Subnasal lip lift, also known as upper lip lift surgery. Related techniques may include corner lip lift and vermilion advancement.
What is a subnasal lip lift consultation?
A subnasal lip lift consultation is an appointment with a qualified surgeon to review concerns involving the length and shape of the upper lip, such as an elongated upper lip, reduced upper tooth visibility at rest, or changes in lip proportion with age.
Only a trained surgeon can determine whether a lip lift is appropriate after reviewing your anatomy, medical history and expectations. The consultation focuses on clinical assessment and suitability rather than promoting any procedure.
What areas does it address?
During the consultation, the surgeon may assess:
ā¢ The distance between the base of the nose and the upper lip border (philtrum length)
ā¢ How much of the upper teeth shows when the lips are at rest
ā¢ Upper lip shape, proportion and symmetry
ā¢ The corners of the mouth
ā¢ Nose shape and nostril base, which can be affected by a subnasal approach
ā¢ Whether non-surgical or conservative pathways may be more suitable
The purpose is to understand your individual presentation and determine whether a surgical approach is clinically appropriate.
Who may be referred for a subnasal lip lift consultation
A GP may refer someone for assessment if they:
ā¢ Have concerns about the length or proportion of their upper lip
ā¢ Seek medical advice about surgical options for the lip
ā¢ Wish to understand whether surgical or non-surgical options may be suitable
A referral does not mean surgery will be recommended. Suitability is confirmed only after full clinical assessment.
How suitability is determined
Suitability depends on several factors reviewed during consultation, including:
ā¢ General health and medical history
ā¢ Upper lip length and facial proportions
ā¢ Tooth show at rest and with smiling, including any planned dental work
ā¢ Skin type and scarring history
ā¢ Smoking status, which may affect wound healing
ā¢ Personal circumstances and expectations
Not all individuals will be candidates. Your surgeon will explain the reasons you may or may not be suitable based on safety requirements and clinical findings.
Understanding what the procedure involves
If the surgeon believes a lip lift may be appropriate, they will outline the general approach in a medical context. This may include broad information about:
ā¢ Incision placement along the base of the nose for a subnasal lip lift
ā¢ How a small strip of skin is removed to shorten the upper lip
ā¢ Alternative approaches, such as a corner lip lift or vermilion advancement
ā¢ Whether local or general anaesthetic may be used
ā¢ What is usually expected during early recovery
These discussions support informed consent only. The surgeon will also explain circumstances where a lip lift is not advised.
Downtime and aftercare
If surgery is advised, general recovery expectations may include:
ā¢ Swelling, bruising and tightness of the upper lip
ā¢ Suture care and removal
ā¢ Temporary changes to speech, smiling or eating comfort
ā¢ Avoiding strenuous activity in the early recovery period
ā¢ Scar care and sun protection
ā¢ Scheduled follow-up visits and signs that require medical review
Recovery varies between individuals. Personalised instructions are provided during consultation.
Surgical or non-surgical?
Surgical
A lip lift is a surgical procedure that must be performed in a licensed and accredited medical facility.
Who performs this procedure?
In Australia, a lip lift must be performed by a registered medical practitioner with appropriate surgical training. This may include:
ā¢ Specialist Plastic Surgeons
ā¢ Specialist Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgeons
ā¢ Other medical practitioners who have completed recognised additional training in facial surgery within their approved scope of practice
All procedures must occur in accredited hospitals or licensed surgical facilities with appropriate anaesthetic and postoperative support.
Patients are encouraged to:
ā¢ Confirm the practitionerās qualifications
ā¢ Ask about their experience with lip lift procedures
ā¢ Ensure the facility meets Australian accreditation standards
ā¢ Discuss postoperative care and follow-up planning
Is a referral required
Yes. People considering elective cosmetic surgery need to follow a regulated pathway designed to support informed and safe decision making. Every person must complete the following steps before any procedure can be booked:
ā¢ A current GP referral is required before seeing a surgeon. This helps ensure your broader health needs are reviewed and that cosmetic surgery is the right pathway to explore.
ā¢ You must attend a minimum of two consultations with the surgeon who would perform the operation. At least one of these appointments must occur in person. These consultations allow time to review your medical history, assess suitability and discuss risks in detail.
ā¢ A cooling off period is required after the final consent appointment. This time is set aside for you to think carefully about the information provided, ask more questions if needed and decide whether to proceed.
These steps apply to all elective cosmetic surgery in Australia. They are in place to support careful consideration and protect patient safety.
Risks and considerations
All surgery carries risks. A lip lift may involve:
ā¢ Visible, raised or widened scarring beneath the nose
ā¢ Asymmetry of the lip or nostrils
ā¢ Changes to nostril shape or width
ā¢ Over-shortening of the lip, which may affect lip closure or appearance
ā¢ Changes in lip sensation or movement
ā¢ Infection or wound separation
ā¢ Changes in skin colour along the scar
ā¢ The possibility of revision surgery
A full risk discussion forms part of informed consent. All risks will be explained during your consultation, including how they relate to your individual circumstances.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a lip lift and non-surgical lip volume treatment
A lip lift is a surgical procedure that shortens the upper lip. Non-surgical lip volume treatments do not change lip length. Your practitioner will explain which approach may be appropriate for your concerns.
Is a lip lift covered by Medicare in Australia
Lip lift surgery performed for aesthetic reasons is not eligible for Medicare. Medicare criteria can change over time, so check eligibility at the time of your consultation.
Do I need a GP referral for a lip lift in Australia
Yes. A current GP referral is required before seeing a surgeon for a lip lift.
Will there be a visible scar
A subnasal lip lift leaves a scar along the base of the nose. Its appearance varies between individuals. Your surgeon will explain expected scar placement and guidance for healing.
What can affect how the lip changes after surgery
How the lip changes over time varies between individuals. Factors such as ageing, skin quality, scarring tendency and sun exposure may play a role. Your surgeon will explain what may apply in your circumstances.
When can I return to work or social activities
This varies depending on the technique and the type of work. Your surgeon will provide a personalised recovery timeline.
