The Bullhorn Lip Lift Procedure

Information About the Bullhorn Lip Lift with Dr. Andrew Jacono in New York, NY

What Is a Bullhorn Lip Lift?

As we age, the lips lose their youthful shape and fullness. The distance between the upper lip, the cupid’s bow, and the nose also elongate and continues to lengthen over time. To shorten the distance between the nose and upper lip, a surgical lip lift can provide long-term solutions and correct most of these issues.

The lip lift reduces the space between the tip of the nose and the upper lip. Lip lifts are performed through a hidden incision along anatomic borders. Although it is a small, minimally invasive surgery, it can have a major impact on the face’s overall aesthetic harmony.

Upper lip lifts are among the most common facial plastic surgery procedures and are becoming more popular with time. Dr. Jacono is one of the top facial plastic surgeons in the world and specializes in natural-looking lip lifts. Most often, he uses a technique known as the bullhorn lip lift.

Subnasal Lip Lift (Bullhorn Technique)

The bullhorn lip lift, or subnasal lip lift, elevates the upper lip to reveal a broader smile. Dr. Jacono places an incision just below the nose in the shape of a bull’s horn. Then, he removes a tiny strip of skin and tissue, tightens underlying muscle, and raises the upper lip to a more desirable position.

Dr. Jacono is an expert at placing incisions in hidden curves under the nose, which results in virtually undetectable scars.

Benefits of this Procedure

A bullhorn lip lift is a wonderful cosmetic option for patients who have:

• Flat, thin lips
• Unbalanced lips
• An upper lip that is too long
• A larger-than-normal distance between the nose and lips

What to Expect from a Bullhorn Lip Lift

The bullhorn lip lift is an excellent way to reshape the area above the lips. It creates a poutier upper lip and makes the teeth more visible when smiling.

The procedure only takes Dr. Jacono between 45 minutes and an hour to perform. It is usually completed under local anesthesia, a series of injections that numbs the area without the need for sedation. After surgery, patients schedule a follow-up appointment to track progress. Dr. Jacono also provides post-operative and recovery instructions for the most seamless healing process.

For complete facial rejuvenation, Dr. Jacono may combine a lip lift with other procedures. These include injectable fillers, facelifts, browlifts, and eyelid lifts.

Recovery Following a Bullhorn Lift

The vast majority of patients are able to return to normal daily activities after 4 to 5 days. Patients should expect minor swelling after their procedure, but this should subside on its own after one week. Incision lines generally fade after 6 to 8 weeks. Some patients experience tightness in the upper lips for 2 to 4 months, though the severity of discomfort varies.

All patients should avoid smoking tobacco and drinking alcohol before and after surgery. This will ensure the best possible outcomes. 

Does a Bullhorn Lip Lift Leave a Scar?

Dr. Jacono’s bullhorn lip lift technique does not leave behind apparent scars. This is because he tactfully places incisions along the natural folds and curves of the face. Thus, any post-operative scarring should be either negligible or nonexistent.

Who Is a Candidate for a Bullhorn Lip Lift?

The bullhorn lip lift is an excellent option for men and women who are in good health and seek to enhance the appearance of their lips. This includes patients who were born with thin upper lips, as well as those who want to shorten the distance between the nose and the upper lip.

Patients who are interested in this procedure should schedule a consultation with Dr. Jacono. During this appointment, Dr. Jacono helps prospective patients determine which cosmetic approach would fulfill their goals.

This is the perfect time for possible patients to outline their questions, concerns, and overarching wishes for treatment.

Best Bullhorn Lip Lift Results with Dr. Jacono

Dr. Jacono is a New York-based, double-board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon. He routinely performs lip lift procedures, employing various methods. He most commonly uses the bullhorn lip lift technique and is considered one of the best lip lift surgeons in New York.

To learn more about lip lifts, or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Jacono, please contact his offices. His New York City location can be reached at 212-570-2500. His Long Island location can be reached at 516-773-4646. You can also fill out our complimentary online consultation form, and our patient care coordinators will be happy to assist you.