A Russian lift lip is a cosmetic procedure that enhances the shape and fullness of the upper lip. It is a modified version of the traditional lip lift surgery aimed at creating a fuller, poutier lip shape reminiscent of Russian beauty ideals.
What does a Russian lift lip involve?
The Russian lip lift technique focuses on reshaping the Cupid’s bow – the double curved V shape of the upper lip. It involves making a small incision under the nose and removing a strip of skin above the upper lip. The doctor then pulls the remaining skin up and sutures it together to create a tighter, distinct Cupid’s bow with a lifted lip line.
Unlike a traditional lip lift that shortens the space between the nose and upper lip, a Russian lip lift creates a subtle but sensuous shape without significantly altering the lip length. It raises the vermilion of the upper lip, the area between the lip line and actual lip skin. This adds volume and definition to the central part of the upper lip for a fuller, sexier pout.
What are the benefits of a Russian lip lift?
Some benefits of a Russian lift lip include:
- Creates fuller, plumper lips by lifting the lip line and increasing upper lip volume.
- Defines and accentuates the Cupid’s bow for a pin-up style pout.
- Subtle enhancement that looks natural.
- Faster recovery than traditional lip lift surgery.
- No reduction in lip mobility or Philtrum length.
- Long lasting results.
Who is an ideal candidate for a Russian lip lift?
Good candidates for a Russian lip lift include:
- Those wanting a defined Cupid’s bow and fuller upper lip.
- People with a flatter or indistinct Cupid’s bow shape.
- Individuals looking to balance out a smaller upper lip.
- Patients wanting subtle lip rejuvenation and enhancement.
- Healthy individuals without serious medical conditions.
- Non-smokers.
- Individuals with realistic expectations about the procedure.
How is the procedure performed?
The Russian lip lift procedure is carried out under local anesthesia and takes 30-60 minutes to complete. The steps include:
- Cleaning and marking the incision site just under the nose.
- Injecting local anesthesia to numb the area.
- Making a small curved incision following the natural crease between the nose and upper lip.
- Removing a thin strip of skin below the incision in a wedge shape.
- Pulling the remaining skin upward and suturing it together using dissolvable stitches.
- Trimming any excess skin for a smooth lip line.
- Applying antibiotic ointment and specialized tape over the incision.
What is the recovery like?
Recovery after a Russian lip lift is relatively quick. It involves:
- Mild swelling and bruising around the lips lasting up to 2 weeks.
- Numbness and tightness around the lips for a few weeks.
- Wearing a compression garment for 1-2 days.
- Applying antibiotic cream over the incision for a few days.
- Avoiding strenuous activity for a week.
- Staying out of the sun until healed.
- Following lip care instructions to support healing.
- Stitches dissolving within a week.
- Most patients return to normal activity within 5-7 days.
Optimal results are visible after the swelling resolves completely in 4-6 weeks.
Are there any risks or side effects?
Possible risks and side effects include:
- Temporary numbness in the lip area.
- Asymmetrical lips due to swelling or scar contracture.
- Visible or hypertrophic scarring at incision site.
- Need for revision surgery if desired results are not achieved.
- Restricted lip movement or distortion if too much skin is removed.
- Risks associated with anesthesia.
- Infection, bleeding and poor wound healing.
How much does a Russian lip lift cost?
The average cost of a Russian lip lift in the United States is $2,500 – $4,000. However, costs can vary considerably based on factors such as:
- Geographic location – Urban areas like New York and Los Angeles tend to have higher prices.
- The surgeon’s expertise and qualifications.
- Extent of correction needed.
- Additional charges like facility fees, anesthesia, prescriptions, etc.
Since cosmetic procedures are not covered by insurance, patients have to pay out-of-pocket for their Russian lip lift.
How to choose a surgeon for a Russian lip lift?
Important tips for choosing a qualified surgeon for your Russian lip lift include:
- Select a board-certified plastic surgeon or maxillofacial surgeon.
- Look for a surgeon experienced in lip lift techniques.
- Check before and after photos to assess results.
- Schedule an in-person consultation.
- Evaluate their clinic or hospital credentials.
- Read reviews of previous patients.
- Make sure you feel comfortable with the surgeon.
Conclusion
A Russian lip lift is an effective way to reshape the Cupid’s bow and subtly enhance the upper lip. The minimally invasive procedure can add definition and fullness to the upper lip with relatively quick recovery. However, like any cosmetic surgery it does carry risks. Do your research to find an experienced and reputable surgeon to perform your Russian lip lift for the most optimal outcome.
