Lip lift swelling and numbness: How long does it last? The course until scars settle

After a lip lift (a procedure that shortens the philtrum by removing skin under the nose), internal bleeding and moderate swelling occur in all patients and resolve within the normal postoperative period, according to a review[1]Numbness around the nostril rim has been reported to persist for approximately 4 months[1]From a long-term perspective, scarring is more of a concern than swelling, and scar assessment is typically performed at the 12-month mark. Laser and other treatments are used for scars that do not heal well[2][3].

When do swelling and internal bleeding subside?

Internal bleeding and moderate swelling occur in all patients and resolve within the normal postoperative period, according to a 2024 review[1]Primary sources that specify the number of days for resolution were not found in the current literature, and the timeline varies depending on the surgical technique and individual differences[1].

The approach of avoiding additional procedures while swelling remains is worth considering. In a report of 17 patients who underwent lip lift combined with jaw bone surgery, the procedure was typically performed 6 months or more after the swelling from the bone surgery had subsided[4].

When does numbness under the nose resolve?

Numbness (reduced sensation) around the nostril rim has been reported to persist for approximately 4 months after surgery[1]Some cases showed mild numbness remaining in the upper lip, and the 17-patient report noted no functional impairment beyond that[4]In most cases, numbness gradually resolves over time, but if it persists beyond 4 months, it should be discussed during a consultation[1][4].

How do scars change over time?

Scarring is the primary concern with this procedure, and the development of incision design strategies has primarily focused on minimizing scars[5][2]The review notes that in upper lip surgery, cosmetically unfavorable scarring is a major concern for both patients and physicians. While some studies report scar problems at 1–5%, the review's own analysis found a higher rate[1].

Scar assessment is often performed at the 12-month mark, and in a report of 26 cases, two plastic surgeons evaluated visibility of blood vessels, color, elasticity, thickness, and elevation at 12 months post-operation.[2]The time perspective is to observe the scar for a one-year period until it settles.[2].

The textbook states that with correct diagnosis and appropriate patient selection, complications are rare, and carbon dioxide laser was effective for scars that did not heal well (3-4 cases).[3].

What is different about surgical techniques that make scars less noticeable?

A method that uses the skin at the bridge of the nose as a flap to hide the scar at the base of the nose,[2]or a method that reduces skin tension by suspending with three threads in the deeper layer.[5]has been reported. In a report comparing 193 people and 50 people, "significantly improved" was 78.7% with the deep-layer suspension technique, 43% with the conventional method, and "no change" was 1% and 7%, respectively[5]. However, this is not a randomized controlled comparison[5].

What are the signs that you should see a doctor?

Reported complications include wound separation (0.5%), asymmetry (1%), and scarring issues[1]. Swelling and bruising typically improve day by day, so if wound edges separate, swelling or pain increases, or bleeding continues, contact the medical facility where you had surgery without waiting for your next appointment[1].

Changes in which scars become red and raised are also subjects for consultation.[3]For raised scars, laser treatments and other procedures are used, so notifying us early expands your options.[3].

What we want to confirm during consultation

What we want to confirm is which incision method is used, where the scar will be located, and your skin type.[2]In a report of 26 cases, scars were evaluated at 12 months in Fitzpatrick skin types 3 and 4,[2]and skin quality and how scars settle are topics to discuss with the doctor during consultation.

If you have skeletal issues such as the upper jaw bone protruding forward or being vertically elongated, there is a risk of unwanted results such as teeth showing too much with a Lip lift.[4]The report states that skeletal issues should be diagnosed before surgery and, if necessary, corrected first.[4].