Repositioning the Lip

Lip Repositioning is a cosmetic surgery procedure designed to correct the position and appearance of the upper lip. This treatment is ideal for people who have a gummy smile (too much gum showing when smiling) or who feel that their upper lip is too short or does not fully cover their teeth. Lip repositioning can help achieve a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing smile.

What is Lip Repositioning?

Lip repositioning involves surgically changing the position of the upper lip to improve both function and aesthetics. The procedure typically involves making a small incision inside the mouth, just below the nose, to access and reposition the lip. This can help reduce the amount of gum visible when smiling and improve the overall appearance of the upper lip.

Why Should You Consider Lip Positioning?

There are several reasons why individuals may seek lip repositioning:

• Gummy Smile: If excess gum tissue is visible when you smile, lip repositioning can help reduce this exposure by adjusting the position of the upper lip.
• Short Upper Lip: A short upper lip can make the teeth appear longer and affect facial proportions. Repositioning the lips can lengthen the upper lip, creating a more balanced appearance.
• Improving Facial Aesthetics: Repositioning the lips can improve the symmetry and harmony of your facial features, contributing to a more pleasing smile.

Lip Repositioning Procedure

1. Consultation and Planning: During your initial consultation, your dentist or oral surgeon will evaluate your facial anatomy and discuss your goals. They will create a personalized treatment plan based on your needs and expectations.
2. Anesthesia: The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, ensuring that you are comfortable and pain-free during the surgery. In some cases, sedation may be used for added comfort.
3. Surgical Procedure: A small incision is made inside the mouth, just below the nose. The surgeon repositions the upper lip by adjusting the underlying tissue and muscle. The incision is then closed with dissolvable stitches.
4. Recovery: After the procedure, you may experience mild swelling, bruising, or discomfort that usually subsides within a week. Pain medications and a soft food diet may be recommended to ease any discomfort during the initial recovery period.

What to Expect After Lip Repositioning?

• Recovery Time: Most patients can resume normal activities within a few days, but full recovery may take several weeks. It is very important to follow your surgeon’s postoperative care instructions for optimal results and recovery.
• Results: Final results become more noticeable as swelling decreases and tissues heal completely. You can expect a more balanced lip position and less gum exposure when smiling.
• Aftercare: Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to prevent infection and ensure proper healing. Your dentist will provide specific care instructions, including how to manage any discomfort and when to schedule follow-up visits.

Is Lip Positioning Right for You?

Lip repositioning is appropriate for individuals who are in good overall health and have specific aesthetic goals regarding their upper lip. It is important to have a thorough discussion with your dentist or surgical team to determine if this procedure is right for you and to understand the expected results.

Benefits of Lip Positioning

• Improved Aesthetics: Provides a more balanced and pleasing smile by reducing excessive gingival exposure and improving lip proportions.
• Personalized Results: Tailored to meet your specific cosmetic goals and improve your overall facial harmony.
• Minimal Recovery Time: The procedure is minimally invasive with a relatively short recovery time compared to more extensive surgeries.