Lip lift
A precise approach to restoring balance, proportion and expression to the face
When changes in the upper lip disrupt facial balance
For some women, changes to the upper lip happen gradually. The lip lengthens, the pink portion becomes less visible, the teeth become less visible, and the smile begins to feel muted or less expressive. This can happen with age, genetics or both, and it often has nothing to do with volume.
A lip lift is designed to address proportion, not fullness. By shortening the distance between the nose and the upper lip, the procedure can restore balance and youthfulness to the lower face, improving dental show at rest and bringing the lips into better harmony with the rest of your facial features.
In my practice, the goal of a lip lift is not exaggeration or volume. It is clarity: helping the upper lip look appropriately positioned, expressive and aligned with the rest of the face.
“A very good experience for me. Dr. Chao Pearl was very kind and professional. Excellent follow-up care. I would highly recommend this office.”
— Lip lift patient
Who this procedure is (and isn’t) right for
A lip lift may be a good option for women who:
Feel their upper lip has lengthened or lost definition over time.
Want more tooth visibility and lip volume when smiling without relying on repeated fillers.
Are looking for a permanent structural solution rather than temporary volume.
Value proportion and balance over trend-driven enhancement.
Just as important, a lip lift is not the right solution for everyone. This procedure may not be appropriate if:
Concerns are primarily related to volume rather than lip position.
Facial proportions would not benefit from shortening the upper lip.
Expectations are driven by a specific look rather than anatomy.
Healing considerations or scarring risk outweigh the potential benefit.
Part of my role is helping determine whether a lip lift truly serves your face or whether another approach, including no surgery at all, is the better choice.
Dr. Janet Chao Pearl’s approach to lip lift surgery
A lip lift is a technically precise operation where millimeters matter. Small decisions about incision placement, skin removal and tension can have a meaningful impact on both appearance and healing.
My approach emphasizes:
Proportion over volume, focusing on lip position rather than fullness.
Precision in incision design so scars heal discreetly and predictably.
Structural balance, ensuring the lip fits naturally with the nose, teeth and lower face.
Long-term appropriateness, so results continue to feel right as the face evolves.
I do not treat lip lifts as a trend-based procedure. Each plan is individualized, and I am thoughtful about when (and whether) this surgery adds value.
What to expect from Dr. Chao Pearl
Dr. Pearl’s philosophical approach is intentionally personal and closely guided. The process typically includes:
A detailed consultation focused on facial proportions, anatomy and goals.
An honest discussion about what a lip lift can and cannot accomplish.
Clear guidance on whether surgery, an alternative approach or no intervention is most appropriate.
If surgery is the right step, the procedure is performed with careful attention to efficiency and tissue handling. After surgery, I remain intimately involved in follow-up care, monitoring healing and addressing questions as they arise.
Recovery and healing
Lip lift recovery is generally straightforward, though healing is highly individual.
Many patients experience:
Mild to moderate swelling in the first one to two weeks.
Sutures removed within the first week.
Gradual softening and refinement of the lip position over several months.
Because the incision is placed at the base of the nose, thoughtful technique and post-operative care are essential to achieving a well-healed result. I provide detailed guidance throughout recovery, so patients know what to expect at each stage.
Practical details
Consultation: Initial review begins through a secure online form, followed by transparent pricing and next steps if appropriate.
Consultation fee: Applied toward a future procedure.
Scheduling: Surgery is scheduled only after careful planning and mutual agreement.