Lip Lift in Chicago and Vernon Hills, IL

How it Works

The Consultation

At RL Center for Cosmetic Surgery & Medspa, each initial patient consultation is different.

Patients who are interested in a lip lift undergo a consultation in which their medical history is reviewed. Current and past medical conditions are discussed, as are medications and supplements being taken. The face and mouth area are examined and measured, both with the mouth closed and while smiling. Additionally, photographs may be taken so the patient can see the improvement in comparison to how they looked before surgery.

We will be sure to educate you on how the treatments work, including what to expect during and afterward. At the end of your consultation, you will leave our office in Vernon Hills with a thorough, personalized treatment plan. And when you’re ready, we’ll schedule your surgery for a day and time that works for your schedule.

Lip lifts can be performed on their own or are often combined with other facial rejuvenation procedures, like facelifts/necklifts, eyelid surgery, buccal fat pad removal and liposuction of the jawline and neck.  Dr. Lu will listen to your desires and formulate a customized rejuvenation plan.

The Procedure

The lip lift is a minor surgical procedure that can be performed with local anesthesia.

This may be performed alone or with other surgical or non-surgical aesthetic procedures, such as rhytidectomy (facelift or neck lift) and chemical peels or laser resurfacing. In cases where the patient desires a fuller upper lip, in addition to the lip lift, a lip augmentation can be performed with injectable fillers, the patient’s own fat cells, or through a surgical procedure. The end result is a more youthful and proportional lip, with a reappearance of the “red part” of the lip and a brighter, more natural smile.

The Recovery

Most people return to work after just several days. You can expect the incision to be red or swollen for a week to 10 days afterward, and you might have some bruising around your mouth.

Dr. Leonard Lu will advise you to apply cold compresses and take over-the-counter pain meds as necessary. You’ll also need to refrain from smoking and excessive chewing for two weeks.

To improve comfort during the initial healing period, you may find it helpful to sleep on a few pillows to keep your head elevated. Sutures are removed in 5-7 days and scar care will commence shortly thereafter. The worst of the swelling should resolve within one to two weeks, and you can cover the scar with makeup. The swelling and redness of the scar will get better over time and disappear almost entirely in about three months.