Lip Lift: The mouth undergoes many changes as it ages. The upper lip lengthens and sags, the vermilion thins out and takes on a “set” look, the corners droop, and the architecture becomes muted as the “lip roll” and the philtrum flatten and the “cupid’s bow” loses its curves. Eventually, the lower teeth, rather than the upper teeth, show when the lips are slightly parted. Vertical wrinkles appear, nasolabial creases become furrows, and deepening “marionette lines” give the person a downturned and unhappy look. The lower lip changes similarly but less dramatically.
The lip lift is performed to shorten the long lip of aging, allowing the upper teeth to show again when the lips are slightly parted. It also everts more of the upper lip vermilion, thus making the thin upper lip appear more youthful. The scar that lies in the shadow crease between the nostril sill and the lip is virtually invisible.