WHAT it is:
A Lip Lift is an in-office procedure that removes skin between the nose and upper lip to lift the top lip and create a fuller appearance.
HOW it’s done:
Dr. Politis starts by measuring and marking the skin beneath the nose that is to be removed. Then an incision is made along the lines and the excess skin is removed. The remaining skin is pulled up and stitched together, concealed under the nose.
WHAT to expect:
Drainage. Drainage can occur from the incision sites for the first week. The drainage will be blood-tinged.
Bruising. You can expect to have bruising. Most bruises will heal after about 2-3 weeks. The bruise will go from a purplish color to a yellow/green shade as it starts to resolve.
Swelling. Swelling is to be expected for a few weeks or more. The swelling can improve with intermittent rest and compression garments. Exercise and physical activity can transiently worsen swelling but is encouraged.
Itching. Itching at the incision sites is normal for the first few weeks. You may take Benadryl to help with this.
Pain. It is normal to experience tightness, pressure, soreness, and fatigue for several days to weeks following surgery as you recover.
Sensory Changes in Skin. You may feel reduced or heightened sensation in the upper lip and surrounding area. This is normal. You can expect return of normal sensation after a few weeks to months.
AWAKE or ASLEEP:
RECOVERY, RESULTS & FREQUENCY:
This procedure has a 5-7 day recovery window. Although this is a permanent fix to fuller lips, you can receive this procedure again if you desire a more lifted look in the future.
PRE-OP instructions:
Have a light breakfast 60-90 minutes prior to coming into the office.
Once you’re here, we’ll take photos and you’ll be given a cozy gown, an oral electrolyte, an antibiotic, anti-nausea medication, and a light oral sedative.
POST-OP instructions:
Movement is Important. Make sure to get out of bed and be up and walking around immediately after your surgery. When lying down in bed or on the couch, make sure you are moving your legs and ankles. Take deep breaths frequently to keep your lungs clear.
Talking. Avoid excessive talking, laughing, and chewing as this will cause more swelling and discomfort.
Sleep. Sleep on your back with your head elevated about 30-40 degrees (2-3 pillows). Do not sleep on your side. Keeping your body more upright will minimize swelling. Continue this for one to two weeks.
Pain. You can take Tylenol (Acetaminophen) for discomfort. Do not take more than 3000mg of Tylenol in a 24 hour time frame.
Medications to Avoid. Take only those medications approved or prescribed by your surgeon. Avoid medications containing aspirin or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, Naproxen, others) for two weeks before and after surgery. These medications may increase bleeding.
Diet. Eat foods that are soft and require minimal chewing for 3-4 days. Do not eat salads, tough meats, or chew gum. No hot or salty foods or fluids for 48 hours. Avoid any foods that require you to open your mouth wider than 1 inch and use small utensils while eating.
Hydration. Stay hydrated by drinking 8-10 glasses of water a day. Avoid alcohol while you are still having to take pain medications.
Lip Movement. Avoid any stretching of the upper lip that could put strain on the incision below the nose or cause incision site opening.
Physical Activity. It is important to get up, walk around, and not remain on complete bed rest while your body recovers. Normal daily activity may be resumed a few days after surgery. No bending over, straining, or lifting more than 5lbs for the first week after surgery.
Exercise. Light physical activity may be resumed 2-3 weeks after surgery. Remember to start easy and build back up to your previous exercise levels. Just know that swelling may transiently be worse with exercise.
Sexual Intercourse. Sexual activity can be resumed when you feel ready with no restrictions and incisions have adequately healed.
Cold Compress. Use cool/moist compresses or ice wrapped in a small towel for 24-48 hours to reduce swelling. You may use apply a compress for 20 minutes at a time and take a breaks every so often. No Direct Ice!
