the mouth. With proper healing, the tiny scar is virtually hidden. Dr. Heller notes that lip lift scars are well-hidden under the nose and fade over time. Most patients find the scar nearly undetectable after several weeks.
Can lip fillers replace a lip lift?
Fillers add volume but can’t reposition the lip. According to Dr. Elliot Heller, fillers are ideal for plumping thin lips, while a lip lift changes the distance between the upper lip and the nose for a lifted effect. Fillers augment the lip. Only a lip lift permanently reshapes it and shows more tooth. Dr. Heller often recommends a lip lift for patients seeking a more dramatic, lasting improvement.
Who is a good candidate for a lip lift?
Good candidates are non-smokers in good health who have a longer upper lip or a thin, flat lip that hides the teeth. Realistic goals matter, as does being free of conditions that affect healing. At your consultation, Dr. Heller will confirm whether a lip lift is right for you, and may discuss combining it with other procedures like rhinoplasty or a facelift for facial harmony.
Can I combine it with other procedures?
Yes. A lip lift can be paired with other facial rejuvenation procedures. Dr. Heller often combines lip lifts with facelifts, brow lifts, eyelid surgery, or non-surgical treatments like laser resurfacing and Botox. He will design a treatment plan tailored to your goals.
Flexible Financing
Pay Over Time with Affirm, Cherry, or CareCredit
We work with Affirm, Cherry, and CareCredit so you can spread the cost of your procedure into manageable monthly payments. Approval usually takes minutes, and there is no penalty for paying off early.
Begin
Ready for a fuller, more youthful smile?
Meet our team for a consultation in Manhattan, Staten Island, or Edison, NJ.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please schedule a consultation with our team to discuss your individual needs.