If you’ve ever looked in the mirror and noticed your smile isn’t quite what it used to be—less teeth showing, more space between your nose and upper lip—you’re not alone. As we age, our upper lip tends to lengthen and flatten, subtly changing our facial balance and expression.
One small procedure can make a big difference: the upper lip lift. I’ve personally undergone this surgery not once, but twice. In my latest YouTube video, I’m sharing everything—what worked, what didn’t, how to prepare, what recovery looks like, and why your choice of surgeon really matters. This is a 3 month post-op update video!
👉 Watch the full video here to follow my journey and get all the details.
What Is an Upper Lip Lift—and Why Consider It?
An upper lip lift is a minor surgical procedure that shortens the space between your upper lip and nose (called the philtrum) while enhancing the visibility of your upper teeth and restoring definition to the cupid’s bow. Despite being a relatively simple surgery, it has a major impact on your overall facial aesthetics.
I chose to have this done because I felt like my smile was changing—I wasn’t showing my teeth anymore, and my upper lip had lost its natural shape. These are common signs of aging, especially as we approach our 40s and 50s.
My Lip Lift Journey: What Happened the First Time
The first time I had this surgery, I loved my results—temporarily. Unfortunately, they didn’t last. Within 3–6 months, I was back to where I started. I realized that even though I loved the look, I needed a different technique and long-term plan to make it worth it.
Second Time Around: What I Did Differently
The second time, I did everything differently—and it paid off.
-
Surgeon selection: I went to Dr. Michael Rossi in San Diego, a close friend and incredibly talented cosmetic plastic surgeon known for his detailed technique.
-
No general anesthesia: This procedure was done under local anesthesia only (just a few cc’s of lidocaine), and I walked out of the office right after. No intubation, no surgical suite, no grogginess—just clean, efficient surgery.
-
Prep + aftercare: I prepped with Botox to reduce muscle movement and protect my incision, and I avoided filler beforehand for a more natural base. I managed swelling with Benadryl, arnica, bromelain, and clean eating.
What to Know Before Getting a Lip Lift
Here are a few key things I’ve learned—both as a surgeon and a patient:
-
Choose a surgeon who performs standalone lip lifts regularly. Avoid those who only offer it as part of a facelift.
-
Ask about their anesthesia approach. Local is best if you're a candidate—less risk and quicker recovery.
-
Check real before-and-afters. Don’t settle for stock photos or someone else's work.
-
Expect swelling. It varies person to person, and in my case, it was intense—but manageable.
-
Give it time. Results settle over 6–12 months. Be patient, and don’t judge too early.
3-Month Post-Op: How I’m Feeling Now
As of writing this, I’m just under three months post-op, and I can genuinely say I’m thrilled. My smile looks like me again. My lip has shape, lift, and balance. And best of all, the results are holding strong.
I haven’t even started laser scar treatments yet—my scar is barely visible thanks to meticulous suturing, pre-op Botox, and diligent aftercare.
Thinking About a Lip Lift?
If you’re considering a lip lift, I made this video for you. It’s honest, educational, and filled with insights I wish I had the first time around. Whether you’re researching surgeons, nervous about recovery, or just curious about results—this is everything I learned, unfiltered.
