The recovery period is usually relatively short. Most patients can return to their normal daily activities within a few days. Complete tissue healing occurs gradually over several weeks.
Anna Brodska
Cheiloplasty / Bullhorn Lip Lift
Bullhorn cheiloplasty enhances the shape of the upper lip, shortens the distance between the nose and lip, and creates a more expressive smile.
Bullhorn cheiloplasty is a plastic surgery procedure aimed at correcting the shape and position of the upper lip. During the operation, the plastic surgeon reduces the distance between the nose and the upper lip, which lifts the lip and enhances its contour. The procedure is called “bullhorn” because of the characteristic shape of the incision made under the base of the nose. This surgery allows for a natural aesthetic result without the use of fillers.
About the service
Bullhorn cheiloplasty is a surgical procedure designed to correct the position of the upper lip. The main goal of the operation is to lift the lip and shorten the distance between the nose and the upper lip, which helps create a more open and expressive smile.
With age, the upper lip may lengthen, which can reduce the visual prominence of the lips and alter facial proportions. In such cases, the lips may appear thinner and the upper teeth become less visible when smiling.
Bullhorn cheiloplasty helps restore harmonious facial proportions, elevate the upper lip, and emphasize its natural shape.
Indications for bullhorn cheiloplasty
The procedure may be recommended for patients who wish to adjust the shape or position of the upper lip.
The most common indications:
• increased distance between the nose and the upper lip
• insufficient definition of the upper lip
• age-related elongation of the upper lip
• desire to create a more open smile
• imbalance in upper facial proportions
During the consultation, the plastic surgeon evaluates the anatomical characteristics of the lips and determines the most appropriate correction method.
How the surgery is performed
Bullhorn cheiloplasty is usually performed under local or general anesthesia depending on the extent of the procedure. The incision is made beneath the base of the nose in a shape resembling bull horns, which is where the name of the procedure originates.
The surgeon then removes a small strip of skin and lifts the upper lip into a new position. Sutures are placed carefully to ensure that the resulting scar remains as inconspicuous as possible.
The procedure typically takes about one hour.
Individual approach to lip correction
Before undergoing bullhorn cheiloplasty, the patient has a consultation with a plastic surgeon. The doctor evaluates facial proportions, lip shape, and the length of the philtrum.
Based on this assessment, an individualized treatment plan is developed. In some cases the procedure may be combined with other aesthetic treatments to achieve a more harmonious result.
Indications for bullhorn cheiloplasty
Bullhorn cheiloplasty is performed to correct the position of the upper lip. The procedure may be recommended when the philtrum is elongated or when the upper lip lacks definition. It can also help create a more open and expressive smile. The final decision about surgery is made after consultation with a plastic surgeon.
Contraindications for bullhorn cheiloplasty
Contraindications may include acute infectious diseases, blood clotting disorders, or serious chronic illnesses. The procedure is also not performed when there are inflammatory processes in the treatment area. Before surgery the patient undergoes the necessary medical examinations.
Preparation for bullhorn cheiloplasty
Before the procedure the patient has a consultation with the doctor and undergoes the necessary examinations. Laboratory tests or other diagnostic procedures may be recommended. Some time before surgery the doctor may advise limiting smoking and avoiding certain medications. Following these recommendations helps properly prepare the body for the procedure.
Recovery after bullhorn cheiloplasty
After surgery mild swelling or a feeling of tightness in the tissues may occur. During the first days patients are advised to follow their doctor’s recommendations and limit physical activity. Sutures are typically removed after several days depending on the type of suturing material used. The final result can be evaluated after complete tissue healing.
Anna Brodska
Service cost All prices
Face Lift
Cheiloplasty / Bullhorn Lip Lift
from 75 656 uah (price from €1500 - to the NBU exchange rate on the day of payment)
Anna Brodska
Відгуки пацієнтів
Anna Brodska
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheiloplasty / Bullhorn
Face Lift
How bullhorn cheiloplasty differs from lip augmentation
Bullhorn cheiloplasty changes the position of the upper lip and shortens the distance between the nose and lip. Lip augmentation is usually performed with fillers and is aimed at increasing lip volume. In some cases these methods may be combined.
Will the scar be visible after surgery
The scar is located beneath the base of the nose and is usually well concealed within the natural crease. After healing it becomes less noticeable. Proper care during the recovery period helps improve the appearance of the scar.
Will natural lip movement change after surgery
The goal of the procedure is to correct the position of the lip without affecting natural facial expressions. After complete healing lip movement remains natural. This helps maintain a natural appearance of the smile.
How long the results last
The results of bullhorn cheiloplasty are long-lasting. Unlike injectable methods, the effect does not require regular repetition. However natural aging processes may gradually influence the tissues over time.
Can the procedure be combined with other surgeries
Bullhorn cheiloplasty can be combined with other aesthetic procedures. For example, it may be performed together with rhinoplasty or other rejuvenation techniques. This combined approach helps achieve a more balanced and harmonious result.
When patients can return to normal life
