A well-shaped, lifted upper lip can dramatically enhance the harmony of the face. At the facial plastic surgery practice of Eric Cerrati, MD, FACS, based in Park City, Utah, we specialize in advanced lip lift techniques that refine and rejuvenate the lips while maintaining a natural appearance. Two of the most requested procedures—the bullhorn lip lift and the corner lip lift—target different aesthetic concerns, but both can transform the mouth and overall facial expression.
What Is a Bullhorn Lip Lift?
The bullhorn lip lift, also known as a subnasal lip lift, shortens the distance between the base of the nose and the upper lip (called the philtrum). This procedure involves a small, precisely placed incision under the nose in the shape of a bullhorn, through which a small strip of skin is removed. The result is a visible lift of the upper lip, creating:
- A more defined Cupid’s bow
- Increased upper teeth show when smiling
- A fuller appearance to the lip without adding volume
This technique is ideal for patients whose upper lip is elongated due to aging or genetics, which can make the face look tired or less expressive. In the Salt Lake City metro area, where elevation and UV exposure contribute to premature aging, this subtle rejuvenation is a popular request among individuals in their 40s and beyond.
What Is a Corner Lip Lift?
The corner lip lift focuses on turning up the outer corners of the mouth, which tend to droop with age, leading to a sad or angry appearance. Using small incisions at the lip corners, this lift subtly elevates the mouth’s edges to create a more positive, approachable expression.
This procedure is especially helpful for:
- People with downturned lips at rest
- Patients looking to enhance lip symmetry
- Those who want subtle improvements without fillers
It can also be a key complement to facelift or lower face rejuvenation surgery, as the corners of the mouth often remain unchanged after standard lifting procedures.
Can You Combine the Two?
Yes—and many patients do. Combining a bullhorn lip lift with a corner lip lift allows for a more complete transformation of the upper lip. The central lip is elevated and shortened, while the outer corners are lifted for balance and symmetry. The result is a more youthful, expressive, and proportionate mouth.
Dr. Cerrati often recommends combining these procedures for individuals seeking aesthetic harmony, especially when other facial features—like cheeks or chin—are already refined.
Adding Volume: Fat Grafting for Lip Enhancement
For patients who want more than just a lift, fat grafting to the lips can enhance softness and volume. Fat is harvested from another area of the body (typically the abdomen or thighs), purified, and injected into the lips for natural-looking, long-lasting fullness.
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, lip augmentation procedures have risen by over 60% in the past decade. In Utah, where patients frequently seek natural, elegant facial enhancements, fat grafting is a popular choice to complement lip lift procedures, providing structure and volume along with a lift.
Why Choose Dr. Eric Cerrati?
As a fellowship-trained, double board-certified facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Cerrati brings an artistic eye and surgical precision to every lip procedure. Patients from Salt Lake City, Park City, and across Utah choose Dr. Cerrati for results that are subtle yet striking—and always personalized.
Curious about which lip lift is right for you? Schedule a private consultation with Dr. Eric Cerrati in Park City today. Whether you’re considering a bullhorn lip lift, corner lip lift, or full lip rejuvenation with fat grafting, we’ll guide you every step of the way.
Call our office in Park City to begin your transformation. Subtle changes can create powerful results—and your most confident smile starts here.
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