Face
Lip Lift
Shortens the distance between the upper lip and the base of the nose, increasing the visible vermillion and creating a more defined upper-lip shape.
Overview
A lip lift shortens the philtrum — the distance between the base of the nose and the top of the upper lip — by removing a small strip of skin through an incision hidden at the nasal base. The result is more visible upper lip, a more defined cupid's bow, and a small amount of upward rotation of the lip. The procedure is appropriate for patients whose upper lip has lengthened with age or who have a naturally long upper lip. It is a permanent correction, unlike filler. Design is tailored to each patient's lip proportions and facial features.
Who it's for
The right candidate.
Patients whose upper lip has lengthened with age or who have a naturally long upper lip. Lip lift is appropriate when the goal is more visible vermillion and a more defined upper lip shape, rather than fuller lips overall.
Technique
How it's done.
A small strip of skin is removed at the base of the nose, then closed in layers with fine sutures. The incision hides in the shadow of the nasal sill. The amount of skin removed is measured to each patient's upper-lip length and goal.
Where this happens
Our own surgery center.
One roof, one team.
Dr. Azadgoli operates at The Practice Healthcare's fully independent, on-property ambulatory surgery center — a Medicare-certified, physician-led facility recognized by Newsweek as one of California's top centers for independent, privately owned surgery.
Consultation, surgery, aftercare, and recovery all happen in one building, with the same team. No outside hospital. No new staff to meet the day of surgery. The same person who checked you in at the consult is there when you wake up.
What to expect
From consultation to recovery.
Outpatient under local anesthesia. Sutures removed at five to seven days. Visible result immediately; final settling over three to six months as the incision matures.
Insurance & coverage
Patient Advocacy handles the paperwork.
Our advocacy team verifies benefits, pursues pre-authorizations, and appeals denials. You don't navigate insurance on your own.
Cosmetic procedures are generally not covered by insurance. For reconstructive or medically necessary work, our advocacy team verifies your benefits and presents the out-of-pocket estimate before anything is scheduled.
How we work with insurance
- 1 Verification by expertsOur advocacy team verifies your benefits before any procedure — so we know exactly what is and is not covered.
- 2 Patient advocacy & follow-throughWe aggressively pursue pre-authorizations, appeal denials when appropriate, and hold carriers accountable to their commitments.
- 3 Financial transparencyYou receive a clear written estimate of potential out-of-pocket costs. No surprises on the day of surgery.
- 4 Collaboration with carriersOur team handles documentation and communication directly with your insurance company.
- 5 Options & supportIf a procedure is not covered, we walk you through cash-pay options, financing, and other pathways to care.
FAQ
Common questions.
Will I have a visible scar?
There is a scar at the base of the nose, but in most patients it heals to a thin line hidden in the natural transition between nose and upper lip. Scar quality varies with skin type.
Lip lift or filler?
Filler adds volume but does not shorten the upper lip. A lip lift shortens the upper lip without adding volume. They address different goals; some patients benefit from both.
Is it permanent?
Yes. The result does not require maintenance.
Will I still be able to smile normally?
Yes. The lip lift removes a measured strip of skin under the nose without disturbing the muscles that control expression. Smile dynamics are preserved.
How is this different from filler?
Filler adds volume. A lip lift shortens the upper lip. Many patients have a long upper lip that filler alone won't fix — adding more filler just makes the lip larger without addressing the underlying length.
Will the scar be visible?
There is a thin scar at the base of the nose. In most patients it heals to a line hidden in the natural transition between nose and upper lip. Sun protection during the first year matters for scar quality.
Ready to discuss lip lift?
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Azadgoli and her team to explore your options.
Request a consultation