Person with wavy red hair smiling and looking to the side against a plain background.

When it comes to lip enhancement, most people think of injectable fillers — but there are surgical options that offer long-term, natural-looking results without the need for ongoing maintenance. One advanced technique is the lower lip advancement, a specialized procedure that enhances volume and contour using your own tissue.

At John Hilinski, M.D. Plastic Surgery in San Diego, patients can achieve a fuller, more balanced lower lip through this subtle yet highly effective surgical method.

What Is Lower Lip Advancement?

The lower lip advancement procedure uses a technique called a V-Y advancement flap, which rearranges tissue from inside the lower lip (the mucosal surface) to create a fuller outward appearance.

Dr. Hilinski performs lower lip advancement using a technique known as the V-Y advancement flap. A small, V-shaped incision is made on the inner lining of the lower lip — completely hidden inside the mouth. The underlying tissue is then carefully advanced outward and upward to create a fuller, more defined lip contour.

As the incision is closed in a Y-shaped pattern, it adds natural volume to the lower lip without the need for implants or fillers. Since all incisions are internal, there are no visible scars, making this procedure a discreet and permanent solution for lip enhancement.

This technique allows for precise, tailored enhancement, offering a natural boost in lip volume that is permanent and requires no synthetic implants or repeated filler sessions.

Why Choose Dr. John Hilinski in San Diego?

Dr. John Hilinski is a Harvard-educated, double board-certified facial plastic surgeon with an exclusive focus on facial procedures. His reputation for surgical excellence and precision has made him a trusted name in lip enhancement and facial contouring throughout San Diego and Southern California.

By focusing solely on the face, Dr. Hilinski ensures that every patient receives highly specialized, anatomically informed care that is tailored to their unique aesthetic goals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Lower Lip Advancement

Considering a lower lip advancement procedure but still have questions? You’re not alone. At John Hilinski, M.D. Plastic Surgery in San Diego, we believe informed patients make the best decisions. Here are answers to some of the most common questions about this advanced lip enhancement technique so you can feel confident exploring your options.

What makes lower lip advancement different from fillers?

Unlike dermal fillers, which provide temporary results and require repeated treatments, lower lip advancement is a surgical solution that offers permanent enhancement. It also avoids the risk of overfilled or uneven results common with injectables.

Will there be any visible scars?

No. One of the greatest advantages of the V-Y advancement technique is that all incisions are made inside the mouth, meaning no visible scars on the outside of the lip.

What is the recovery time?

Most patients experience some swelling and mild discomfort for the first 3–5 days. Full healing usually occurs within 1–2 weeks, and patients can return to work or social activities relatively quickly.

Who is a good candidate for lower lip advancement?

This procedure is ideal for anyone seeking a fuller, more defined lower lip without relying on fillers. It’s especially suited for patients who want a permanent, natural result and have realistic expectations about the outcome.

Ready to Enhance Your Lower Lip?

If you’re seeking a refined, long-term solution for a fuller lower lip, lower lip advancement may be the perfect option. With no external scarring and results that last a lifetime, it’s a discreet yet powerful way to enhance your facial harmony.

Contact John Hilinski, M.D. Plastic Surgery in San Diego, CA, today to schedule your consultation and explore how this advanced lip technique can help you achieve the look you’ve always wanted.

Posted on behalf of John Hilinski, M.D.

11199 Sorrento Valley Road Suite 202
San Diego, CA 92121

Skip footer

Request a Consultation

Complete the form below to request an appointment call back.

Name(Required)
Procedures you are interested in (check all that apply):
How would you like us to reply?

11199 Sorrento Valley Road Suite 202
San Diego, CA 92121

Opening Hours

Monday–Thursday: 8:30AM–4:30PM
Friday: 9:00AM–3:00PM

Follow Us

Request a Consultation Call Us