Upper Lip Lift Toronto
An Upper Lip Lift is a surgical procedure that shortens the philtrum — the distance between the base of the nose and the upper lip — lifting the lip to create a more youthful, fuller appearance and increased upper tooth display when smiling. It improves lip proportions and enhances overall facial harmony and femininity.
Performed by Dr. Ali Adibfar at Elements Toronto, Upper Lip Lift Toronto is fully customized to the patient’s facial features, lip shape, and aesthetic goals. The most common technique uses a small incision concealed just beneath the nose (the bullhorn or subnasal approach), allowing precise removal of excess skin and careful elevation of the upper lip.
The surgery may be performed at any adult age, either as a standalone procedure or in combination with other facial surgeries.
Recovery Timeline
Recovery varies from patient to patient, but the following timeline provides a general guideline:
- First 48–72 hours: Swelling and mild discomfort are expected. Keeping the head elevated and applying cold compresses as directed will help minimize swelling.
- Days 3–5: Bruising begins to resolve and patients typically feel more comfortable. Soft foods are recommended during the initial healing period.
- Day 5–7: Sutures are typically removed during this period, depending on individual healing progress.
- Week 1: Most patients feel ready to return to light daily activities. Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided.
- Weeks 3–6: Residual swelling resolves and the lip settles into its new position. Light exercise may be gradually reintroduced once cleared by Dr. Ali Adibfar.
- 4–6 Months: Final results become fully apparent as healing is complete. The results of an Upper Lip Lift are long lasting.
Dr. Adibfar will provide detailed post-operative instructions and monitor your healing closely throughout your recovery at Elements Toronto to ensure the best possible outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
How should I prepare for my consultation?
Come prepared with a list of your current medications, any underlying health conditions, relevant medical history, and your post-surgical history. For procedures involving the jaw, brow bone, or forehead, you may also send our office any X-rays, scans, or imaging you have available before your appointment.
Can I have a virtual consultation?
Yes. Virtual consultations are offered. The team will obtain consent forms and photographs beforehand. In-person is preferred when possible.
Is there a fee for the consultation?
Yes. The consultation fee is $200. This amount is deducted from the surgical cost if you proceed with surgery. This fee may change over time.
Is my consultation confidential?
Entirely. Your information is protected under Ontario privacy legislation. Photos are never used without separate written consent.
What can I expect from my initial consultation?
A private one-on-one consultation with Dr. Adibfar to discuss your goals, perform an assessment, review recommendations, set realistic expectations, and show curated before-and-after photos when appropriate.
Can I choose the type of anesthesia I receive?
Anesthesia is planned with the anesthesiologist. Depending on the procedure, this may involve local anesthesia, deep sedation, or general anesthesia.
Where is my surgery performed?
Surgery is performed at the Elements Surgery Centre, a CPSO-accredited out-of-hospital premises (OHP).
What should I expect when it comes to scarring?
Any incision leaves a scar. Incisions are placed in natural folds whenever possible. Final scar appearance depends on the type of surgery, your individual healing, genetics, post-operative care, and whether you smoke or use nicotine products.
Is cosmetic surgery covered by OHIP or private insurance?
No. Elements Toronto does not perform OHIP-covered procedures. Purely cosmetic procedures are not covered by OHIP or private insurance.
Do you offer financing?
Yes. Financing is available through Medicard and Beautifi.
How do I reserve my surgery date?
A 30% deposit is required to reserve your surgery date. The remaining balance is due at your pre-operative appointment, approximately 4 weeks before surgery. The written quote is valid for 6 months.
What is your policy on revision surgery?
If a revision is necessary after 12 months of healing, additional fees may apply based on Dr. Adibfar’s evaluation.
How many follow-up appointments will I have?
Standard follow-ups are typically scheduled at 1 week, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year, or according to your individual protocol. These are included in the surgical fees according to practice.
Who do I contact if something doesn’t feel right after surgery?
Contact the office at (416) 929-1288. Dr. Adibfar is available directly after hours for medical emergencies. For life-threatening emergencies, go to the nearest emergency department.
I live outside Toronto. How does that work?
Virtual consultations are available. After surgery, a stay in Toronto is required for initial post-operative monitoring. Depending on the procedure, this can range from a few days up to 3 weeks (and up to 2–4 weeks for more extensive facial procedures such as facial feminization surgery).
Do I need to stop smoking before surgery?
Yes. Smoking, vaping, and all nicotine products compromise healing and scar quality and must be stopped before surgery.
Who performs the injectables (Botox, fillers, etc.)?
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