Subtle Changes to the Upper Lip Can Make a Meaningful Difference

The lips play a central role in facial expression and gender perception. Even small differences in lip height, tooth show, and curvature can influence how the face is read. At FFSNYC, lip lift surgery is approached as a precise, patient-centered procedure that enhances natural femininity while preserving individuality and expression.

What Is a Lip Lift?

A lip lift is a surgical procedure that shortens the distance between the nose and the upper lip, known as the philtrum. By elevating the upper lip, more of the pink portion of the lip becomes visible, and a subtle amount of upper tooth show may be revealed at rest. In facial feminization, a lip lift helps create proportions that are more commonly associated with feminine facial anatomy while maintaining a natural appearance.

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Why Choose FFSNYC for Lip Lift Surgery?

A lip lift requires precise judgment to enhance femininity without altering natural expression. At FFSNYC, this procedure is planned with careful attention to philtrum length, tooth show, and overall facial proportions. 

Our surgeons favor conservative elevation and discreet incision placement to support subtle, elegant outcomes. Patients benefit from an experienced team that understands how small adjustments can have a significant impact on facial harmony. With more than 400 gender affirming surgeries performed each year, FFSNYC emphasizes natural results, advanced planning, and respectful, affirming care. Patients choose FFSNYC for lip lift surgery in NYC because of our experience, attention to proportion, insurance access, and commitment to outcomes that feel authentic rather than overstyled.

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Designed to Enhance Proportion and Expression

Evaluating Lip Length and Facial Balance

Every lip lift begins with a detailed assessment of upper lip length, facial proportions, dental show, and smile dynamics. The surgical team evaluates how the lips interact with the nose, cheeks, and chin to determine whether a lip lift will enhance overall facial harmony. This planning ensures that the procedure supports feminization without appearing exaggerated.

Surgical Technique and Incision Placement

Lip lift surgery typically involves removing a small strip of skin just beneath the base of the nose. The incision is carefully placed within the natural contours of the nostrils to help keep the scar discreet. The amount of lift is customized to your anatomy and goals, prioritizing balance and subtlety over dramatic change.

Creating Natural Lip Fullness Without Fillers

By elevating the upper lip, a lip lift increases visible lip surface area and can create the appearance of fuller lips without adding volume. This approach preserves natural lip movement and texture while enhancing definition. For some patients, this technique reduces the need for injectable fillers or complements existing volume.

Integration With Other Facial Feminization Procedures

A NYC lip lift is often performed alongside other facial feminization procedures such as rhinoplasty, cheek augmentation, or chin contouring. Treating the midface and lower face together allows for smoother transitions and cohesive results. Your surgical team will guide you on whether combining procedures is appropriate based on your overall plan.

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Recovery After Lip Lift Surgery

Recovery from lip lift surgery is typically manageable and relatively brief. Swelling and mild bruising around the upper lip and nose are common during the first one to two weeks. Most patients experience some tightness or sensitivity as the incision heals. Stitches are usually removed within a week, depending on the technique used. 

Patients are advised to limit excessive mouth movement and avoid strenuous activity during early healing. Most individuals return to normal daily activities within one week. FFSNYC provides detailed postoperative instructions, scheduled follow-up visits, and direct access to the care team to support healing and comfort.

Results and Long-Term Outcomes

Results from a lip lift are visible once initial swelling subsides, with continued refinement over several weeks. The upper lip appears more defined, the philtrum shorter, and facial proportions more balanced. Because the procedure removes skin rather than adding temporary volume, results are long-lasting. 

The goal is a natural, feminine lip contour that complements the rest of the face and supports expressive movement without drawing attention to the surgery itself.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is a lip lift always necessary for facial feminization?

No. A lip lift is recommended based on upper lip length, facial proportions, and individual goals. Not every patient requires this procedure.

Will a lip lift change how my smile looks?

A lip lift can subtly enhance tooth show and lip shape, often creating a more open and youthful smile while maintaining natural expression.

How visible is the scar after a lip lift?

The incision is placed beneath the nose and typically fades well over time with proper care, becoming discreet for most patients.

Can a lip lift be combined with lip fillers?

Yes. Some patients choose a lip lift for structural change and use fillers selectively for added volume, depending on their goals.

Schedule Your Consultation for Lip Lift Surgery in New York City

Learn whether a lip lift is the right addition to your facial feminization plan with a personalized consultation focused on proportion, safety, and long-term results.

Patients considering lip lift surgery in NYC are encouraged to connect with FFSNYC to discuss individualized planning, expert care, and affirming support designed to enhance natural femininity and confident self-expression.

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