Lip Lift Surgery in Turkey

A lip lift is a minor plastic-surgery procedure that shortens the distance between the nose and upper lip, creating a fuller, more defined mouth and a youthful appearance.

As we age, the upper lip tends to lengthen and lose volume, altering facial balance and reducing tooth show when smiling. A lip lift offers a permanent solution, unlike temporary fillers, and has become increasingly popular among patients seeking natural-looking results. In Türkiye, high-quality care combined with cost-effective pricing attracts many international patients each year.

This guide covers everything you need to know about lip lift Turkey, from techniques and benefits to costs, recovery, and how to choose the right surgeon.

What is a Lip Lift?

Lip lift surgery is a type of cosmetic surgery performed to improve the appearance of the upper lip. The distance between the base of the nose and the upper part of the upper lip (the philtrum) is shortened. With this procedure, the lip is lifted and the pink lip tissue becomes more visible, creating a fuller appearance.

Lip lift surgery is different from lip augmentation or lip implants using fillers. The surgical operation changes the position and shape of the upper lip.

Lip lift surgery, which is a permanent solution, is usually recommended for patients who have lip elongation due to aging or those who want a more balanced facial profile.

Effects of Lip Lift

A lip lift produces both aesthetic and structural changes in the upper lip and surrounding area. The main effects include:

• Shortened philtrum: The vertical space between the nose and upper lip becomes shorter, enhancing facial balance and proportion.
• Increased lip show: More of the upper lip’s pink (vermilion) area is visible, creating a fuller appearance without adding volume.
• Lifted lip corners (in some techniques): Certain lip-lift types subtly elevate the mouth corners, improving facial expression.
• Enhanced tooth show: The upper teeth may be more visible when relaxed or smiling, contributing to a youthful look.
• Permanent change: Unlike fillers, a lip lift’s effects do not diminish over time (though natural aging continues).

These changes result in a more defined, youthful upper-lip contour.

Types of Lip Lift Surgery

Different techniques are tailored to anatomical features and aesthetic goals:

Bullhorn (Subnasal) Lip Lift

A strip of skin beneath the nose is removed and the upper lip is lifted. The scar hides in the nostril creases.

Corner (Smile) Lip Lift

Targets outer mouth corners—ideal for down-turned lips, creating a more pleasant expression.

Italian Lip Lift

Uses two small incisions beneath each nostril for a subtle lift with minimal scarring.

Direct Lip Lift

Removes a strip of skin above the vermilion border for pronounced lip show; may leave a more visible scar.

Central Lip Lift

Removes skin directly below the nose’s center, focusing on the central lip area.

Lip Lift Benefits

• Enhanced lip definition without fillers
• Balanced facial proportions by shortening the philtrum
• Improved smile aesthetics with greater tooth show
• Long-lasting, natural-looking results
• Often reduces future need for fillers

Who Is a Suitable Candidate?

• Elongated philtrum
• Desire for a fuller-looking upper lip without added volume
• Age-related lip changes
• Good overall health and non-smokers (or willing to quit)
• Realistic expectations

A detailed consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon is essential.

Lip Lift Surgery Procedure

The operation is usually performed under local anesthesia in 30–60 minutes:

1. Anesthesia: Local—or local with light sedation.
2. Marking the incision: Typically bullhorn-shaped beneath the nose.
3. Skin excision: A thin strip of skin is removed.
4. Tissue elevation and closure: Lip is lifted; layered sutures minimize scarring.
5. Immediate care: Brief monitoring; home the same day.

Preparing for Surgery

• Medical assessment and medication review
• Pause blood thinners/supplements as advised
• Stop smoking 2–4 weeks prior; avoid alcohol several days before
• Fast 6–8 hours if sedation is planned
• Arrive makeup-free and arrange transport/home rest

Consultation Expectations

• Medical history and facial evaluation
• Standardized photographs
• Discussion of goals and recommended technique
• Risk, recovery, and Q&A

Lip Lift Scarring

Scars are generally well hidden and fade within 3–6 months when aftercare instructions are followed.

Lip Lift Recovery

First Week

• Swelling peaks at 2–3 days
• Mild discomfort; managed with pain relief
• Sutures removed after 5–7 days

Weeks 2–4

• Scar starts flattening
• Light activities resume; avoid heavy exercise

Long Term

• Final results in 1–2 months; scar matures over several months
• Sun protection is critical

Risks & Complications

• Temporary swelling/bruising
• Scarring, typically minimal
• Rare: infection, asymmetry, numbness, delayed healing

Choosing a Plastic Surgeon in Turkey

• Board certification
• Extensive lip-lift experience
• Accredited facility
• Clear communication
• Transparent pricing
• Positive patient reviews

Surgeons

Prof. Dr. Arif Türkmen

One of the first EBOPRAS certificated Turkish surgeon

Prof. Dr. Arif Türkmen was born in the İslahiye district of Gaziantep and completed his primary, secondary, and high school education there. In 1981, he received the Atatürk 100th Anniversary Award...

Prof. Dr. Arif Türkmen was born in the İslahiye district of Gaziantep and completed his primary, secondary, and high school education there. In 1981, he received the Atatürk 100th Anniversary Award. After graduating from İslahiye High School, he entered Ankara University Faculty of Medicine in 1982 and graduated as a Medical Doctor in 1988. In September 1988, he began his residency as a research assistant in the Department of General Surgery at Istanbul University Cerrahpaşa Faculty of Medicine, completing his specialization training in 1994. He fulfilled his compulsory service as a general surgeon in the Orhangazi district of Bursa.

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Non-Surgical Alternatives

Lip Fillers

Hyaluronic-acid fillers add volume and contour but are temporary.

Fat Grafting

Uses autologous fat for longer-lasting, but not permanent, volume.

Related: Fat grafting for face

Combined Surgeries

Common pairings in Türkiye include:

• Rhinoplasty
• Facelift or Mini-facelift
• Blepharoplasty
• Chin augmentation