What to Expect From Lip Reduction Surgery

Introduction

Many people associate full lips with youth and beauty. However, overly large lips can affect self-confidence and facial balance. For those seeking smaller lips, lip reduction surgery is an effective and lasting solution. Unlike lip fillers which add volume, this procedure reshapes and reduces lip size. The goal is not only to create smaller lips, but to achieve natural balance with your overall facial features. 

Why Choose Lip Reduction Surgery?

People seek lip reduction surgery for both cosmetic and functional reasons. Some may feel their lips are too prominent. Others may experience speech challenges or difficulty closing their lips fully. 

Unlike temporary solutions, lip reduction is a one-time surgery that delivers permanent results. It offers a tailored approach depending on whether you want one or both lips reduced. The procedure is subtle yet impactful and can improve your appearance and comfort.

How the Lip Reduction Procedure Works

The procedure is usually performed under local anaesthesia, often with sedation if needed. Your surgeon begins by making a horizontal incision on the inside of the lip. This is done to ensure the scar is hidden after healing.

A small strip of tissue is removed to decrease volume. The amount taken depends on your goals and natural lip size. The incision is then closed with dissolvable stitches. Because the incision is made inside the mouth, the external appearance remains unaffected by scarring.

Preparing for Lip Reduction Surgery

Before your procedure, you’ll have a detailed consultation. During this session, your surgeon will evaluate your facial structure. Review your medical history, and discuss your desired results. Photos may be taken to assist in planning.

You’ll be advised to avoid smoking, alcohol, and certain medications like aspirin. These can affect healing. It’s also important to maintain oral hygiene leading up to the surgery. Clean teeth and healthy gums support a smoother recovery.

If you're prone to cold sores, antiviral medication may be prescribed beforehand as a precaution.

What to Expect Immediately After Surgery

After surgery, you’ll likely experience swelling, mild bruising, and some discomfort. These symptoms usually subside within the first week. Pain is minimal and easily managed with over-the-counter or prescribed medication.

You may be advised to apply cold compresses and sleep with your head elevated. This helps reduce swelling. Talking, smiling, and chewing should be kept to a minimum for a few days. Liquid or soft foods are recommended for the first week.

Dissolvable stitches typically fall out within 7–10 days. Your surgeon will provide detailed aftercare instructions for optimal healing.

How Long Is the Lip Reduction Recovery Period?

Most patients return to work or normal activities within one week. Full healing and your lips may take a few weeks to settle. During this time, swelling continues to decrease and lips begin to look more natural.

It’s important to avoid strenuous activity or touching the lips excessively. Good oral hygiene is vital during healing. You may need to rinse with a special mouthwash to reduce the risk of infection.

While the recovery is relatively short, results are long-lasting. 

Lip Reduction for Asymmetry Correction

Some patients have asymmetrical lips, where one side appears larger or more pronounced. Lip reduction surgery can correct this imbalance. The surgeon carefully tailors the tissue removal to address these differences.

Improving symmetry often enhances overall facial balance. It can also reduce the psychological impact of perceived flaws. Many people feel more confident post-surgery. Additionally, correction for previous filler overuse or botched procedures is also possible through lip reduction.

Lip Reduction for Men and Women

While lip enhancement is more popular among women, lip reduction appeals to both men and women equally. Men often seek this surgery for a more defined, masculine look. Women may want to reduce excess fullness for a neater lip line.

The approach may differ slightly between genders depending on the desired outcome. However, the surgical technique remains the same — internal incision, tissue removal, and careful closure.

Consultation is key to ensuring results match your expectations and suit your gender presentation.

Combining Lip Reduction With Other Procedures

Lip reduction can be performed alone or alongside other facial surgeries. For example, it is often combined with chin augmentation, rhinoplasty, or jaw contouring. These combinations improve facial proportion as a whole.

Doing multiple procedures at once saves time and recovery periods. However, it’s important to discuss the benefits and timing with your surgeon. Your treatment plan will be customised based on your goals and health condition.

Are Results from Lip Reduction Permanent?

Yes, the results are permanent. Once tissue is removed, it does not grow back. However, the final appearance continues to refine over the first few months. As swelling subsides, you’ll see the true shape emerge.

Because it’s permanent, choosing a skilled, experienced surgeon is essential. Your practitioner should have a good understanding of facial harmony. Review before-and-after photos to gauge their style and ability.

Adjustments are rarely needed, but touch-ups can be done if necessary after full healing.

Is Lip Reduction Right for You?

You may be a good candidate if your lips feel too large. Cause discomfort, or affect self-esteem. Ideal candidates are healthy, non-smokers, and have realistic expectations.

This procedure is also a great option if you’ve had lip fillers and now want a more permanent reduction. 

Conclusion

Lip reduction is a straightforward and effective procedure with permanent results. It helps refine lip shape, improve symmetry, and enhance facial balance. With proper planning and aftercare, patients can expect a smooth recovery and satisfying outcome.

For more information and to book a consultation visit the ACIBADEM Beauty Center webpage.