Treatment Overview
The Horizontal Lip Lift is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to enhance the upper lip by horizontally shortening and reshaping the lip line. Unlike vertical lip lifts that shorten the philtrum, this technique focuses on widening the smile and creating a more youthful, balanced appearance by lifting the corners of the mouth horizontally.
In Korea, this procedure is performed by skilled surgeons using advanced techniques to ensure natural-looking results with minimal scarring and a smooth recovery.
2) Purpose & Benefits
- Widens the smile by elevating the corners of the mouth.
- Creates a more youthful and inviting facial expression.
- Improves facial symmetry and balance.
- Provides a permanent enhancement without fillers.
- Minimizes visible scars through expert surgical methods.
3) Ideal Candidates
- Individuals with downturned or drooping corners of the mouth.
- Those seeking to enhance their smile width and lip contour.
- Patients wanting a permanent lift without repeated injections.
- Healthy adults with realistic expectations of surgical outcomes.
- Candidates prioritizing subtle but effective facial rejuvenation.
4) Possible Risks & Complications
- Temporary swelling, bruising, or redness around the mouth corners.
- Mild discomfort or tightness during healing.
- Visible scarring if surgery is not expertly performed (rare in Korea).
- Infection risk minimized by sterile technique and proper aftercare.
- Minor asymmetry or irregular healing in rare cases.
5) Surgical Techniques Used
- Small incisions made horizontally at the corners of the mouth or just above the lip line.
- Skin excision and tissue repositioning to lift and widen the smile.
- Layered suturing with fine stitches to reduce scar visibility.
- Use of magnification and microsurgical tools for precision.
- Performed under local anesthesia or sedation based on patient preference.
6) Recovery & Aftercare
- Swelling and bruising peak within 2–4 days, improving over 1–2 weeks.
- Avoid excessive facial movements like wide smiling or heavy chewing initially.
- Follow wound care instructions closely to prevent infection and aid healing.
- Most patients resume normal activities within 7–10 days.
- Follow-up appointments to monitor healing and manage scars.
7) Results & Longevity
- Noticeable widening and lifting of the smile immediately after surgery.
- Scars typically fade and become less visible within 6–12 months.
- Permanent improvement in smile aesthetics and facial expression.
- Natural lip movement and expressions preserved.
8) Treatment Process in Korea
- Consultation: In-person or virtual consultation to assess lip corners and smile goals.
- Preoperative Planning: Customized surgical plan developed based on facial proportions and desired outcomes.
- Surgery Day: Procedure lasts about 30–60 minutes under local anesthesia or sedation.
- Surgical Technique: Horizontal skin excision and tissue lift at the corners of the mouth, followed by layered suturing.
- Postoperative Care: Instructions on wound care, activity limitations, and diet provided.
- Follow-Up: Scheduled visits at 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months for healing and scar assessment.
- International Patient Support: Many clinics offer translation services, airport transfers, and recovery packages.
Why Korea is a Top Destination:
- Experienced surgeons with advanced training in lip and facial aesthetics.
- Use of cutting-edge scar-minimizing surgical techniques.
- High standards of patient care and modern facilities.
- Comprehensive support services for international patients.
- Competitive pricing with superior results.
9) Cost Range
The Horizontal Lip Lift in Korea usually costs between ₩2,500,000 and ₩6,000,000 KRW (approximately $1,900 to $4,500 USD), depending on:
- Clinic and surgeon expertise.
- Procedure complexity and any combined treatments.
- Type of anesthesia used.
- Postoperative care and scar management included.
| Service Component | Cost Range (KRW) | Approx. USD |
|---|---|---|
| Consultation & Imaging | ₩150,000 – ₩400,000 | $110 – $300 |
| Surgical Fee | ₩2,000,000 – ₩5,000,000 | $1,500 – $3,750 |
| Anesthesia & Facility Fees | ₩200,000 – ₩700,000 | $150 – $520 |
| Postoperative Care | ₩100,000 – ₩300,000 | $75 – $220 |
10) Popular Clinics in Korea
- Banobagi Plastic Surgery: Known for precision lip and facial rejuvenation.
- ID Hospital: Offers comprehensive cosmetic facial surgeries.
- JW Plastic Surgery: Renowned for meticulous techniques and natural outcomes.
- The Plus Plastic Surgery: Specialists in subtle and effective smile enhancements.
- View Plastic Surgery: Advanced scar-minimizing technologies for optimal healing.
