Treatment Overview
The Central Lip Lift is a cosmetic surgery designed to enhance the appearance of the upper lip by shortening the distance between the base of the nose and the lip’s vermilion border. Unlike the Bullhorn Lip Lift, which uses a subnasal incision hidden beneath the nostrils, the Central Lip Lift is performed directly above the upper lip. By removing a small strip of skin just under the nose, the lip is lifted, revealing more of the pink area of the upper lip and creating a fuller, youthful, and more defined shape.
In Korea, this procedure has been refined with advanced techniques that prioritize precision, minimal scarring, and natural harmony with the rest of the face.
Purpose and Benefits
The goal of a Central Lip Lift is to create a more youthful and proportionate upper lip while improving the balance of the mid-face. Many individuals with a longer philtrum or a flat upper lip notice that their smile looks less expressive. By surgically lifting the lip, more of the vermilion shows, giving the lips a naturally plump appearance without fillers.
Key benefits include:
- Fuller, more defined upper lip without injections.
- More youthful facial proportions.
- A brighter, more engaging smile that shows the teeth naturally.
- Permanent results compared to temporary fillers.
- A subtle yet powerful rejuvenation effect for the lower face.
Ideal Candidates
The Central Lip Lift is ideal for individuals who:
- Feel their upper lip looks long, flat, or aged.
- Have tried fillers but want a permanent, natural result.
- Desire a more defined cupid’s bow and fuller vermilion.
- Are looking for an anti-aging solution that enhances smile aesthetics.
- Want subtle enhancement without a “done” or artificial look.
It is commonly performed on patients in their 30s–50s noticing age-related lip elongation, but is also popular among younger patients seeking better lip-to-face proportions.
Possible Risks and Complications
As with any surgery, the Central Lip Lift carries some risks. Temporary swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort are common in the early recovery phase. Some patients may notice temporary numbness around the incision site. Because the incision is made directly above the lip, scarring is one of the main concerns. However, in Korea, refined micro-suturing techniques and advanced scar care significantly minimize scar visibility. Rare complications include infection, asymmetry, or delayed healing.
Surgical Techniques in Korea
Korean surgeons are highly regarded for their artistry and precision in facial surgery, and the Central Lip Lift is no exception. The standard technique involves an incision placed just above the upper lip line, removing a small strip of skin to shorten the philtrum and lift the lip.
Unique Korean refinements include:
- Micro-incision and layered closure methods for minimal scarring.
- 3D facial analysis to ensure the lip lift complements the nose, chin, and overall balance.
- Customized design based on philtrum length, lip shape, and cupid’s bow definition.
- Combination treatments, such as lip corner lift or fat grafting, for enhanced results.
These advanced methods make Korean Central Lip Lifts especially natural-looking compared to standard approaches.
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery from a Central Lip Lift in Korea is typically straightforward. Stitches are removed within 5–7 days, and most swelling subsides within two weeks. Patients are advised to limit lip movement, avoid smoking, and follow wound-care instructions.
Korean clinics are known for their thorough aftercare programs, which often include:
- Laser scar treatment
- LED light therapy
- Silicone scar gels
- Regular follow-up visits
This integrated aftercare helps scars fade more quickly and ensures smoother recovery.
Results and Longevity
The results of a Central Lip Lift are immediate once swelling resolves. Patients notice a shorter philtrum, fuller lips, and a more defined cupid’s bow. The smile becomes more youthful and expressive, with the upper teeth showing naturally. Unlike fillers, the results are permanent, though natural aging will still affect the lips gradually over time.
Treatment Process in Korea
Korea has established itself as a leading destination for lip lift surgeries due to its advanced technology, meticulous surgical planning, and patient-centered care.
The treatment process usually begins with a detailed consultation and 3D analysis, where surgeons assess facial proportions and simulate outcomes. This ensures the surgery design suits the individual’s features.
On the day of surgery, minimally invasive techniques and fine sutures are used to minimize scarring. Many clinics also combine the procedure with other enhancements such as lip corner lifts, fat grafting, or skin rejuvenation for a more complete facial balance.
Another defining feature of Korean cosmetic surgery is the comprehensive aftercare system. Post-operative care often includes scar treatments like fractional laser or LED therapy, which are integrated into the surgery package. For international patients, many clinics also provide services such as translation, medical coordination, airport pickup, and accommodation support — making Korea one of the most convenient and reliable destinations for this procedure.
Cost Range in Korea
The cost of a Central Lip Lift in Korea varies based on the clinic’s reputation, surgeon’s expertise, and aftercare services included.
- Average Price: ₩2,500,000 – ₩5,500,000 KRW (approx. $1,900 – $4,100 USD).
- Lower End: Smaller clinics with standard procedures.
- Higher End: Premium hospitals with senior surgeons, advanced scar management, and international patient services.
Bundled packages are also common, including consultation, surgery, follow-ups, and additional scar care treatments — adding both value and peace of mind.
Popular Clinics in Korea for Central Lip Lift
Some of Seoul’s most reputable clinics for lip and facial surgery include:
- Banobagi Plastic Surgery – Known for natural harmony and balanced lip surgeries.
- View Plastic Surgery – Offers advanced lip contouring and combination procedures.
- ID Hospital – Korea’s largest cosmetic surgery hospital with extensive facial expertise.
- TL Plastic Surgery – Popular for anti-aging procedures and subtle lip enhancements.
- Nana Plastic Surgery – Trusted by international patients for refined, natural-looking results.
