Different Types of Lip Lifts in Korea Explained

Korea is one of the top destinations for lip lift surgery thanks to its precise incision techniques, fast healing, and natural-looking results. A lip lift shortens the philtrum, enhances the Cupid’s bow, and creates a fuller upper lip without fillers.

But not all lip lifts are the same. Korean plastic surgeons offer multiple variations depending on your anatomy and aesthetic goals.
Here are the most common types of lip lifts in Korea—fully explained.

1. Bullhorn Lip Lift (Subnasal Lip Lift)

⭐ Most common in Korea
⭐ Best for overall lip enhancement

The bullhorn lip lift (also called a subnasal lip lift) uses a curved incision hidden beneath the base of the nose. A small amount of skin is removed to lift the entire upper lip.

What it improves:

• Long philtrum
• Flat upper lip
• Lack of visible vermilion (pink part)
• Weak Cupid’s bow definition

Why Koreans love it:

• Most natural change in proportions
• Scar hides extremely well under the nose
• Works well on both Asian and Western facial structures

Best For:
Patients who want a noticeable but natural upper-lip lift.

2. Cupid’s Bow Lip Lift (Central Lip Lift)

⭐ Best for shape and definition
⭐ Great for “flat” Cupid’s bows

This technique focuses on lifting only the center portion of the upper lip. It creates a more defined Cupid’s bow and increases tooth show when smiling.

What it improves:

• Flat or undefined Cupid’s bow
• Lack of central lip projection
• Weak lip shape

Why Korean surgeons perform it:

Many patients want a heart-shaped, feminine upper lip — this lift achieves that without overfilling.

Best For:
Patients who like their lip length but want more shape.

3. Italian Lip Lift

⭐ Best for minimal scarring
⭐ Subtle, refined enhancement

The Italian lip lift uses two small incisions placed under each nostril rather than a single long incision. These tiny cuts allow a gentle lift without lifting the entire lip.

What it improves:

• Mild philtrum elongation
• Low central lip volume
• Symmetry issues

Why Koreans like it:

• Very discreet scar placement
• Faster healing
• Perfect for subtle, “untouched” results

Best For:
Patients who want a conservative change with minimal incision visibility.

4. Corner Lip Lift (Smile Lift)

⭐ Best for lifting downturned corners
⭐ Popular for “resting sad face” correction

This technique lifts the corners of the mouth to create a naturally relaxed, pleasant expression.

What it improves:

• Downturned lip corners
• “Sad” or tired resting expression
• Asymmetry at the mouth edge

Why it’s popular in Korea:

The corner lift gives a youthful, positive facial expression without fillers or Botox.

Best For:
Patients who want their lips to look more lifted, friendly, and balanced.

5. Combined Lip Lift (Hybrid Techniques)

⭐ Most customizable option
⭐ Uses 2–3 lifting methods together

Many Korean surgeons combine multiple lip lift techniques for optimal proportions. Popular combos include:

• Bullhorn + Corner Lift → Full upper-lip lift + lifted mouth corners
• Italian + Cupid’s Bow → Shape enhancement + subtle lift
• Bullhorn + Lip Tint Laser → Lift + pigmentation correction

Why combination lifts are common in Korea:

Korean aesthetics emphasize harmonized ratios, not just a single improvement. Combination lifts create a balanced, soft, feminine appearance.

How to Choose the Right Lip Lift in Korea

Your best lip lift depends on your anatomy:

✔ Long philtrum?

Bullhorn Lip Lift
Italian Lip Lift (if you want subtle results)

✔ Flat or undefined Cupid’s bow?

Cupid’s Bow Lip Lift
Bullhorn Lip Lift (with shaping)

✔ Downturned corners?

Corner Lip Lift
Corner + Bullhorn combo

✔ Thin upper lip?

Bullhorn Lip Lift
Cupid’s Bow enhancement

✔ Want almost no visible scar?

Italian Lip Lift

✔ Want the biggest lift?

Bullhorn Lip Lift

Why Korea Is a Top Destination for Lip Lifts

Korean plastic surgeons focus on:

• Precision micro-sutures for minimal scarring
• Delicate shaping instead of exaggeration
• Natural enhancement rather than dramatic lifting
• Balanced facial proportions
• Advanced scar-care protocols

This results in extremely soft, feminine, youthful outcomes with nearly invisible scars.

Final Thoughts

Korea offers some of the most refined lip lift techniques in the world, from subtle Italian lifts to structured bullhorn lifts and delicate Cupid’s bow shaping.
Whether you want a shorter philtrum, a more defined lip shape, or a lifted smile, Korean surgeons specialize in creating natural, harmonious results that last.