Is a Lip Lift Painful?

It’s normal to feel some discomfort during the recovery process, but not during the procedure itself, since it’s performed with sedation and/or anesthesia. During recovery, you may experience some slight discomfort, including swelling, bruising, or tightness. However, over-the-counter pain relievers and ice packs can help alleviate these symptoms. If, for any reason, you are feeling some more moderate pain, reach out to Dr. Lugo, and she can provide you with additional guidance for recovery.

How Many Appointments Will I Need?

You’ll first need to have a consultation with Dr. Lugo, either online or in Athens, to outline your treatment plan and ensure that your results align with your goals. Then, you’ll need to have a pre-operative appointment a few weeks prior to your surgery to go over pre-surgical instructions. This can include halting certain medications, quitting smoking, and preparing your skin. You’ll then undergo the procedure itself, along with at least one to two follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and healing.

How Long Until I See Results?

In the first 7 to 10 days, swelling and mild bruising are expected, which may temporarily affect the appearance of your lips. Most patients see a significant improvement within 2 to 4 weeks, but residual swelling can take up to 3 to 6 months to completely resolve. Once fully healed, the incision will fade into a discreet, barely visible scar hidden along the base of the nose, leaving you with a naturally enhanced lip shape.

Can I Combine a Lip Lift With Other Procedures?

Absolutely, it’s common for patients to undergo other facial cosmetic procedures in conjunction with their lip lift. Doing this can create a more comprehensive transformation and reduce recovery time and costs. Some common pairings include a brow lift or facial lift to correct sagging skin and create a more lifted, youthful look. Additionally, subtle dermal fillers can be used to refine surrounding areas, such as fine lines on the cheeks, marionette lines, and under-eye hollows, for a more balanced and youthful appearance.

What Are the Risks Associated With a Lip Lift?

A lip lift is a safe and effective procedure with minimal risks. However, it is normal to experience swelling, bruising, temporary numbness, or slight asymmetry during the healing process. In rare cases, risks can include infection, excessive scarring, prolonged numbness, or an unfavorable aesthetic outcome if not performed with precision. Following all pre- and post-operative instructions is crucial for a successful recovery and minimizing the risk of complications. During your consultation, Dr. Lugo will discuss your individual risk factors and answer any concerns, ensuring you feel fully informed and confident in your decision.

Lip Lift

Name: Lugo Plastic Surgery
Brand: Lugo Plastic Surgery
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5.0 (159 reviews)

Lip Lift in Athens, GA

Introduction

Lip Lifts in Georgia

Thin lips are a major point of insecurity for many patients. People often feel scrutinized for the thickness, shape, position on our face, and how many teeth are showing — the list goes on. While lip fillers can correct some of these concerns, they can’t correct all of them, nor do they offer a permanent solution. Many individuals have opted for a “lip lift” instead—a highly customized treatment tailored to an individual’s anatomy and concerns, offering long-lasting results. Dr. Lugo in Athens, GA, works with patients across the region seeking alternative solutions to lip enhancements.

What is a
Lip Lift?

A lip lift is an aesthetic procedure that serves as a permanent and more comprehensive alternative to lip fillers. It works by shortening the philtrum—the space between the nose and the upper lip. Unlike temporary lip fillers, which add volume, a lip lift creates a more defined appearance by subtly increasing the height of the upper lip and improving the balance of the facial profile. This treatment involves trimming a small strip of skin just beneath the nose, which lifts the upper lip to reveal more of the pink tissue, thereby enhancing lip eversion and refining the Cupid’s bow. The result is a natural, permanent improvement in lip aesthetics, making the lips appear fuller, more youthful, and better proportioned without the need for ongoing maintenance.

A close-up portrait of a young woman with shoulder-length, light brown hair and blue eyes, looking directly at the viewer with a neutral expression. She has light freckles and is wearing a black camisole. The background appears to be a textured, light gray wall. - Lip Lift in Watkinsville, GA

What Are the Benefits of a Lip Lift?

Lip lifts are both customizable and lasting, eliminating the need for ongoing maintenance. Aside from creating a naturally fuller appearance by lifting the upper lip, it also offers a chance to fix asymmetry in the lips and reshape Cupid’s bow. For those concerned about signs of aging, the procedure can lift potentially sagging skin and reveal more of the upper teeth, which is synonymous with a youthful look. Some individuals are concerned about the proportions of their facial features and where they lie on the face—a lip lift can help shorten the gap between the nose and upper lip, resulting in a more harmonious appearance.

Who Are the Best Candidates For a Lip Lift?

For those in or around Athens, GA, and Oconee County, you may benefit from a lip lift if you:

Are you unhappy with the appearance of your lips, such as their shape, thickness, or position?
Want a permanent solution without ongoing maintenance
Are concerned about signs of aging around the mouth
Have a long philtrum
Don’t smoke and are generally in good health

If you are unsure whether a lip lift is right for you or are interested in exploring other options, you can work with Dr. Lugo either online or in her Athens office to gather information and find what’s best for you.

What’s the
first step?

To explore your options and determine if a lip lift is right for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Lugo virtually or in person at our Athens office. During this appointment, she will assess your facial proportions, lip structure, and overall goals to create a treatment plan. This includes determining incision placement, the amount of skin to be removed, and the ideal shape to enhance your features. If you’re satisfied with the proposed approach, Dr. Lugo will explain the procedure in detail, address any questions you may have, and provide preliminary pre-operative guidance. Once you decide to move forward, we will schedule your surgery along with a dedicated pre-operative appointment to finalize details and ensure you’re fully prepared.

Quad A

Dr. Lugo believes every patient deserves the highest quality of care, which is why Lugo Plastic Surgery is accredited by QUAD A. This nonprofit, physician-founded and physician-led organization has partnered with thousands of healthcare facilities to raise and standardize the quality of care. Through its accreditation programs, QUAD A helps practices like ours demonstrate a strong commitment to patient safety while ensuring consistent, exceptional standards.

QUAD A officially recognizes facilities that have met 100% of its high standards. Accreditation assures the public that patient safety is the top priority. An accredited facility is re-evaluated through a yearly self-survey and an onsite survey every three years. Facilities must continuously comply with all QUAD A accreditation standards between surveys.

Our accreditation certificate signifies that Lugo Plastic Surgery, as an office-based surgery center, has consistently demonstrated the highest level of care and safety in meeting or exceeding all applicable state and federal guidelines.

What to Expect on the Day of Lip Lift Surgery

On the day of your lip lift, you’ll arrive at our Athens office, where Dr. Lugo and her team will ensure you’re comfortable before beginning the procedure, including administering anesthesia and/or a light sedation. Once you’re fully prepped, Dr. Lugo will carefully mark the incision sites. The most common technique, the subnasal “bullhorn” lip lift, involves a small incision hidden just beneath the base of the nose. Excess skin is then removed, and the upper lip is gently lifted to enhance its shape and proportion. Dr. Lugo will close the incision with fine sutures to promote minimal scarring.

The entire procedure typically takes 45 to 60 minutes, after which you’ll be monitored for a short time before being released to go home. Since a lip lift is an outpatient procedure, you’ll need someone to drive you home and assist you for the first few hours post-surgery.

Lip Lift
Recovery

Recovery from a lip lift is relatively smooth, with most patients experiencing mild swelling, bruising, and tightness in the first 7 to 10 days. Sutures are usually removed within 5 to 7 days, and while initial healing occurs within two weeks, subtle residual swelling may take a few months to subside fully. Dr. Lugo will provide aftercare instructions, including keeping the incision site clean, avoiding excessive facial movements, and sleeping with your head elevated to reduce swelling. You should also refrain from strenuous exercise for at least two weeks to prevent unnecessary strain on the healing tissue. Most patients feel comfortable returning to work and normal activities within 7 to 10 days, though full results will continue to refine over the following months.

How Much Does a Lip Lift Cost in Athens, GA?

The cost of a Lip Lift in Oconee County and Athens is, on average, $4,000. The price can vary depending on the individual, as factors such as the in-depthness of the procedure and the surgeon’s experience also contribute to the overall cost. As part of your consultation with Dr. Lugo, you will discuss the cost of your specific procedure, broken down, and explore financing options if needed. Many patients compare the cost against fillers, which, in the long run, tend to be much more affordable due to the lack of maintenance needed.

Why Choose Dr. Lugo?

Dr. Liana M. Lugo, founder and medical director of Lugo Plastic Surgery, is a board-certified plastic surgeon who has helped countless patients achieve their aesthetic goals. Dr. Lugo brings a woman’s perspective and qualities to help her patients achieve excellent outcomes.

Lip Lift FAQ’S

It’s normal to feel some discomfort during the recovery process, but not during the procedure itself, since it’s performed with sedation and/or anesthesia. During recovery, you may experience some slight discomfort, including swelling, bruising, or tightness. However, over-the-counter pain relievers and ice packs can help alleviate these symptoms. If, for any reason, you are feeling some more moderate pain, reach out to Dr. Lugo, and she can provide you with additional guidance for recovery.
You’ll first need to have a consultation with Dr. Lugo, either online or in Athens, to outline your treatment plan and ensure that your results align with your goals. Then, you’ll need to have a pre-operative appointment a few weeks prior to your surgery to go over pre-surgical instructions. This can include halting certain medications, quitting smoking, and preparing your skin. You’ll then undergo the procedure itself, along with at least one to two follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and healing.
In the first 7 to 10 days, swelling and mild bruising are expected, which may temporarily affect the appearance of your lips. Most patients see a significant improvement within 2 to 4 weeks, but residual swelling can take up to 3 to 6 months to completely resolve. Once fully healed, the incision will fade into a discreet, barely visible scar hidden along the base of the nose, leaving you with a naturally enhanced lip shape.
Absolutely, it’s common for patients to undergo other facial cosmetic procedures in conjunction with their lip lift. Doing this can create a more comprehensive transformation and reduce recovery time and costs. Some common pairings include a brow lift or facial lift to correct sagging skin and create a more lifted, youthful look. Additionally, subtle dermal fillers can be used to refine surrounding areas, such as fine lines on the cheeks, marionette lines, and under-eye hollows, for a more balanced and youthful appearance.
A lip lift is a safe and effective procedure with minimal risks. However, it is normal to experience swelling, bruising, temporary numbness, or slight asymmetry during the healing process. In rare cases, risks can include infection, excessive scarring, prolonged numbness, or an unfavorable aesthetic outcome if not performed with precision. Following all pre- and post-operative instructions is crucial for a successful recovery and minimizing the risk of complications. During your consultation, Dr. Lugo will discuss your individual risk factors and answer any concerns, ensuring you feel fully informed and confident in your decision.

5.0

Patient Reviews

I cannot say enough wonderful things

I cannot say enough wonderful things about Dr. Lugo and her amazing staff. From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted with genuine warmth and kindness that immediately puts you at ease. Dr. Lugo is not only incredibly knowledgeable and skilled in her field, but she also takes the time to truly listen, explain, and make sure you feel comfortable with every step of the process.

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Dr. Lugo is incredible

I am extremely satisfied with Dr. Lugo’s services. Dr. Lugo is incredible. You can truly see the care and perfection she puts into her work. I am absolutely thrilled with the results of my procedure. After leaving Dr. Lugo’s consultation, I was completely convinced to go through with the surgery. She made me feel confident, and I had no doubts about choosing her.

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My results were life-changing

Words cannot begin to describe my absolute pleasure with Lugo Plastic Surgery. First and foremost, Dr. Lugo is so thorough and genuinely cares about her patients and her work. Each and every single staff member has always been so kind and willing to help with anything needed. The office is nice and clean, appointments run on time, and not a long wait. My results were life-changing for me, and I couldn’t have chosen a more caring, compassionate, and professional surgeon if I tried.

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Dr. Lugo has been great!

Dr. Lugo has been great! From my very first consultation to my surgery, she was very thorough in explaining the process and answered any questions I had before I could ask them! The surgery went so well and I’m very pleased! She is sweet, kind, and great at her job! Can’t recommend her enough

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Dr. Liana M. Lugo is truly phenomenal

Dr. Liana M. Lugo is truly phenomenal. From my very first consultation, I felt an instant connection with her. She is not just a surgeon—she’s a healer, a creator, and a perfectionist in her craft. After my myomectomy, I was left with severe scarring from previous doctors who had mishandled my procedure. Dr. Lugo completely transformed my results, correcting the scarring from previous procedures and leaving me with a beautifully refined and natural-looking result.

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Testimonials

Schedule a Consultation

To explore your options and see how a lip lift can benefit you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Lugo either online or in Athens. You can call us at (706) 707-5854 or schedule your appointment by filling out our online form.

@drlianamlugo

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