Lip Lift in Manchester and Cheshire

Performed by

Mr Reza Nassab FRCS (Plast)

Consultant Plastic Surgeon offering surgical lip lift — subnasal, Cupid Lift and Deep Plane techniques — to shorten the upper lip, increase tooth show, and create natural, lasting improvement without filler.

FRCS (Plast) GMC Registered 15+ Years Experience BAAPS Member Local Anaesthetic
Lip Lift — At a Glance
Procedure TypeMinor Surgery
AnaestheticLocal Anaesthetic
Duration45–60 minutes
Hospital StayDay case (outpatient)
Suture Removal5–7 days
Return to Work1–2 weeks
Price£4,000
reza nassab icon

What is a Lip Lift?

A lip lift, also known as lip shortening, is a surgical procedure designed to enhance the appearance of the upper lip by reducing its length. The goal is to create a more youthful and balanced look, improving the proportions between the lips and other facial features. This procedure is particularly popular among individuals seeking a more defined lip contour and a natural enhancement without the need for fillers.

Changes in the Upper Lip with Age

As we age, our facial features undergo various changes, and the upper lip is no exception. Key changes include:

Lengthening of the Upper Lip

The distance between the base of the nose and the upper lip increases, giving a more aged appearance.

Volume Loss

The lips lose their fullness and plumpness due to the gradual decline in collagen and fat.

Decreased Tooth Visibility

With the elongation of the upper lip, the visibility of the upper teeth diminishes, altering the smile's aesthetics.

Formation of Wrinkles

Fine lines and wrinkles, often referred to as "smoker's lines," become more prominent around the lips.

Why Does the Upper Lip Lengthen?

The elongation of the upper lip is primarily attributed to the natural aging process. Factors contributing to this include:

  • Loss of Elasticity: The skin loses its elasticity due to decreased collagen and elastin production.
  • Gravitational Pull: The constant effect of gravity causes the skin and underlying structures to sag over time.
  • Sun Damage: Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays accelerates skin aging, leading to collagen breakdown and skin laxity.
  • Repetitive Movements: Everyday activities like talking, eating, and facial expressions contribute to the gradual stretching of the upper lip.

How is a Lip Lift Surgery Performed?

With a lip lift Manchester patients receive a straightforward procedure that involves the following steps:

  1. Consultation: A detailed consultation with Mr Nassab to assess your goals, expectations, and overall suitability for the procedure.
  2. Marking: The surgeon marks the area beneath the nose where the incision will be made. The most common technique is the subnasal or "bullhorn" lip lift, where the incision follows the natural contour of the nostrils. Another popular technique is the Cupid Lift described by Dr Ben Talei in Beverley Hills. There also other techniques such as the Deep Plane Lip Lift which uses more undermining when performing the lift.
  3. Anaesthesia: The procedure is typically performed under local anaesthesia ensuring comfort and safety.
  4. Incision: An incision is made along the marked area.
  5. Excision: A small strip of skin is removed from beneath the nose.
  6. Repositioning and Suturing: The remaining skin is lifted and sutured into place, effectively shortening the upper lip and enhancing the lip’s prominence.

Why Choose Mr Reza Nassab for Your Lip Lift

The lip lift is a small procedure with a permanently visible result — making technical precision and aesthetic judgment paramount to achieving a natural, balanced outcome.

Multiple Techniques

Subnasal, Cupid & Deep Plane

Mr Nassab offers the classic subnasal (bullhorn) technique, the Cupid Lift as described by Dr Ben Talei, and the Deep Plane Lip Lift for patients requiring more tissue undermining — selecting the approach best matched to your anatomy and goals.

Discreet Scarring

Scar Hidden in Natural Crease

Incisions are placed precisely within the natural crease at the base of the nose. Meticulous layered closure and personalised scar care guidance help scars mature to a barely visible fine line.

Natural Aesthetics

Position, Not Just Volume

By repositioning the lip rather than filling it, Mr Nassab achieves results that look inherently natural — improved proportion, enhanced Cupid's bow definition, and increased tooth show without the telltale signs of filler.

Benefits of a Lip Lift

Opting for a lip lift in Manchester offers several benefits, including:

Youthful Appearance

Reduces the elongated appearance of the upper lip, giving a more youthful and refreshed look.

Improved Lip Shape

Enhances the definition and fullness of the upper lip, contributing to better facial harmony.

Enhanced Smile

Increases the visibility of the upper teeth, creating a more attractive smile.

Minimal Scarring

When performed by an experienced surgeon, the scarring is minimal and well-concealed under the base of the nose.

Long-lasting Results

Provides permanent improvements compared to temporary solutions like dermal fillers.

Cost of a Lip Lift

The cost of a lip lift surgery can vary based on several factors, including the surgeon's expertise, geographic location, and facility fees. At CLNQ, our prices for the lip lift is £4000. The consultation fee is £100 for assessment with Mr Nassab.

Suitability for the Lip Lift Procedure

Ideal candidates for a lip lift are individuals who:

  • Have an Elongated Upper Lip: Those with a naturally long upper lip that disrupts facial balance.
  • Seek Better Tooth Visibility: Individuals who want their upper teeth to be more visible when smiling.
  • Desire a More Defined Lip: Those looking to achieve a fuller and more pronounced upper lip without using fillers.
  • Are in Good Health: Candidates should be in good overall health and free from conditions that could impair healing.
  • Have Realistic Expectations: It is crucial to have a clear understanding of the procedure's potential outcomes and risks.

Consultation and Aftercare

A successful lip lift begins with a comprehensive consultation where you and Mr Nassab discuss your goals, medical history, and any concerns. During the consultation, we will:

  • Assess your facial structure and skin condition.
  • Explain the procedure in detail, including the techniques used, risks, and expected outcomes.
  • Provide a personalized treatment plan.

Post-surgery, it is vital to follow the aftercare instructions to ensure optimal healing and results. Typical aftercare involves:

  • Managing Swelling and Discomfort: Using prescribed medications if required and cold compresses to reduce swelling and discomfort.
  • Keeping the Incision Clean: Maintaining proper hygiene to prevent infection and promote healing.
  • Avoiding Strenuous Activities: Limiting physical activities that could strain the surgical site.
  • Attending Follow-up Appointments: Regular check-ups with the surgeon to monitor healing progress and address any concerns.

Conclusion

A lip lift or lip shortening procedure is an effective way to rejuvenate the face by enhancing the appearance of the upper lip. It offers a range of benefits, from a more youthful look to improved lip shape and smile aesthetics. If you are considering this procedure, book your consultation with Mr Nassab to discuss your options and ensure you are a suitable candidate. With the right care and expertise, at our office in Manchester lip lifts can provide significant, lasting improvements to your facial appearance.

Lip Lift Frequently Asked Questions

What is a lip lift?

A lip lift is a small surgical procedure that shortens the upper lip (philtrum) — the distance between the base of the nose and the upper lip border. By removing a precise strip of skin beneath the nose, the upper lip is elevated to show more of the pink lip tissue, increase upper tooth show, and create a more youthful, balanced lip proportion. Results are permanent.

Will a lip lift make my lips look bigger?

A lip lift can make the upper lip appear fuller by rotating it upward and revealing more of the pink lip tissue and upper teeth. It changes the position and shape of the lip rather than adding volume as filler does. Some patients choose to combine a lip lift with a small amount of filler for both shape improvement and volume enhancement — Mr Nassab can advise on what is most appropriate for you.

What is the difference between a lip lift and lip filler?

Lip filler is a non-surgical injectable treatment that temporarily adds volume to the lips, typically lasting 6–18 months before dissolving. A lip lift is a surgical procedure that permanently shortens the philtrum and repositions the upper lip for lasting improvement in shape and tooth show. Filler cannot recreate the positional change achieved by a lip lift, and a lip lift does not add the volume that filler provides. Some patients benefit from combining both.

Where is the scar for a lip lift?

For a subnasal (bullhorn) lip lift, the incision is placed in the natural crease at the base of the nose — following the nostril contour so the scar is hidden within this natural shadow. With meticulous closure and good scar care, the scar typically fades to a very discreet fine line that is difficult to notice in everyday life. Mr Nassab will discuss scar placement in detail at your consultation.

Am I a good candidate for a lip lift?

Ideal candidates are individuals with a naturally long upper lip or a philtrum that has elongated with age, who want to increase tooth show, improve lip proportion, or achieve a fuller-looking upper lip without filler. Good candidates are in good general health, non-smokers or willing to stop around surgery, and have realistic expectations. A consultation with Mr Nassab will confirm your suitability based on your anatomy, skin quality, and goals.

How long is recovery after a lip lift?

Swelling and mild bruising are expected in the first few days. Most swelling settles significantly within 1–2 weeks. Sutures are typically removed at around 5–7 days. Most patients feel comfortable returning to work and social commitments within 1–2 weeks. Strenuous exercise should be avoided for 2–4 weeks. The scar continues to mature and fade over the following 3–6 months.

Can a lip lift be combined with other procedures?

Yes. A lip lift is frequently combined with other facial procedures in a single session, such as rhinoplasty, blepharoplasty, or facelift, to achieve more comprehensive facial rejuvenation. It can also be combined with lip filler for patients who want both a positional change and additional volume. Mr Nassab will design the optimal plan at consultation.

How long do lip lift results last?

Results are permanent — the procedure physically shortens the upper lip and the change in position is lasting. While the natural ageing process continues (and may cause some gradual lengthening of the philtrum over many years), the lift effect generally remains long-term. This is a key advantage over filler, which requires regular top-ups.

How much does a lip lift cost in Manchester?

The lip lift is £4,000 at CLNQ. The consultation fee is £100 for your assessment with Mr Nassab. If you are combining a lip lift with other procedures, a personalised all-inclusive quote will be provided at consultation. Finance options are also available.

Lip Lift Prices

Transparent, all-inclusive pricing. If combining your lip lift with other procedures a personalised quote is confirmed at consultation.

Consultation

£100

In-person assessment with Mr Nassab. Deducted from procedure cost when you proceed.

Lip Lift

£4,000

All-inclusive. Subnasal, Cupid Lift or Deep Plane technique. Local anaesthetic. Day case.

Flexible Payment

Finance Available

Spread the cost with 0% interest options. Ask our team at your consultation for details.

Book a Consultation right arrow

Lip Lift Locations

Mr Nassab performs lip lift surgery at two clinic locations across the North West of England.

Location

Manchester

CLNQ, Deansgate Square
11 Owen Street
Manchester, M15 4YB

Location

Cheshire

CLNQ, Knutsford
49–51 King Street
Knutsford, WA16 6DX

Related Procedures

Procedures commonly combined with a lip lift or considered as part of a comprehensive facial plan.

Face

Rhinoplasty

Nose reshaping frequently combined with lip lift to restore full facial harmony.

Face

Facelift

Comprehensive facial rejuvenation addressing jawline, jowls and neck laxity.

Face

Blepharoplasty

Eyelid surgery to refresh the upper face, often combined with lip lift for overall rejuvenation.

Face

Earlobe Reduction

Reshape and reduce enlarged or elongated earlobes for balanced facial proportions.

Face

FaceTite

Minimally invasive RFAL skin tightening for jawline and neck laxity with minimal downtime.

Face

Otoplasty

Ear pinning for overall facial balance — frequently part of a broader facial plan.

Medically Reviewed & Written by Mr Reza Nassab — FRCS (Plast), GMC Registered Consultant Plastic Surgeon Last reviewed: February 2026