Lip Lift in Long Island

A lip lift is a surgical procedure that physically shortens the space between the base of the nose and the upper lip (the philtrum), elevating the lip's position and exposing more of the upper teeth and lip vermillion. Unlike dermal fillers, which temporarily add volume through injection, a lip lift produces permanent structural change. Results from fillers typically last 6 to 12 months; lip lift results are long-lasting and do not require repeat treatments to maintain.

Ideal candidates are adults who have a philtrum length greater than approximately 1.5 cm, experience age-related lengthening or drooping of the upper lip, or feel their lips lack projection and youthful fullness. A lip lift is also appropriate for patients who want a more permanent solution than fillers can offer. During your consultation, Dr. Doshi evaluates your facial proportions, skin quality, and goals to confirm candidacy and recommend the right technique for your anatomy.

Dr. Doshi most commonly performs the subnasal bullhorn lip lift, placing the incision in the natural crease just beneath the base of the nose. The resulting scar sits hidden within that contour and is rarely visible once healed. In select patients, a corner lip lift (commissuroplasty) may be added or performed independently to address downturned mouth corners. Dr. Doshi tailors his technique to each patient's proportions to achieve a natural, balanced result rather than an overly ""done"" appearance.

The procedure typically takes between 45 minutes and two hours in Dr. Doshi's Long Island office, depending on whether additional steps such as a fat transfer or corner lift are performed concurrently. It is an outpatient procedure performed under local anesthesia, meaning you go home the same day.

The incision is placed in the natural shadow at the base of the nose, which provides excellent camouflage as healing progresses. Immediately after surgery there will be a fine pink line; by three to six months most patients find the scar nearly imperceptible. Dr. Doshi uses precise, tension-minimizing closure techniques to optimize healing, and will provide specific scar-care guidance during your recovery.

Most patients feel comfortable returning to desk work or remote work within five to seven days. Swelling and mild bruising around the lip and nose are normal and begin to resolve within the first one to two weeks. Sleeping with your head elevated and following Dr. Doshi's post-operative instructions, including avoiding strenuous activity for two to three weeks, helps speed the process. The final refined result is typically visible by three to six months, once residual swelling has fully resolved.

Yes. A lip lift is frequently combined with a fat transfer to add natural volume to the lips or surrounding areas, dermal fillers for additional projection, or facial rejuvenation procedures such as a facelift or brow lift when a patient is addressing multiple areas in a single surgical session. Dr. Doshi will discuss whether combination treatment is appropriate for your goals during your consultation.

The structural repositioning achieved by a lip lift is permanent. The incision removes a carefully measured strip of skin, and that change to the philtrum height does not reverse over time. However, the natural aging process continues, so some patients choose complementary non-surgical maintenance over the years. Unlike fillers, there is no need to repeat the surgical procedure to sustain results.

Lip lift is a low-risk outpatient procedure when performed by a qualified facial plastic surgeon, but as with any surgery, risks exist. These include temporary numbness or altered sensation around the upper lip, asymmetry, visible scarring, infection, and reaction to anesthesia. Choosing a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon such as Dr. Doshi, who operates exclusively on the face, significantly reduces complication risk and optimizes aesthetic outcomes.

Dr. Doshi sees patients at his Manhattan (East 72nd Street), Long Beach, and Huntington locations. You can request a consultation by calling (516) 667-1320 or by completing the consultation request form on this page. Virtual consultations are also available for patients who prefer to connect remotely before their in-person appointment.