Lip reduction surgery, also called lip thinning surgery or lip size reduction, is a procedure that removes a small amount of tissue from the upper lip, the lower lip or both, to reduce the fullness of the lips and balance them with the rest of the face. This guide explains what lip reduction surgery in Kerala and India involves, who may be suitable, the risks and what recovery is like. Lip reduction surgery services are available at Newface, Chengannur, Kerala.

What Is Lip Reduction Surgery?

Lip reduction surgery is a cosmetic procedure to reshape and resize the lips. It involves removing excess lip tissue to address concerns such as lips that look overly prominent, or an upper lip and a lower lip that look out of proportion with each other. The incision is usually placed on the inner surface of the lip, so the scar is hidden inside the mouth.

Why Do Some People Have Fuller Lips?

Lip fullness is often natural. It may be inherited or may vary between families and communities. In some people, the lips are enlarged because of a medical condition, such as a swelling, a vascular or lymphatic malformation, an injury or an allergic or inflammatory problem. If your lips have changed in size recently or are painful, a doctor should assess you first, because this may need medical treatment rather than cosmetic surgery.

Who May Be Suitable for Lip Reduction Surgery?

Adults who are bothered by the size or proportions of their lips, who are in good general health and who have realistic expectations may be considered. The suitability depends on lip size and shape, the overall facial anatomy and your goals. It is important to discuss your expectations openly with the surgeon, and to understand what surgery can and cannot change.

How Is Lip Reduction Surgery Done?

1. Assessment: the surgeon examines your lips and face, discusses your goals and the options, and plans the procedure.

2. Anaesthesia: the surgery is done under local anaesthesia, with or without sedation, or under general anaesthesia, depending on the case.

3. Marking and incision: the area of tissue to be removed is marked, and an incision is usually made on the inner surface of the lip.
4. Tissue removal: a measured amount of excess tissue is removed.
5. Closure: the incision is closed with stitches, which are usually dissolvable.

The technique, time taken and anaesthesia used depend on the person and the amount of tissue to be removed.

Risks of Lip Reduction Surgery

As with any surgery, risks include:

• Swelling and bruising
• Bleeding
• Infection
• Asymmetry or an uneven lip contour
• Scarring, including a scar that feels firm or tight
• Numbness or changes in sensation of the lip
• Removal of more or less tissue than intended, which may need further surgery
• Difficulty with lip movement, or a result that does not match your expectations

Your surgeon should explain these risks before surgery. Results are not guaranteed and vary from person to person.

Recovery After Lip Reduction Surgery

• Swelling and bruising: common after surgery. Swelling usually settles gradually over a few weeks, and some mild swelling can take longer to go.

• Stitches: usually dissolve on their own in one to two weeks. Your surgeon will tell you if they need to be removed.

• Diet and oral hygiene: a soft diet may be advised at first. Keep your mouth clean as advised, because the incision is inside the mouth.
• Activity: avoid strenuous activity and pressure on the lips for the period your surgeon advises.
• Follow-up: attend your follow-up visits, and contact your doctor if you have heavy bleeding, increasing pain or swelling, fever or signs of infection.

The final shape of the lips becomes clear only after the swelling has settled, which can take some time.

Questions to Ask Your Surgeon Before Surgery

• Are there alternatives to surgery for my concern?

• What are the risks that apply to me?

• Where will the scar be?
• What can I realistically expect from the result?
• What does recovery involve, and how long will it take?

Read more about facial cosmetic surgery in India.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is lip reduction surgery?
It is a procedure that removes excess lip tissue to reduce the fullness of the lips and balance them with the face. It is also called lip thinning surgery.

Where is the scar after lip reduction surgery?
The incision is usually made on the inner surface of the lip, so the scar is generally inside the mouth. Some scarring remains.

How long does recovery take?
Swelling and bruising usually settle over a few weeks, and the stitches usually dissolve in one to two weeks. Your surgeon will advise based on your case.

Are the results of lip reduction surgery guaranteed?
No. Results vary from person to person, and all surgery carries risks.

Information provided by: Dr. Mathew P C, [QUALIFICATIONS], Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon. Registration status: [REGISTERED]. [STATE MEDICAL COUNCIL / NATIONAL MEDICAL REGISTER] registration no.: [NUMBER].

This page provides general health information for education only. It is not a substitute for medical advice and does not promise or guarantee any result. Outcomes vary from person to person.

Newface, 8J4F+X7X, Hatchery Junction, Chengannur, Kerala 689122. Phone: +91 8330077198