The distance between the nose and the upper lip is a surprisingly powerful gender cue. A shorter upper lip with visible tooth show and a well-defined cupid's bow is characteristic of a feminine face, while a longer, flatter upper lip is more commonly associated with masculine facial proportions. A lip lift is a small, permanent procedure that creates meaningful change — elevating the upper lip to produce a naturally fuller, more expressive, and feminine mouth.
What Is Lip Lift?
A lip lift permanently reduces the length of the philtrum — the vertical space between the base of the nose and the upper lip border — by removing a carefully measured strip of skin. The procedure elevates the upper lip, increases the visible vermilion (the pink portion of the lip), defines the cupid's bow, and often produces a subtle, natural tooth show at rest. Unlike dermal fillers, which add temporary volume, a lip lift addresses the structural proportions of the lip and its relationship to the nose.
For trans women and transfeminine patients, a lip lift is a valuable complement to broader facial feminization. Testosterone-driven facial development often results in a longer philtrum and a flatter upper lip, and this proportional difference can persist even after other feminization procedures. A well-executed lip lift corrects this in a single brief procedure with permanent results.
Common Concerns Lip Lift Can Address
- A long philtrum that creates a disproportionate distance between the nose and upper lip
- Thin upper lip with minimal pink vermilion visible from the front
- No teeth visible when the mouth is slightly open or at rest
- A flat or poorly defined cupid's bow that lacks feminine contour
Are You a Good Candidate?
- Trans women or transfeminine individuals seeking a shorter, more defined upper lip
- In good health with no active cold sores or oral infections
- Non-smoker or willing to stop smoking before surgery to ensure clean scar healing
Techniques & Options
The amount of skin removed and the exact shape of the excision are determined by careful measurement of your philtrum length, lip volume, and tooth show. The planned incision is marked while you are upright to ensure symmetry and precision. The goal is to remove just enough tissue to achieve natural-looking results, as over-reduction must be avoided and the upper lip should close comfortably at rest.
The primary techniques are:
Subnasal (Bullhorn) Lip Lift
The most widely used technique for gender-affirming lip lifts. A bullhorn-shaped strip of skin is excised along the base of the nose, and the upper lip is advanced upward. The scar is concealed in the natural crease where the nose meets the upper lip. This approach provides the most significant and even lift across the entire upper lip.
- Hidden scar along the natural nasal crease
- Provides consistent lift across the full width of the upper lip
- Defines the cupid's bow and increases vermilion show
- Permanent results with no need for filler maintenance
Modified Lip Lift with Corner Elevation
For patients who also have slightly downturned mouth corners, a modified approach combines the subnasal lift with small corner incisions that elevate the oral commissures. This addresses both philtrum length and a downturned expression simultaneously.
- Corrects downturned corners for a more pleasant resting expression
- Combined with the subnasal technique for comprehensive lip reshaping
- Small corner scars are well concealed and fade quickly
- Addresses both vertical and horizontal lip proportions
Recovery Timeline
Days 1–3
Tightness and mild swelling across the upper lip are the main sensations in the first few days. The lip will feel firm and slightly restricted, and smiling widely may feel awkward. Discomfort is minimal and managed with prescribed medication. Keep the incision clean and dry. Apply cold compresses gently to manage swelling.
Days 5–7
Sutures are removed at your follow-up appointment. Swelling diminishes noticeably and the lip begins to feel more natural. Mild stiffness may persist, and some patients experience temporary tingling or numbness of the upper lip. You can resume light social activities and most daily routines.
Weeks 2–4
The upper lip settles into its new position and the scar beneath the nose begins to flatten and fade. You can wear makeup and lipstick once sutures are out and the incision has closed. Avoid stretching or pulling the lip excessively. The enhanced cupid's bow and vermilion show become more defined each week.
Months 2–6
The scar matures and blends into the natural nasal crease, becoming very difficult to detect. By this stage the lip has settled into its permanent resting position, with lasting improvement in proportion, definition, and vermilion display. No further procedures or maintenance are required.
What to Expect
Safety & Risks
A lip lift is a brief, well-tolerated procedure, but because it modifies a highly visible part of the face, precise technique and careful healing are essential for an optimal result.
- Visible scarring beneath the nose (risk minimised by precise placement)
- Temporary swelling and tightness of the upper lip
- Minor asymmetry of the lip border
- Temporary numbness of the upper lip
- Difficulty closing the lips fully (rare, usually temporary)
- Infection or delayed wound healing (rare)
Precise pre-operative measurements are taken with you in an upright position, and scar placement, symmetry, and the planned degree of lift are reviewed before the incision is marked. Because the philtrum and upper lip are central to facial expression, every millimetre matters, and the expected outcome and associated risks will be explained clearly before proceeding.
How Much Does Lip Lift Cost in Thailand?
Our pricing is transparent and all-inclusive — your quote covers everything from surgeon fees to hospital stay.
Lip Lift
All-inclusive surgical package- Board-certified surgeon fee
- Anaesthesia & operating theatre
- Clinic or facility fees
- Post-operative medications
- Follow-up appointments
- Dedicated care coordinator
Common Questions About Lip Lift
Everything you need to know before your procedure
Dr. Kanokwan Pattanaporn
MEDICALLY REVIEWEDDr. Kanokwan Pattanaporn
MEDICALLY REVIEWEDGender Affirmation Surgeon · Bangkok
Last reviewed: February 25, 2026
Medical References
- Austin HW. The Lip Lift — Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (1986)
- Waldman BK. A Lip Lift for Facial Feminization — Annals of Plastic Surgery (2007)
- WPATH Standards of Care Version 8 (2022)
- Raphael P, Harris R. The Subnasal Lip Lift: Experience and Technical Modifications — Aesthetic Surgery Journal (2014)
Medical disclaimer: Content on this site is provided for informational purposes and should not be treated as medical advice. Outcomes, timelines, and eligibility differ from person to person. Speak with an experienced gender-affirming surgeon before proceeding with any procedure.
What's Included
- Board-certified surgeon fee
- Anaesthesia & operating theatre
- Clinic or facility fees
- Post-operative medications
- Follow-up appointments
- Dedicated care coordinator
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