The Amazing Continuous Rise Of The Mainstream Lip Lift Obsession
Why An Upper Lip Lift May Be The Answer You're Looking For
With the rise of social media, the duck-face has essentially become the golden standard of selfies in 2017. As a result, lip augmentation, such as Upper Lip Lift surgery, has gained increased notoriety.
Statistics show that the demand for lip enhancement continues to skyrocket, growing as much as 50% between 2000 and 2016 with no end in sight.
While many people are motivated to achieve an exaggerated, puffy pout, there is also an undeniable, growing desire to reduce prominent facial imbalances.
Dr. Thomas Buonassisi, a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon from Vancouver Canada, experiences the growing propensity of this trend on the regular.
“Upper Lip Lifts are becoming extremely popular,” says Dr. Buonassisi who performs a considerable number of facial surgeries per year through his practice, 8 West Clinic.
“Hyaluronic Acid fillers like Emervel and Juvederm provide the desired volume, however, they may not be the ultimate solution for those looking to reduce an elongated upper lip” he explains. "Patients with such concerns would benefit from Upper Lip Lift Surgery".
Why The Controversial Golden Ratio Makes You Think People Are More Beautiful
And How You Can Reach Your Golden Ratio With Upper Lip Lift Surgery
Dr. Buonassisi advises against removing more than 25% of the distance between the upper lip and the base of the nose; In most cases, between 3 - 5 millimeters is optimal. Working within such guidelines helps to ensure a natural result and balanced facial proportions.
A study performed by the journal Vision Research showed that a person's level of attractiveness is largely based on facial proportions.
According to their findings, the golden-ratio is formulated when the distance from the top of the nose to the center of the lips is 1.6 times the distance from the middle of the lips to the bottom of the chin. Conducted with 20 young adults, research ultimately supported the idea that people are found most attractive with these ideal ratios.
While many people may have otherwise balanced facial proportions, those who miss the mark of this "golden ratio" due to an elongated upper lip may indeed be able to achieve balance with a Bullhorn Upper Lip Lift.
Who Is The Best Candidate For A Bullhorn Upper Lip Lift?
Patients who are hoping to reduce the distance between their nose and mouth may be candidates for a Bullhorn Upper Lip Lift, however, it is important to determine whether a patient displays features that can be improved with surgery and has realistic expectations.
As an expert in facial cosmetic surgery, Dr. Buonassisi attracts many out-of-town patients who travel cross-country to see him. For this reason, 8 West Clinic offers virtual consultations with easy pre and post operative instructions as a courtesy for our distance patients.
Dr. Buonassisi attests to the importance of having a candid and in-depth discussion with each patient. The goal is to address their concerns, educate them on the procedure and ensure that they are suited for the surgery in question. It's not for everyone.
For instance, the Bullhorn Lip Lift may not be the optimal surgery for patients who:
- Have a gummy smile
- Desire added volume to the lips
- Posses a narrow nose at the base
There are several factors which may deter seekers from qualifying for this procedure. It's predominantly for these reasons that (as discussed) consultations are most crucial, aside from the surgery itself.
Why Upper Lip Lift Surgery?
The Number One Reason People Decide On A Bullhorn Upper Lip Lift
The purpose of the Bullhorn Lip Lift is to reduce space between the nose and mouth, thus contributing to the balance and harmony of the face. “As we age it's natural to experience a loss of volume and definition in the lip area, creating the appearance of an elongated upper lip,” says Dr. Buonassisi. “As a result of this, people who naturally possess these features often appear to be older than they are. “
Cosmetically, an elongated upper lip is extremely common and can be disconcerting to many. Subsequently, the Bullhorn Lip Lift technique is a popular surgical solution.
How Dr. Buonassisi Makes A Bullhorn Upper Lip Lift Look Absolutely Natural
And What To Expect During The Recovery
Prior to the start of the surgery, Dr. Buonassisi carefully designs the bullhorn-shaped incisions (hence the name of the surgery) in the natural fold under the nose.
A panel of skin is then excised and the skin below is lifted and anchored into place with the help of strong sutures that dissolve within 7-10 days.
Upper Lip Lift Recovery is normally quite straight-forward:
- Swelling is moderate and is usually resolved within the first 72 hours.
- A cold compress may be applied to the area to help keep swelling at bay.
- Pain is tolerableand can be managed with an over the counter medication, such as Extra Strength Tylenol.
The surgery is performed in-office under local anesthesia. General anesthesia is unnecessary, as this method is widely tolerated amongst patients.
The result is subtle, a poutier appearance with an enhanced vermillion.
Overall, patients can expect an improved smile that naturally showcases the teeth. Scarring is minimal and is virtually unnoticeable once healed.
8 West Clinic showcases a large team of medical specialists who offer a complete spectrum of surgical and non-surgical procedures.
To learn more about the Bullhorn Lip Lift and other procedures or surgeries, feel free to contact our office at 604.733.1669