45–90 min
Local or IV sedation
1–2 weeks
Long-lasting to permanent
A lip lift and lip enhancement can add volume, definition and balance to the lips—whether through a surgical lip lift that shortens the philtrum and everts the upper lip, or through dermal fillers for reversible volume and shape. At The Sculptique Aesthetics in Mumbai, our surgeons and injectors tailor the approach to your anatomy and goals so you get a result that looks natural and in proportion with your face.
During your consultation we will discuss whether a bullhorn lip lift, corner lift, direct lip augmentation or hyaluronic acid fillers—or a combination—best suits you. The goal is a fuller, more youthful lip without an overdone or artificial look.
What it is
A lip lift is a surgical procedure that shortens the space between the nose and the upper lip (the philtrum) and everts the upper lip, creating a fuller, more defined upper lip without implants. The most common technique is the bullhorn lift: an incision is placed at the base of the nose (in the natural crease), a strip of skin is removed, and the lip is lifted and closed with fine sutures. This lengthens the visible red lip, defines the cupid's bow and creates a more youthful proportion. Other options include the corner lift (lifting drooping corners of the mouth) and direct lip augmentation with small grafts or implants.
Lip enhancement can also be achieved with hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers injected into the lip border and body. Fillers add volume and shape and are reversible; they typically last six to eighteen months depending on the product and area. Many patients choose a surgical lip lift for permanent structure and proportion, then use fillers later for fine-tuning or extra volume if desired.
At The Sculptique Aesthetics we assess your philtrum length, lip shape, tooth show and overall facial balance to recommend the right procedure or combination. Incisions are placed and closed with care so scars heal inconspicuously.
Who it's for
Ideal candidates for a lip lift or lip enhancement are adults who want a fuller upper lip, a shorter philtrum, a more defined cupid's bow, improved lip symmetry or reversal of age-related lip thinning. Good candidates are in good general health, do not smoke (or will stop before and after surgery if choosing an operation), and have realistic expectations about scarring and outcome.
A lip lift suits those with a long philtrum or thin upper lip who want a permanent change. Filler enhancement suits those who prefer a non-surgical, reversible option or who want to trial shape before committing to surgery. Some patients benefit from both: a lip lift for permanent structure and fillers for additional volume or refinement. During your consultation in Mumbai we will examine your lips at rest and in animation, discuss your goals and explain which option we recommend and why. We also discuss how a lip lift or enhancement can be combined with other facial procedures such as rhinoplasty or a face lift for a harmonious result.
Benefits
- Fuller, more defined upper lip and improved lip proportion
- Shorter philtrum for a younger, balanced profile
- Natural-looking symmetry and cupid's bow definition
- Long-lasting or permanent result with surgical lip lift
- Reversible option with HA fillers for volume and shape
- Customised to your anatomy: bullhorn, corner lift or fillers
Recovery & results
After a surgical lip lift, swelling is normal and peaks in the first few days. You may have a small dressing or ointment on the incision; we will advise on wound care and when you can gently clean the area. Stitches are usually removed within five to seven days. Avoid strenuous activity, lip strain and wide smiling for the first week or two to protect the closure. Swelling gradually subsides over one to two weeks; the scar at the base of the nose fades over several months and, with careful closure, becomes inconspicuous in the natural crease.
Final lip shape is visible once swelling has fully settled. Results of a lip lift are permanent—the philtrum stays shorter and the lip remains everted. Ageing will still affect the lips over time, but the improvement is long-lasting. Filler enhancement has minimal downtime: mild swelling and possible bruising for one to two days; results are visible immediately and last six to eighteen months depending on the product. We will give you a clear aftercare plan and follow-up schedule so you can enjoy a smooth recovery and a result you are happy with.
Before & after
Drag the slider left and right to compare before and after. Results may vary.
Frequently asked questions
A lip lift permanently shortens the philtrum and everts the upper lip, changing proportion and shape for good. Fillers add reversible volume and can define the border. For lasting structure and a shorter philtrum, a lip lift is usually the best choice; for extra volume or a trial without surgery, fillers work well. Many patients have a lip lift first, then use fillers later for fine-tuning if they want more volume.
The incision is placed in the natural crease at the base of the nose (bullhorn technique) or in the lip border. With careful closure and healing, scars become inconspicuous and are easily hidden. We use fine sutures and techniques to minimise tension so scars fade well. We will discuss exact scar placement and what to expect at your consultation.
A lip lift is permanent: the philtrum stays shorter and the lip remains lifted. You will still age, but the improvement is long-lasting. Filler results last six to eighteen months depending on the product and area; touch-ups can maintain the look.
Yes. Many patients have a lip lift for permanent structure and proportion, then use HA fillers later for additional volume or refinement. Fillers can be placed once the lip lift has fully healed. We will advise on timing at your follow-up.
The bullhorn (or subnasal) lip lift uses an incision at the base of the nose, shaped like a bullhorn. A strip of skin is removed, and the lip is lifted and sutured. This shortens the philtrum, everts the upper lip and defines the cupid's bow. It is the most common technique for a permanent, natural-looking result.
Adults who want a fuller or more defined lip, a shorter philtrum or improved symmetry are good candidates. A consultation at The Sculptique Aesthetics helps determine whether a surgical lip lift, fillers or both are right for you. We assess your anatomy, goals and expectations and recommend a tailored plan.
Related articles
Read more about this treatment and related wellness topics on our blog.
