PA Plastic Surgery Center

Lip Lift

CONVENIENTLY LOCATED TO SERVE NASHVILLE, BRENTWOOD, AND FRANKLIN

Sometimes, a small change makes the biggest difference. At Papillion Aesthetics in Brentwood, TN, the lip lift helps create a more youthful, balanced appearance by shortening the space between your nose and upper lip. Dr. Paul Warner Papillion offers this subtle yet effective procedure for patients in Nashville, Franklin, and nearby communities.

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What Is a Lip Lift?

A lip lift is a minor surgical procedure that improves the shape and position of the upper lip. It shortens the distance between the nose and lip to create a more balanced and lifted appearance. This helps more of the pink upper lip show and often reveals more of the upper teeth at rest. The result is a fuller, more defined lip without adding volume.

Lip Lift Techniques

Dr. Papillion will help you choose the best approach for your features. A few commonly used methods include:

  • Subnasal “Bullhorn” Lift – A curved incision just beneath the nose lifts the center and sides of the upper lip.
  • Corner Lip Lift – Focuses on lifting downturned corners to improve facial expression.
  • Direct Lip Lift – Skin is removed just above the upper lip to expose more of the pink tissue (vermillion).
  • Italian Lip Lift – Uses two small incisions under each nostril for a more subtle result.

Each technique is designed to complement your natural proportions and avoid an exaggerated look.

Who Is a Good Candidate for a Lip Lift?

You might be a good fit for this procedure if:

  • Your upper lip appears too long or covers your teeth at rest
  • You’re looking for more definition without fillers
  • You’d like better lip symmetry or a more visible Cupid’s bow
  • You’re in good overall health and want lasting improvement

Many people choose this procedure as part of their facial rejuvenation plan, especially when their lip shape has altered with age.

Quick Facts:

Lip Lift

Cost: 2000-2500
Downtime: 3 days
Pain Scale: 2
Also known as: lip reduction, lip elevation

What Happens During the Lip Lift Procedure?

The procedure starts with a quick prep in the office. We will administer local anesthesia to numb the area, so while you’ll be awake, you won’t feel any pain. Once the area is fully numb, Dr. Papillion will carefully mark the skin just under the nose to guide the incision.

Next, a small strip of skin is removed to shorten the distance between the nose and upper lip. The incision is placed at the base of the nose, where it’s naturally hidden.

Once the tissue is adjusted, the incision is closed with fine sutures. The entire procedure usually takes under an hour. There’s no need for general anesthesia or an overnight stay—you’ll head home shortly after.

What to Expect After a Lip Lift

Right after the procedure, it’s normal to feel tightness around the upper lip. Swelling and bruising tend to peak in the first 48 hours but start to improve after that.

You should avoid sleeping on your face, stretching your mouth too wide, or applying pressure to the area. Depending on their condition, most patients feel ready to return to light activities within two or three days.

Sutures are typically removed in about a week. While you’ll notice a change in the shape of your lip right away, it can take several weeks for the swelling to resolve fully and the incision to fade. As healing continues, the final result becomes more refined and natural-looking.

Benefits of a Lip Lift

This procedure offers long-lasting improvement in lip shape and balance.

Benefits include:

  • A shorter philtrum and lifted upper lip
  • Enhanced visibility of upper teeth when smiling
  • More defined lip contours without the use of fillers
  • Better harmony between lips and other facial features
  • Minimal maintenance compared to injectables

For many patients, the results are both subtle and impactful. Learn more about this procedure by booking an appointment today.

Cost of a Lip Lift in Brentwood

The total cost of a lip lift can vary based on the technique used and the complexity of the procedure. During your consultation at Papillion Aesthetics, we’ll review your goals, evaluate your features, and provide a personalized quote.

You’ll receive clear, upfront information with no pressure to decide on the spot. We’re here to help you make an informed, confident choice.

Why Choose Papillion Aesthetics

Dr. Paul Warner Papillion is a double board-certified plastic surgeon focusing exclusively on aesthetic procedures. With over a decade of experience and hundreds of surgeries performed each year, he brings excellent precision to every case. His training spans general surgery, reconstructive plastic surgery, and specialized work with facial procedures, giving him a wide and practical skill set.

At Papillion Aesthetics, your care doesn’t stop with surgery. You’ll be supported by a knowledgeable and welcoming team guiding you through every step. From consultation to recovery, the goal is clear communication, safe outcomes, and results that respect your natural features.

FAQs About Lip Lifts

The results are considered permanent. However, natural aging continues and may lead to subtle changes over time.
Most people return to light activity in 2–3 days. Swelling and bruising usually resolve within a couple of weeks.
The area is numbed with local anesthesia. Discomfort is minimal during and after the procedure, and most manage well without medication.
As with any surgery, there’s a small risk of scarring, infection, or asymmetry. Dr. Papillion takes steps to minimize these concerns.
You’ll notice a difference immediately, but full results develop over several weeks as the area heals and swelling fades.

Schedule Your Lip Lift in Brentwood, TN

Ready for a subtle upgrade to your smile? A lip lift could help you achieve the refined, natural look you’ve been thinking about. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Papillion today to get started.