OPINION: Why is the NHS Losing Surgical Talent?

When considering lip enhancement procedures, it's essential to understand the fundamental differences between lip lifts, fillers, and lip flips. A surgical lip lift permanently modifies the upper lip by removing a small strip of skin below the nose, creating a more youthful lip position. Dermal fillers, meanwhile, involve injectable substances that temporarily add volume. The lip flip utilises small amounts of botulinum toxin to relax the upper lip muscle, creating a subtle outward roll. Each procedure serves different aesthetic goals and suits various patient needs, making it crucial to understand their distinct characteristics before making a treatment decision.

Ptosis, characterised by drooping of one or both upper eyelids, occurs when the muscles responsible for lifting the eyelid (levator muscles) become weakened or damaged. This condition can affect one eye (unilateral ptosis) or both eyes (bilateral ptosis). Common causes include age-related muscle weakness, neurological conditions, or congenital factors present from birth.

The most notable signs include asymmetrical eyelids, reduced field of vision, and compensatory behaviours such as tilting the head backward to see clearly. In cases of sudden droopy eyelid, immediate medical attention is crucial as this could indicate serious underlying conditions, including stroke or neurological disorders.

Modern facelift techniques have evolved significantly, offering more refined and personalised approaches to facial rejuvenation. Today's procedures focus on addressing multiple layers of facial tissue, creating more natural-looking results that stand the test of time. The contemporary approach emphasises maintaining facial harmony whilst reversing visible signs of ageing.