Who is lip reshaping surgery suitable for?
The lip area can be reshaped, for example, by lifting the upper lip, augmenting the upper or lower lip from the mucosal side, or raising the corners of the mouth. Buffaloplasty (lip lift, bullhorn surgery) is an upper lip lift performed through an incision under the nose with the aim of shortening the area between the nose and upper lip.
What kind of results can be achieved with this treatment?
Buffaloplasty makes the red area of the lip more prominent, making the upper lip appear fuller. Lip augmentation with plastic surgery also enlarges and turns the lip outward. These surgeries are a permanent alternative to fillers. Lifting the corners of the mouth and the edges of the upper lip creates a more youthful and cheerful appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Recovery time
Recovery usually takes about 1-2 weeks, and initially there may be swelling and pain in the area, which can be treated with common painkillers. Buffaloplasty leaves a scar under the nose, but it is located inconspicuously at the bottom of the nose. In a corner of the mouth lift, the scar is located at the edge of the upper lip, at the corners of the mouth. The scar is often red for the first few months, but becomes pale as it matures.
How do I prepare for the procedure?
Weeks before the procedure:
· Our surgeon will assess your health and suitability for the procedure during a consultation. Discuss your wishes and expectations with the surgeon. You may be asked to undergo various laboratory tests and other examinations to confirm your health. Discuss any medications and dietary supplements you are taking with your surgeon. Certain medications (e.g., blood thinners, aspirin, ibuprofen) and some dietary supplements (e.g., omega) may increase the risk of bleeding. You should stop using them according to your surgeon’s instructions.
· Smoking impairs blood circulation, slows down wound healing, and increases the risk of infection. We recommend that you stop smoking at least 4 weeks before the procedure and continue to refrain from smoking after the procedure.
· Eat a varied and healthy diet and exercise regularly. Good general health promotes recovery.
On the day of the procedure:
· Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before the procedure, as alcohol can increase the risk of bleeding.
· Choose loose-fitting, comfortable clothing that is easy to put on and take off.
· Take the medications prescribed by your surgeon in the morning.
· If you are given sedatives, you will not be able to drive yourself home. Arrange for a ride home.
How does the procedure proceed?
During the consultation, you will be given an appointment time for the procedure. Please arrive on time. A nurse will welcome you and go through the procedure with you. If necessary, you will be given sedatives and painkillers, and you will be prepared for the procedure.
In buffaloplasty, the area between the nose and upper lip is shortened by removing skin, with the incision made inconspicuously under the nose. The upper and lower lips can also be enlarged by performing plastic surgery on the mucous membrane side, which leaves no visible scars on the skin and produces a more permanent result than augmentation with fillers. Downward-sloping corners of the mouth can be corrected by removing skin from above the upper lip on both sides of the lip, leaving an inconspicuous scar at the edge of the upper lip.
After the procedure, you can relax and recover in the recovery room, where a surgical nurse will go through the aftercare instructions with you and book you an appointment for a follow-up visit.
What are the aftercare instructions?
After surgery, it is important to follow your doctor’s instructions. The surgical area is usually covered with a dressing that is kept in place as directed by your doctor. You may experience some minor pain, but you can take painkillers if necessary.
Keep the treated area clean by washing your hands thoroughly before touching the area. You can usually shower after 1–2 days, but avoid rubbing and pat the area dry. Saunas, swimming and bathing should be avoided until the wound has healed, which is about 1–2 weeks.
