Treatment Overview
The Central Lip Lift is a cosmetic surgery that shortens the distance between the base of the nose and the upper lip, creating a more youthful and attractive appearance. Unlike the Bullhorn Lip Lift, which lifts the entire upper lip, the central lift focuses primarily on the center portion of the lip, enhancing the cupid’s bow and adding subtle volume. This technique is widely performed in Korea due to its ability to create refined, natural-looking results with minimal scarring.
Purpose & Benefits
The main goal of the central lip lift is to improve the proportions of the upper lip and rejuvenate the midface. Benefits include:
- Shortening an elongated philtrum.
- Enhancing the cupid’s bow and lip contour.
- Making the upper lip appear fuller without fillers.
- Improving tooth show when smiling.
- Achieving natural and balanced results.
Ideal Candidates
A Central Lip Lift may be ideal for patients who:
- Have a long philtrum that makes the face appear older.
- Want to enhance the central portion of the upper lip.
- Desire subtle, permanent improvement instead of temporary fillers.
- Are in good health and prefer a natural lip enhancement.
This surgery is popular among both younger patients seeking aesthetic refinement and older patients who want anti-aging improvement.
Possible Risks & Complications
As with any surgery, risks include swelling, bruising, asymmetry, numbness, infection, or visible scarring. In Korea, surgeons specialize in precise incision placement under the nose, ensuring scars remain hidden and heal discreetly.
Surgical Techniques Used
The procedure involves making a fine incision beneath the nostrils in the central area, excising a small strip of skin, and lifting the central portion of the lip upwards. Korean surgeons are known for:
- Microsurgical precision to minimize scarring.
- Natural shaping of the cupid’s bow.
- Use of advanced suturing methods for seamless healing.
- Combining the procedure with fat grafting or lip fillers if additional volume is desired.
Recovery & Aftercare
Recovery from a central lip lift is relatively quick. Patients may experience mild swelling or bruising for 5–10 days, with stitches typically removed after about a week. Full scar healing takes a few months, but the incision is hidden in the natural crease under the nose. Korean clinics provide scar treatments, LED therapy, and regenerative skincare to speed recovery and enhance results.
Results & Longevity
Results are permanent, giving patients a youthful, lifted lip and improved balance between the nose, lips, and chin. The central lift enhances the cupid’s bow and creates subtle fullness, while also improving tooth visibility when smiling. Aging continues naturally, but the improved proportions remain long-lasting.
Treatment Process in Korea
Korea is world-renowned for facial cosmetic surgeries, and lip lifts are among the most popular. Korean surgeons use specialized techniques that minimize scarring and focus on natural beauty standards, making results look elegant and refined. Many clinics also combine the central lip lift with skin rejuvenation, fat grafting, or dental aesthetics for a complete smile makeover. International patients benefit from Korea’s advanced surgical technology, English-speaking staff, and luxury recovery services, making it a top destination for lip enhancement surgery.
Cost Range
The cost of a Central Lip Lift in Korea typically ranges from USD $2,000 to $5,000, depending on the clinic, surgeon’s reputation, and whether additional procedures are included. Compared to the US or Europe, Korea offers more affordable prices without compromising surgical quality.
Popular Clinics in Korea
Top clinics in Seoul specializing in lip lifts include Banobagi Plastic Surgery, JW Plastic Surgery, ID Hospital, and View Plastic Surgery. These centers are highly experienced in lip contouring procedures, offering natural and scar-minimized results for both local and international patients
