
Oct
Everyone has heard of a facelift or rhinoplasty, but what you may not have heard of are “tweakments,” little procedures that deliver big results. If you ever look at a celebrity and find something different, read: better! – but you can’t put your finger on what? You’re probably looking at a tweakment.
In Norwalk, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Laurence Kirwan has perfected one such technique that delights patients, both young and old. You may not have heard of a UPPER LIP SHORTENING (or lip lift as it’s sometimes called), but don’t be surprised if you realize it’s just the procedure you need!
As we age, the upper lip lengthens and begins covering the top teeth. This lack of “dental show” greatly contributes to an older-looking face. But it’s not only a sign of aging; some people are born with a long upper lip that detracts from their appearance.
The upper lip shortening is a quick procedure that takes less than one hour and requires no anesthesia.
“The patient is quite comfortable throughout, as I numb the area completely with local anesthetic. For anxious patients, I can offer an oral medication to help them relax, but I find that it’s not necessary even for my jumpiest patients, as the procedure is entirely tolerable.”
Dr Kirwan recalls an 80-year-old patient who came in to chat with him about a facelift. After her consultation, she decided to see how she tolerated a small procedure before committing to the facelift. Dr Kirwan recommended starting with the upper lip shortening. It turns out that the patient was so delighted with how the lip lift rejuvenated her face that she decided to skip the facelift entirely!
“Good for her, bad for me!” laughs Dr Kirwan. “Of course, I’m kidding. I was delighted for her; my plastic surgery philosophy has always been that less is more.”
Patients worry about the scar, which Dr Kirwan carefully hides under the patient’s nose. According to Dr Kirwan, this is why it is of utmost importance to only see a doctor who can prove he is experienced with this small but complex procedure.
“I’ve done upper lift shortenings on patients of all skin colors with excellent results. It’s a matter of knowing where to place the incision, how much tension to use, and what type of suture works best. A lot of factors go into getting the best result, and there’s a lot that can go wrong in the wrong hands. This is not a procedure for someone calling themselves a plastic surgeon but who lacks the necessary training. You need the real deal.”
Dr Kirwan suggests that patients ask many questions and see lots of before and after photos (and make sure to ask if the images are the doctor’s work! You might be surprised by the answer.)
You can reach us at (475) 250-1581 to schedule an appointment at our office.
Dr. Laurence Kirwan, MD, FRCS, FACS, is an internationally renowned, board-certified plastic surgeon with over 30 years of experience. He trained at Manchester University and completed his Plastic Surgery residency at the University of Missouri. A Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons and American College of Surgeons, he is a leader in aesthetic surgery, specializing in face, breast, and body procedures. Dr. Kirwan has authored multiple scientific papers and books and served as an instructor in prestigious programs. Recognized by Tatler and Russian Vogue, he practices in Connecticut, where he continues to offer personalized, top-tier care to his patients.