Jawline Liposuction Sydney
Jawline Liposuction Sydney Table of Contents Dr Mark Kohout, Specialist Plastic Surgeon based in Sydney, Australia, offers a professional, considered approach to jawline liposuction. This procedure targets localised fat in
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What a
Lip Lift
A lip lift is a surgical procedure designed to reduce the distance between the base of the nose and the upper lip. This adjustment may support facial balance and increase the visibility of the upper teeth when the lips are at rest. In some individuals, the area between the nose and upper lip may appear longer due to natural ageing processes, genetics, or previous cosmetic treatments. A lip lift does not add volume to the lips like filler treatments. Instead, it modifies the shape and position of the upper lip to alter the appearance of the lower third of the face.
At Australia Cosmetic Clinics, lip lift surgery is planned with consideration of each person’s unique facial features. The procedure is typically performed as day surgery under local anaesthesia, with or without sedation. Most patients return home the same day and resume regular, non-strenuous activities within about a week. The procedure takes between 60 and 90 minutes, and stitches are usually removed within 5 to 7 days. While swelling typically reduces within a few weeks, the area around the incision continues to settle over several months.
We focus on patient-centred care, supporting each individual through a structured process that includes consultation, planning, surgery, and follow-up. Our team aims to provide clear information to help patients make decisions that align with their personal preferences.
Take our Plastic Surgery Quiz to find out if you’d be a good candidate and if you are ready for the surgery.
Understanding the Lip Lift Procedure
The upper lip and the skin between the lip and the base of the nose influence the appearance of the lower part of the face. Over time, this area can lengthen due to natural ageing or individual facial characteristics. In some cases, this change may result in the upper lip appearing lower in position or less visible when the mouth is relaxed.
A lip lift is a surgical technique that modifies this area. During the procedure, a carefully measured segment of skin is removed from beneath the nose. This allows the upper lip to be raised and rotated outward. As a result, more of the pink portion of the upper lip becomes visible, and the space between the nose and the lip is shortened. The overall change can contribute to a modified appearance of the upper lip without increasing lip volume.
A lip lift differs from injectable lip augmentation. While fillers are designed to temporarily increase lip volume, a lip lift provides a structural change in lip position. Depending on the patient’s anatomy and aesthetic preferences, one option may be more appropriate than the other. Lip lift surgery may appeal to individuals who are seeking a lasting adjustment or who prefer not to use dermal fillers.
At Australia Cosmetic Clinics, each lip lift is tailored based on detailed facial assessment. Our approach involves precise planning and surgical technique to support outcomes that align with the patient’s appearance and facial proportions. The incision is typically placed in the natural crease beneath the nose to help reduce the visibility of scarring. Suturing is carried out using refined methods intended to assist with incision healing.
Is a Lip Lift Right for You?
Whether a lip lift is suitable depends on a number of personal factors. Some individuals consider this procedure because they feel the space between their nose and upper lip is relatively long. Others may be interested in modifying the appearance of their upper lip without increasing its volume.
A lip lift may be considered by individuals who feel their upper lip does not show as much as they would prefer, or who have previously tried injectable fillers and are now seeking an alternative that involves a different structural change. The procedure may also be discussed with patients whose upper lip position contributes to a facial proportion they wish to modify.
People considering a lip lift are generally in good overall health, do not smoke, and understand the recovery and care requirements associated with this procedure. An important part of the consultation involves discussing scarring, which is an expected part of surgery. Although the incision is placed in a location intended to reduce visibility, it is important that patients are aware of how scars may evolve over time.
During your consultation at Australia Cosmetic Clinics, your surgeon will examine your facial features, listen to your concerns, and offer a professional opinion based on clinical experience. You will have an opportunity to ask questions, review relevant information, and consider whether this procedure supports your individual goals.
What a
Lip Lift
May Help
Address?
A lip lift may be suitable for individuals who are looking to adjust facial features such as:
- A longer space between the upper lip and base of the nose
- Reduced visibility of upper teeth when the lips are relaxed
- A preference for an alternative to volume-based treatments
- Changes in the lip area related to ageing or individual facial structure
It is important to emphasise that a lip lift is not intended to dramatically change lip volume or alter the overall structure of the face. The procedure is typically used for subtle adjustments based on anatomical characteristics.
Visual Reference: Lip Lift Outcomes
Before-and-after photographs are available during your consultation, provided with patient consent and in accordance with AHPRA advertising guidelines. These images are presented for educational purposes only and are not intended to suggest specific outcomes. Individual results vary depending on anatomy, healing, and surgical factors.
How the Lip Lift is Performed
Lip lift surgery is generally performed under local anaesthesia in a day procedure setting. Patients remain awake but comfortable during the operation. In some cases, light sedation may be offered depending on the individual’s preference and clinical recommendation.
At Australia Cosmetic Clinics, the most commonly used technique is known as the bullhorn lip lift. This involves a carefully planned incision beneath the nose, within the natural crease where the nose meets the upper lip. A strip of skin and tissue is removed, and the lip is gently elevated. The incision is then closed using fine sutures.
The positioning of the incision is planned to help reduce its visibility. Most patients return home on the same day and are provided with instructions to support healing. The procedure usually takes about 60 to 90 minutes.
CLICK to Download Dr Mark Kohout’s Facial Aesthetics Guide
Possible Risks and Considerations
All surgical procedures carry risks. During your consultation, your surgeon will provide detailed information about potential complications so you can make an informed decision. Risks associated with a lip lift may include:
- Swelling and bruising
- Infection
- Sensory changes in the lip
- Scarring
- Asymmetry
- Additional procedures if the result is not as expected
At Australia Cosmetic Clinics, our surgeons follow established safety protocols and are trained in managing surgical care. While many procedures are completed without complication, we ensure that patients are fully informed about all potential risks and recovery processes.
What to Expect After Surgery
After surgery, it is common to experience swelling, tightness, and mild bruising in the upper lip area. These effects are typically most noticeable in the first few days and gradually reduce during the first week.
Detailed post-operative instructions will be provided, including how to keep the area clean, how to manage discomfort, and what to look out for in terms of healing. Most patients can return to non-strenuous activities within 5 to 7 days. More active or physically demanding activities should be postponed for a longer period, as advised by your surgeon.
Sleeping with the head elevated may help support the healing process. Sutures are typically removed after one week, and most swelling settles within two to three weeks. Scar care measures such as silicone-based treatments may be discussed to support the long-term appearance of the incision site.
Ongoing Care and Longer-Term Results
Healing continues for several months after surgery. During this period, the scar may continue to change in appearance, often becoming lighter and less noticeable over time. To support ongoing care, patients are advised to:
- Use sunscreen regularly to protect healing skin
- Follow scar care instructions as recommended by the surgeon
- Attend follow-up appointments for progress review
Results from a lip lift are typically visible within several weeks, although the final appearance continues to develop over time. While a lip lift creates a lasting adjustment in lip position, it does not stop natural ageing or the effects of lifestyle and environmental exposure. Patients who maintain their general skin health may notice more consistent outcomes over the long term.
Our clinical team remains available during the recovery process and encourages patients to get in touch if questions or concerns arise.
Planning for Costs: Lip Lift
The total cost of a lip lift at Australia Cosmetic Clinics includes several components, such as the surgeon’s fee, anaesthesia, theatre time, and post-operative care. During your consultation, you will receive a written quote that reflects your personalised treatment plan.
As this is a cosmetic procedure, lip lift surgery is not covered by Medicare or private health insurance. Payment plan options may be available for eligible patients and can be discussed with our team during your visit.
Lip Lift FAQs
Can a lip lift affect how I speak or smile?
Temporary tightness in the upper lip is common during early healing, which may slightly alter lip movement for a short time. These effects usually settle as the tissue adjusts and swelling reduces.
Will the scar always be visible?
The incision is placed in the natural crease beneath the nose, which helps reduce its visibility. With time, appropriate care, and scar management, the appearance of the scar typically becomes less noticeable.
Is a lip lift suitable for someone with thinner lips?
A lip lift can adjust the position and shape of the upper lip, which may give the appearance of increased height in the pink lip area. However, it does not increase volume, and results depend on individual anatomy.
Can a lip lift be reversed if I change my mind?
Lip lifts are permanent surgical procedures and reversal is not straightforward. Revision options exist in specific situations, but restoring original anatomy may not always be possible.
Is it common to combine a lip lift with other procedures?
Some patients choose to have a lip lift performed alongside procedures like rhinoplasty or chin surgery, particularly if facial balance is a shared concern. This is assessed on a case-by-case basis.
How long does the tight feeling in the upper lip last?
Tightness is often most noticeable in the first week after surgery and usually reduces as swelling settles. Full softening of the tissues may take several weeks.
Can this procedure help with lipstick bleeding into lines above the lip?
A lip lift does not directly address perioral lines, but by elevating the lip, it may reduce the visual prominence of this area in some patients. Specific treatment for fine lines may still be needed.
Does smiling stretch the scar or affect healing?
Normal facial movement, including smiling, is not likely to affect the final result once initial healing is complete. In the first two weeks, it is advisable to limit excessive lip movement as directed by your surgeon.
Are the results of a lip lift immediately visible?
There is noticeable change right after surgery, but swelling and tissue settling may obscure the final result. Most patients see a clearer picture of their outcome by 6 to 8 weeks.
Can I wear makeup over the incision area?
Once the incision has closed and any crusting has resolved, gentle makeup may be used to help conceal redness. Your surgeon or nurse will advise when it is appropriate to begin.
Medical References
- Benjamin Talei, MD & Steven J Pearlman, MD CUPID Lip Lift: Advanced Lip Design Using the Deep Plane Upper Lip Lift (Aesthetic Surgery Journal, 2022)
- The Tri-Lift suspension technique: a modified deep‑plane lip lift (Maxillofacial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 2025)
- Subnasal Lip Lift and Its Effect on Nasal Esthetics (Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery) ScienceDirect
How to Prepare for Your Procedure
Preparing for surgery supports both the procedure itself and the recovery that follows. Prior to your surgery, you will attend a pre-operative consultation where your surgeon will review your medical history, conduct a physical assessment, and provide detailed information about the procedure.
You may be advised to:
- Stop smoking several weeks before surgery, as smoking may affect healing
- Avoid certain medications and supplements that may increase bleeding
- Make arrangements for transport and a support person on the day of surgery
You will receive written instructions that outline steps to follow before and after your procedure. These are designed to support a steady and well-managed recovery.
Why Choose Australia Cosmetic Clinics for Lip Lift Surgery
Australia Cosmetic Clinics offers patient-centred surgical care delivered by specialist plastic surgeons with years of experience in facial procedures. Our team works within accredited surgical facilities and follows national guidelines to support clinical safety and professionalism.
From your first consultation through to post-operative review, we aim to guide each step of the process with clear communication and clinical care. We welcome individuals considering lip lift surgery to contact our team for more information or to schedule a confidential consultation.
Do you have questions?
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Get in Touch
Specialist Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Mark Kohout
Dr. Mark Kohout (MED0001133000) is a fully qualified specialist plastic and reconstructive surgeon with over 25 years of experience, based in central Sydney.
Trained in Great Britain, Australia, and the U.S., he co-founded Australia Plastic Surgery. Specialising in breast, genital, and male breast surgeries, he is a certified member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the Royal Australian College of Surgeons (RACS).
Dr. Kohout has appeared in media like The Biggest Loser and has published several articles in his field.
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