The shape of your upper lip can affect how youthful your whole face looks. As the area between your nose and lip stretches over time, a lip lift can restore definition.
Dr. Anya Costeloe provides this procedure at Bella Cosmetic Surgery in National Harbor, Maryland. She is double board-certified in facial plastic surgery and otolaryngology, with advanced training focused exclusively on the face, head, and neck. Her approach combines surgical precision with an eye for natural balance.
How a Lip Lift Works
A lip lift is not the same as lip fillers or implants. The goal isn’t to add volume, but to adjust the position of the upper lip to improve its shape and visibility.
There are a few common types of lip lifts:
- Modified subnasal lip lift: A common choice for those with a long upper lip or minimal visible pink lip.
- Corner lip lift: Raises the outer edges of the mouth to reduce a downturned appearance.
- Cupid’s bow lift: Shapes the center of the upper lip.
- Direct lip lift: Removes skin just above the lip for a more dramatic change.
Dr. Costeloe will recommend the right technique based on your anatomy and goals.
Procedure and Recovery
Dr. Costeloe typically performs lip lift surgery in-office using local anesthesia, so you’ll be awake but relaxed throughout the procedure. It usually takes under an hour.
She’ll begin by carefully marking the area beneath your nose, then removing a small strip of skin to gently lift the upper lip. The incision is placed in the natural crease at the base of your nose, where it’s easy to hide as it heals.
You’ll be able to go home the same day and can return to light activities fairly quickly, often within a day or two. Swelling, tightness, or bruising may show up in the first week, but most of that fades within seven to 10 days.
Dr. Costeloe will check your progress and remove your stitches around days five to seven. While you’ll notice a change early on, the final result becomes more refined as your body heals. Most people feel comfortable being out and about again in about a week or two.
Book Your Visit to Bella Cosmetic Surgery Today
Dr. Costeloe performs the lip lift procedure at Bella Cosmetic Surgery’s fully accredited surgical facility, where patient safety and comfort are top priorities.
To find out if this procedure is right for you, call Bella Cosmetic Surgery in National Harbor at 301-567-6767 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Costeloe.
