As with most lines, lines above the lip slowly develop due to several factors, such as:
- the ageing process
- repetitive movements
- UV exposure
- genetics
- changes in skin quality and firmness
These lines tend to become more noticeable over time, eventually becoming visible at rest and for some, can change the appearance of the mouth and lip borders.
At Bella Plastic Surgery in Sydney, we offer nonsurgical treatments that help reduce the appearance of these lines while also supporting the lip area and surrounding skin.
Appropriate Treatment Options
Often, we recommend a combination of treatments to support this area. The treatments prescribed will depend on factors such as your lip anatomy, skin quality, muscle movements and how deeply established the lines are.
Muscle Relaxant Treatments
Some individuals benefit from relaxing the muscles around the upper lip. These muscle relaxant products block the nerve signals from the brain to the muscles that trigger muscle contraction. This helps reduce muscle activity and can minimise the appearance of these lines.
Muscle relaxant treatment is not suitable for everyone with lip lines, though. The muscle around the mouth is essential for performing vital activities such as pronouncing words, drinking through a straw and drinking in general. If the muscle becomes overly relaxed, it can negatively affect the ability to perform these activities. Therefore, careful assessment and a conservative approach are essential and sometimes, other treatments are more suitable.
Lip Augmentation Treatment
This treatment may help expand the lips, add volume and create additional structure in the cupid’s bow area. At Bella Plastic Surgery, this treatment is performed using the Kiss Me Lip Augmentation Technique, which places product on the inner side of the upper lip. This technique can help slightly elevate the upper lip, support the overall lip structure and create a more defined border. This enhancement can draw attention away from the fine vertical lines above the lip.
Dry Skin Needling (Microneedling)
This involves treating the area with fine needles at a controlled depth. We use an etching technique that helps to release tight tissue and encourage contraction within the line itself, possibly softening the appearance of fine lines over time.
Dry needling with polynucleotides
Polynucleotides come from purified salmon DNA and can help support skin regeneration processes by encouraging the production of collagen and elastin. At Bella Plastic Surgery, we sometimes apply polynucleotides immediately after dry needling to support skin regeneration. This treatment is more of a long-term approach to support skin health rather than to provide immediate visible change.
Skin boosters
This treatment uses a synthetic product that mimics the complex sugars naturally found in our tissues. When placed just below the skin’s surface, it forms a light, supportive layer that creates a softer, filter-like appearance in the treated area. Treatment lasts only a few months and usually a series of treatments spaced several weeks apart is recommended.
Laser resurfacing
Various ablative laser treatments, such as erbium or CO2 laser, can effectively treat lines above the lips. They work by creating controlled channels in the skin stimulate new tissue formation. However, these laser treatments not only require downtime but also carry a high level of risk, including scarring and pigmentation changes. Factors such as your healing ability, skin type and history must be carefully assessed before treatment. Sometimes, we may recommend a test patch before starting laser treatment.
What are benefits of Laser treatment?
Keratoses can be removed within minutes from the face and body. For facial keratoses, laser treatments may avoid the scarring from the liquid nitrogen or acid-based chemicals commonly used in many medical clinics.
While some minor scarring can occur from a laser treatment, this is usually pale white and no larger than the treated area. Facial skin heals very well. In most cases, you will be unable to detect the original location of the keratosis once the treated area has healed.
The Importance of Skin Health
Maintaining good skin health is vital for managing lines anywhere on the face, including those above the lips. To support skin health, we often recommend medical-grade skincare and non-invasive light-based treatments.
Downtime After Treatment
The required downtime will depend on the treatment you receive. Some treatments will not require any downtime, while others may leave you with redness, swelling, bruising, tenderness or sensitivity that may take time to settle.
Treatment Costs
Treatment plans for treating lines above the lips are individualised. Therefore, you can only be given a price after your initial consultation. During this time, you may be recommended one or several treatments, which will impact the overall cost.
Potential Risks
Once again, potential risks and side effects depend on the treatments chosen. Mostly, side effects are mild and temporary, such as tenderness, redness, bruising, swelling or skin sensitivity. In rare cases, effects can be significant or longer lasting. During your consultation, all potential risks will be discussed with you before treatment commences.
To learn more about these issues, please see our Potential Risks and Complications page.
