Bullhorn lip lift

Before the surgery, the plastic surgeon always conducts a patient consultation, examines the patient, and reviews their medical history. The Bullhorn procedure is not performed if the gums are visible when smiling, as lifting the upper lip would accentuate the defect. A simple test helps determine if Bullhorn is suitable: the patient slightly opens their mouth, and if the upper teeth are not visible, this technique can be used to lift the upper lip.

Additionally, the doctor will check for any contraindications, prescribe an individualized preoperative examination plan, explain the specifics of the surgery and the rehabilitation period, and discuss possible complications.

Before the procedure, patients need to have a complete blood count, urinalysis, blood biochemistry, coagulation tests, ECG, and other examinations according to the prepared plan. This ensures that the patient’s body is ready for surgery, capable of rapid recovery, and has no contraindications.

Here is a list of recommendations to follow before the surgery:

• 2 weeks before cheiloplasty: temporarily stop taking any medications that affect blood clotting, antibiotics, and hormonal pills; avoid alcohol and do not smoke (these factors complicate and prolong the healing process).

• 1 week before the surgery: minimize physical activity, avoid swimming pools, gyms, and saunas; do not perform massages or hair removal in the area of the planned surgery.

• 3–4 days before the surgery: avoid cosmetic procedures; do not use creams, lotions, or other cosmetics.

• On the day of the surgery: do not wear makeup; remove contact lenses and dental prostheses if present.

Bullhorn cheiloplasty is a minimally invasive plastic surgery procedure, so hospitalization is not required. The stages of the surgery can be outlined as follows:

1. The skin is treated with antiseptics.

2. The surgeon marks the areas where the incisions will be made.

3. The surgical area is anesthetized — local anesthesia is preferred for this procedure. However, if the patient is particularly anxious, intravenous sedation may be offered.

4. Following the markings, the surgeon makes the incision, removes excess skin, and brings together the upper and lower edges of the incision. This slightly everts the red contour of the upper lip, making the lip appear fuller and lifted. The suture is placed so that the scar is completely invisible after healing.

The procedure takes approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour. When local anesthesia is used, the patient can go home 3–4 hours after the surgery.

During the first one to two weeks, swelling, possible bruising, and mild discomfort may occur. If non-absorbable sutures were used, they are removed after 7–10 days. Rehabilitation after cheiloplasty involves following these recommendations:

• Treat the suture area with special solutions for 2–3 weeks.

• Limit physical activity, and avoid saunas, swimming pools, and tanning beds for two weeks.

• Eat foods that require minimal chewing.

• Reduce facial expressions and mimicry.

• Avoid hot foods and drinks.

The initial results will be visible once the swelling subsides. The full result can be seen after 2–2.5 months.