The scar is one of the most common worries for anyone considering a lip lift. It is a fair concern: a lip lift does leave a scar on the face, and nobody should promise otherwise. What you can reasonably expect is a scar that is carefully placed, closed with attention to detail and, in most people, becomes much less noticeable over time. This article explains where the scar sits, how it changes and what you can do to help it heal well.
Does a lip lift leave a scar?
Yes. Every lip lift leaves a scar because skin is removed and the edges are stitched together. Where it sits depends on the technique chosen.
With the most commonly used subnasal or bullhorn technique, the scar runs along the base of the nose, curving with the nostrils. With a lip-border lift, it lies along the edge of the red lip. The technique is chosen at your consultation, as described on our lip lift in Antalya page.
How does a lip lift scar change over time?
A lip lift scar goes through predictable stages, from a pink line to a pale, fine scar. The timeline below is typical, although some scars mature faster or more slowly.
| Time after surgery | What the scar usually looks like |
|---|---|
| Week 1 | Stitches in place; line slightly swollen and crusted |
| Weeks 2–4 | Stitches removed; scar pink or red and may feel tight |
| Months 1–3 | Scar may become firmer or slightly raised; redness persists |
| Months 3–6 | Scar softens and flattens; colour begins to fade |
| Months 6–12 | Scar becomes paler and finer in most people |
| After 12 months | Mature scar; usually a fine pale line, although it never disappears completely |
It is completely normal for the scar to look its worst at around one to three months, before it improves. Patience is important during this phase.
What affects how a lip lift scar looks?
Several factors influence the final appearance, some within your control and some not.
- Skin type. Thick, oily or darker skin can be more prone to visible or raised scars.
- Genetics. A personal or family history of keloids increases the risk of thick scars.
- Tension. Removing too much skin places more tension on the wound, which can widen the scar. A conservative plan helps.
- Closure technique. Layered closure, with deeper stitches taking the tension, supports a finer surface scar.
- Smoking. Nicotine reduces blood flow to the skin and can impair healing.
- Sun exposure. Ultraviolet light can darken a healing scar for many months.
- Infection or wound problems. These can make a scar wider or less even.
How should I care for my lip lift scar?
Good scar care starts once the wound has healed and continues for several months. Always follow the specific instructions you are given.
- Keep it clean in the first week, following the wound care advice from the clinic.
- Avoid stretching the upper lip with wide yawning, big bites or vigorous facial movements in the first weeks.
- Use silicone gel or sheets once the stitches are out and the skin is closed, often from around the second week, if recommended.
- Protect it from the sun with a hat and high-factor sunscreen for at least six to twelve months.
- Gentle massage may be suggested after a few weeks to soften the scar.
- Avoid smoking before and after surgery.
When should I seek advice about my scar?
Contact the clinic if the wound opens, discharges, becomes increasingly red or painful, or if you notice the scar becoming thick, raised and itchy after the first few weeks. Early treatment of a thickening scar tends to be more effective than waiting.
Can the scar be hidden in the meantime?
During the first months, a pink scar under the nose can often be concealed with light make-up once the wound has fully closed. Many people also find that the natural shadow at the base of the nose makes the scar less noticeable in everyday conversation than they expected. For UK patients returning to work, planning one to two weeks off usually covers the most visible early stage.
Is the scar worth it?
This is a personal decision. For people with a clearly long upper lip, the improvement in proportion often outweighs a fine scar under the nose. For those with only a slightly long lip, the trade-off may be less favourable. A good consultation will help you weigh this honestly.
Talking about scars before surgery
Asking to see where your scar would sit, and discussing your own skin and healing history, is a sensible part of planning. Op. Dr. Mehmet Ali Korkmaz will examine your skin, explain the likely scar position and talk through your risk factors. You can find more information about the procedure on the lip lift surgery page.
Frequently asked questions
Can I wear make-up over a lip lift scar?
Usually yes, once the stitches have been removed and the wound has fully closed, which is often around ten to fourteen days after surgery. Choose a gentle, non-irritating concealer, apply it lightly and remove it carefully at the end of the day. Avoid rubbing the scar, and stop if the area becomes red or irritated.
Does a lip lift scar look different on darker skin?
People with darker skin tones can be more prone to thick (hypertrophic) or keloid scars and to temporary darkening of the scar, called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This does not necessarily rule out surgery, but it should be discussed openly. Strict sun protection and early review of any thickening are particularly important.
Can a poor lip lift scar be improved?
Often, yes. Depending on the problem, options may include silicone products, steroid injections for raised scars, laser or other skin treatments, or, in selected cases, a scar revision. Most surgeons wait at least six to twelve months before considering revision, because scars continue to improve on their own during this time.
Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery · Medical Director, AYT Clinic
This page is for general information only and does not replace a medical consultation. Suitability, risks and expected results are assessed individually during an examination.