Lip Repositioning Surgery in Falls Church, VA
Lip Repositioning Surgery: What It Is and Why It Matters
Many people feel self-conscious when too much gum shows while smiling. Lip repositioning surgery offers a minimally invasive solution that changes how the upper lip moves to create a more balanced, natural smile.
At Purple Plum Dentistry in Falls Church, VA, we provide this advanced procedure with precision and care, helping patients achieve smiles that reflect how they truly feel.
Transform Your Smile with Our Expertise
While many instances of gummy smiles can be remedied by adjusting the tooth alignment through procedures like crown lengthening or gum lifts, some cases are primarily influenced by the position of the upper lip rather than the shape of the teeth or gums. For individuals with a gummy smile resulting from an elevated upper lip position, lip repositioning emerges as the most effective solution. By undergoing a safe and established corrective surgery known as lip repositioning to adjust the lip height, patients can achieve a more natural and confident smile. This technique is especially effective when the excess gum tissue is caused by hyperactive lip muscles rather than dental or skeletal issues.


What Is Lip Repositioning?
Lip repositioning is a straightforward procedure that involves reducing the upper lip’s height to minimize gum tissue exposure. The process includes removing a small amount of tissue from the inner upper lip and securing it lower with sutures. This repositioning method decreases the elevation of the lip when smiling, improving facial balance and overall appearance. Lasting around 30 to 60 minutes, this surgery provides immediate results, revealing a confident and beautiful smile.
The Benefits of Lip Repositioning
Lip repositioning exposes a consistent, proportional amount of teeth and gums. It corrects excessive gingival display by adjusting how the upper lip moves during a smile. The results are subtle but powerful patients often report improved confidence in their personal and social life.
Recovery is very fast. Only local anesthesia is used and because the repositioning takes place inside the mouth, there is no external scarring. Patients are typically advised to follow a soft diet during the first week, limit upper lip movement, and apply ice packs to manage swelling. Small incisions are made inside the mouth, and sutures are placed to secure the new lip position.
After lip repositioning, we often see our patients smile confidently for the first time. Our patients claim to have boosts in confidence not only in their appearance, but also in their relationships and communication. Many patients observe emotional and psychological benefits as well.
You can be sure that you are making a choice to improve both your health as well as your appearance. When these procedures are performed with excellence, you will notice that your smile is enhanced and those around you will notice it too. The complete healing process usually takes two to three weeks, depending on individual factors such as tissue response and oral habits.
Frequently Asked Questions
The lip repositioning procedure typically lasts between 30 to 60 minutes, making it a relatively quick and efficient solution for reducing excessive gum exposure.
Patients generally experience minimal discomfort after the procedure. Recovery is fast and, since the repositioning takes place inside the mouth, there is no external scarring. Local anesthesia is used to ensure a comfortable experience.
Results are immediate, with a significant reduction in gum exposure visible soon after the procedure. Many patients notice a more balanced and confident smile right away.
Individuals with a gummy smile primarily caused by a high upper lip position are ideal candidates. If your excessive gum display is due to the position of your upper lip rather than the shape of your teeth or gums, lip repositioning may be the right solution for you. Consult with our professionals to determine the best option for your smile.
