Lip Lift in
Scottsdale, AZ

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Lip lift surgery in Scottsdale, Phoenix & Paradise Valley, performed by board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Mark Gruszynski.

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Scottsdale Lip Lift Specialist · Board Certified Plastic Surgeon · Thousands of Procedures · Scottsdale Lip Lift Specialist · Board Certified Plastic Surgeon · Thousands of Procedures ·

When Fillers Aren’t Enough

For many people, lips can change how the entire face is perceived. A long upper lip may hide the teeth when you smile, thin lips may feel out of balance with the rest of your features, or years of fillers may have left results that never felt quite right.

You’ve probably imagined what it would feel like to smile without thinking about how your lips look, or to see your reflection and feel that everything finally fits together. You want your lips to frame your smile naturally, to highlight your expression rather than distract from it.

If that’s your case, you are in the right place. A lip lift can create fuller lips and adapt your lips to a better proportion. Our lip lift experts help men and women in Scottsdale and Phoenix decide whether this procedure is the right choice for them.

What To Know About Lip Lift In Scottsdale

A lip lift is a plastic surgical procedure that shortens the distance between the nose and the upper lip, improving the shape and proportion of the mouth.

By removing a narrow strip of skin just beneath the base of the nose, the upper lip is gently lifted, which allows for more of the pink lip to show and improves the definition at the Cupid’s bow.

This change gives the lips a naturally fuller appearance, makes the upper teeth more visible when smiling, and brings openness to the mouth.

As the procedure reshapes the lip itself, it offers a permanent alternative to fillers and can correct concerns that injections alone cannot, such as a long upper lip or lips that appear flat.

Take the first step toward a refreshed appearance using your body’s own resources. Book your facial fat transfer consultation in Scottsdale.

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Benefits of a Lip Lift

A lip lift enhances the shape and proportion of the upper lip while bringing greater harmony to the lower face. Some of the key benefits include:

Shortens a Long Upper Lip: Reduces the space between the nose and upper lip so more of the pink lip is visible.
Reveals Upper Teeth: Creates a more open, attractive smile by showing the upper teeth naturally.
Provides Lasting Change: Offers a permanent structural improvement instead of temporary filler results.
Reduces Filler Dependence: Perfect for patients who want to avoid frequent maintenance appointments.

Ideal Candidates
for a Lip Lift Procedure

Not every patient from Scottsdale, Phoenix, and nearby communities is seeking a lip lift with the same goals. Some patients want to shorten a long upper lip, while others hope to create better balance or replace fillers with a lasting solution. The best candidates often share these qualities:

Thin or Flat Lips

Minimal visible pink or lack of definition, even without signs of aging.

Long Upper Lip

The space between the nose and lip is extended, which hides the teeth when smiling.

Uneven Proportions

The upper and lower lips appear out of balance with each other.

Unhappy with Fillers

You want a more natural-looking result or prefer not to repeat filler treatments.

Downturned Corners

Corners of the mouth tilt downward, creating a heavier or tired expression.

If any of these sound familiar, a lip lift could be the procedure that creates the definition and proportion you’re looking for.

Book your consultation today at our Scottsdale office to explore your options.

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What Is the Difference Between a Lip Lift and Lip Fillers?

While both lip lifts and fillers can increase the size of the lips, they work in very different ways. Fillers add a temporary lip augmentation by injecting material into the lips, but they do not shorten the upper lip or change its shape. Results typically last 6–12 months and require regular maintenance.

A lip lift, on the other hand, is a facial surgical procedure that reshapes the upper lip itself. The results are permanent, offering a structural improvement that fillers cannot achieve.

For those in Scottsdale or Phoenix seeking the best outcome, it often comes from combining both treatments: a lip lift for structure and definition, with fillers for subtle volume adjustments if needed.

Lip Lift Consultation At Our Scottsdale Office

Your consultation with Dr. Mark is designed to help you understand what a lip lift can achieve and know if it’s the right choice for you.

He will carefully study the proportions of your lips, the distance between your nose and upper lip, and how your smile reveals your teeth.

He’ll also review any history with fillers or lip treatments, discuss what bothers you most, and listen to how you want your lips to look, showing you lip lift before-and-after photos.

Together, you’ll go over the different lip lift techniques and determine which approach best fits your anatomy and goals. By the end of your consultation, you’ll have a plan, and you will feel confident about the next steps.

How to Prepare for Your Lip Lift

Proper preparation for facial plastic surgery is key to a good healing process and the best possible scar outcome. Our team will provide you with personalized guidance.

Avoid Fillers

Skip lip filler or injections for at least 3–4 weeks before surgery to keep the natural lip shape.

Plan Soft Foods

Prepare easy-to-eat meals and expect to limit exaggerated speech and chewing for a few days.

Arrange a Ride

Have someone drive you home after surgery, even if you receive light sedation.

Arrive with Clean Skin

Come with no lipstick, gloss, sunscreen, or skincare products near the lips or nose on surgery day.

Stop Nicotine Use

Quit smoking and vaping at least 4 weeks before and after surgery to support healthy healing.

Plan Downtime

Allow about one week for swelling, bruising, and stitches to improve.

With these steps, you’ll be fully prepared for your procedure and recovery.

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What are the Steps of a Lip Lift Procedure?

A lip lift is a straightforward outpatient procedure for Scottsdale and Phoenix patients, typically completed in about an hour. Here’s what to expect:

Most lip lifts are performed with local anesthesia, which numbs the area while allowing you to stay awake and relaxed. In some cases, light sedation is added to make the experience more comfortable. Throughout the procedure, your comfort and safety are monitored closely to ensure a smooth and stress-free process.

Depending on the chosen technique, Dr. Mark carefully marks the skin just beneath the base of the nose, following the natural curves of the nostrils or along the lip border. These markings are designed to keep the incision hidden within natural creases so it will be barely noticeable once healed¹.

A precisely measured strip of skin is removed to shorten the distance between the nose and upper lip. Dr. Mark takes great care to remove just the right amount to create a subtle yet meaningful change that enhances lip proportion without over-shortening.

The remaining skin is gently lifted and secured into its new position. This step shortens the upper lip, reveals more of the pink lip, and refines the Cupid’s bow for a natural, balanced appearance. The result is a more expressive look without altering the rest of the face.

Fine sutures are placed to carefully bring the skin edges together with minimal tension, which helps reduce visible scarring. Dr. Mark aligns the closure with precision so the final result follows the natural contours of the nose and lip.

You’ll be able to return home the same day as your procedure. Stitches typically remain in place for about a week. Swelling and mild bruising are normal early on, but most patients start to notice a softer, more defined lip shape almost immediately as healing begins.

Lip Lift Techniques

Different types of lip lifts can address specific lip shapes and goals. During your consultation, Dr. Mark will determine which approach is best for you.

Bullhorn Lip Lift

The most common technique, the bullhorn lip lift, involves a discreet incision beneath the base of the nose in the shape of a bullhorn. This allows the center and sides of the upper lip to be lifted evenly². It shortens the distance between the nose and lip, increases tooth show, and creates a more defined Cupid’s bow while keeping the scar well hidden.

Central Lip Lift

The central lip lift focuses on the middle of the upper lip, lifting primarily the Cupid’s bow. A small incision is made at the base of the nose to allow the center of the lip to be elevated. This option is ideal for patients who want more definition in the center of the lip without changing the corners.

Corner Lip Lift

A corner lip lift elevates the outer corners of the mouth, softening a downturned or “sad” appearance. Small incisions are made at the corners of the lips to gently lift them into a more neutral or slightly smiling position. This procedure is often combined with another lip lift technique for balanced results.

Gullwing Lip Lift

The gullwing lip lift, also called a direct lip lift, uses an incision along the upper border of the lip in the shape of a seagull’s wings. This technique increases the visible pink portion of the upper lip and sharpens the definition at the border. While it can create dramatic change, the scar placement makes it less common than other options.

Italian Lip Lift

The Italian lip lift is a more subtle variation, involving two small incisions placed at the base of each nostril. It lifts the upper lip without affecting the center, making it a good choice for patients seeking a modest change. This approach is less invasive but may not provide as dramatic a result as the bullhorn technique.

V to Y Lip Lift

The V-Y advancement lift involves an incision shaped like the letter “V” inside the lip, which is then closed in a “Y” shape. This technique creates more projection of the upper lip without shortening the space under the nose³. Incisions are placed inside the lip, so this option avoids external scars.

Schedule your lip lift consultation today to find out which approach is best for you.

Personalize Your Plan

Lip Lift Recovery Timeline

It’s important to know how the first few days and weeks typically unfold with lip lifts. Here’s what you can expect:

Day 1

During the first day, your upper lip will feel swollen and slightly tight. Speaking and eating may feel awkward, so soft foods are recommended. Keeping your head elevated and applying cold compresses can help reduce swelling.

Day 3

By day three, swelling and bruising may still be present, but usually start to improve. The lip may still feel firm, but discomfort is generally mild and manageable with medication if needed.

Day 7

Sutures are usually removed around the first week. Swelling continues to go down, and the lip begins to look more natural. The incision is still visible but is healing well. Many patients feel ready to return to work or light activities at this point.

Week 2

After two weeks have passed, most swelling has resolved, and the lip looks softer and more natural. The incision is fading and can often be concealed with makeup if needed.

Months 1–3

The incision continues to blend into the natural crease under the nose by months 1 to 3. The final lip shape becomes more defined, and most patients feel fully comfortable in all social settings.

Months 3–6

At the 3-6 months stage, healing is complete. The incision is barely noticeable, and the results are in. The lips appear more defined and proportionate to your facial features.

Dr. Mark’s Recovery Tips

Keep your head elevated while resting
Apply cold compresses around the mouth
Avoid stretching your upper lip while it heals
Eat soft foods for the first few days
Do not pick at scabs or incisions
Keep the area clean and moisturized
Use sunscreen on the scar once closed

Why Choose
Dr. Mark Gruszynski

Dr. Mark Gruszynski is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon recognized across Scottsdale and Phoenix with extensive experience performing facial procedures, including lip lifts. Trained at UCLA, one of the country’s most respected programs, and with years of surgical expertise, he is known for creating natural and well-proportioned results.

With a lip lift, precision is everything. Dr. Mark carefully tailors the procedure to each patient’s anatomy to ensure the incision is discreet and the improvement fits seamlessly with their features.

Beyond technical skill, he is known for his compassionate, patient-centered approach, where he listens to your goals, answers your questions, and guides you through every step of the process.

Meet Our Lip Lift Specialist

Frequently Asked
Questions About Lip Lift

Lip lift results are permanent since the procedure removes tissue and repositions your lip anatomy. While natural aging continues, your enhanced lip shape and improved facial proportions remain long-term. Most patients enjoy their results for many years without needing additional procedures.

The incision is placed in the natural crease below your nose, where scars heal very well. Most patients find their scars virtually invisible within 6-12 months. Proper post-operative care and following Dr. Mark’s instructions help optimize scar healing and minimize visibility.

Most patients experience mild to moderate discomfort rather than severe pain. Prescription pain medication effectively manages any discomfort during the first few days. Many people transition to over-the-counter pain relievers within a week of surgery.

You can typically resume wearing lipstick and other lip products after 2-3 weeks once initial healing is complete. Start with gentle, non-irritating products and avoid anything that requires aggressive removal. Dr. Mark will provide specific guidance based on your healing progress.

Some temporary numbness or altered sensation is normal immediately after surgery. Most sensation returns within a few weeks as swelling subsides and nerves heal. Permanent changes in sensation are rare when the procedure is performed by an experienced surgeon.

You’ll need to stick to soft foods for the first week to avoid stretching your incision. Gradually return to your normal diet as comfort allows, typically within 2-3 weeks. Avoid very hot foods initially and use a straw carefully to prevent strain on your healing tissues.

Lip lifts and fillers address different concerns and can complement each other. A lip lift provides permanent structural change and better lip proportions, while fillers add volume. Dr. Mark can help you determine which approach or combination best achieves your desired results.

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References

Echo, A., Momoh, A.O., & Yüksel, E. (2011). The no-scar lip-lift: Upper lip suspension technique. Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, 35(4), 617-623. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21359992/
Gallagher, G. (2021, June 28). Bullhorn lip lift: Procedure, cost, what to expect & more. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/cosmetic-surgery/bullhorn-lip-lift?
Mutaf, M. (2006, June). V-Y in V-Y procedure: New technique for augmentation and protrusion of the upper lip. Annals of Plastic Surgery, 56(6), 605-608. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16721070/