How Much Does A Permanent Lip Lift Actually Cost?

Ever since the Kylie Jenner transformation that seemingly started with a plump-up of her lips, the idea of having large, pouty lips has only gotten more and more popular. Lip filler was first introduced to help repair deformities caused by disease, but as people began to see how great it looked, it caught on quickly with the masses. Today, lip filler is one of the most popular cosmetic treatments, but it isn't the only thing you can have done to your lips.

Lip filler and lip injections make the lips look more full, but for some, the actual issue is not the fullness of their lips but rather the height. If this is the case for you, you will likely want to explore a lip lift, which is the process of bringing the upper lip and the bottom of the nose closer together to create a fuller, more pronounced look. But before you call up a cosmetic surgeon, it's important to understand what a lip lift is and how much it costs.

What is a lip lift?

Lip filler is a great, easy way to add fullness and volume to your lips. While the end result of a lip lift is the same, the process is much more involved. A lip lift enhances the upper lip and allows your teeth to show through more. It requires local anesthesia — in some cases, sedation may be needed — and about a week to fully recover. Unlike filler, a lip lift is permanent. Most people who desire a lip lift often begin to notice their lip proportions differ as they age, a common part of the maturing process. But anyone who wants a plumper lip that cannot be done with just filler might be a possible candidate for a lip lift.

There are a few different types of lifts, depending on your current lip volume and positioning. A subnasal bullhorn lip lift, one of the most common procedures, involves pulling the lip up towards the nose with an incision at the base of the nose. Other types include a direct lip lift, which creates a defined border around the lips, or a corner lip lift, which is great for people with a downturned natural smile. While it may be a relatively common procedure, it is not a simple one, and the cost reflects that.

How much does a lip lift cost?

A lip lift can be a great option for people hoping to improve their appearance. Unfortunately, it does cost a decent amount and since it is considered an elective procedure, insurance does not cover it. According to Healthline, the average cost of a lip lift can run anywhere from $2,000 up to $5,000. Depending on the specific type of lip lift you get and your chosen doctor, it could cost even more.

The price may seem high, but a lip lift is a permanent procedure that will last forever, unlike filler or other lip-based procedures. Finding the right plastic surgeon who is well-versed in performing a lip lift is vital, as it does require incisions and surgical skill. Once your lip lift is complete, the downtime is minimal. Expect to stay home and rest for about 24 hours and continue to moisturize and be gentle with the mouth to avoid scarring.