Bullhorn

The “bullhorn” operation, derived from the term “bullhorn,” is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to reduce the distance between the nose and the upper lip. This procedure is often performed to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the face, especially in cases where the patient has an elongated philtrum – the area between the nose and the upper lip.

During the operation, the surgeon makes an incision, typically hidden beneath the nostrils, in the shape of a bull’s horn, hence the name of the procedure. Through this incision, a small strip of skin and other tissues is removed to decrease the space between the nose and the lip.

Reduces the distance between the nose and the lip but can also give the lips a fuller and more expressive appearance.

The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia, sometimes in combination with sedative medications. The duration of the procedure varies but typically takes one to two hours.

After the surgery, there may be swelling and redness in the incision area, which usually subsides within a few days. Patients are advised to avoid strenuous exercises and facial muscle strain for a certain period after the operation.

Brief information about the surgery

  • Surgery Time: 1 hour

  • Anesthesia Type: Sedation

  • Hospitalization: 1-2 hours

  • Return to Normal Life: Within 4-5 days

  • Clinic Visits: 3-4 times

  • Stitches Removal: 14 days

Why do patients consider bullhorn surgery?

Patients may consider this surgery for several reasons:

  • Improvement in Appearance: Many individuals aim for a more youthful and attractive appearance. With age, the distance between the nose and the upper lip may increase, which is perceived as a sign of aging. Bullhorn surgery helps restore a younger look to this area of the face.

  • Enhancement of the Upper Lip: Some people may have a less defined or thin upper lip. Lifting the upper lip can improve its visibility and contribute to a more balanced and harmonious appearance of the lips.

  • Smile Enhancement: This surgery can change the way the lips appear when smiling, making the smile more open and attractive.

  • Correction of Asymmetry: In some cases, Bullhorn surgery can be used to correct lip asymmetry, providing a more symmetrical and aesthetic appearance.

  • Psychological Comfort: Individuals dissatisfied with the appearance of their lips may experience psychological discomfort. Lip lifting can boost self-esteem and overall well-being.

Who is a suitable candidate for the surgery?

Candidates for this surgery typically meet the following criteria:

  • Age: Although there are no strict age limits, the procedure is often chosen by middle-aged or older individuals, as the distance between the nose and the upper lip tends to increase with age.

  • Length of Philtrum: Ideal candidates have an elongated philtrum (the area between the upper lip and nose), making the upper lip visually smaller and less expressive.

  • Health and Skin Conditions: Patients should be in overall good health and have no serious skin conditions in the surgical area.

  • Realistic Expectations: Candidates should have realistic expectations regarding the results of the surgery and understand that the procedure will alter the appearance of their lips but not transform their entire face.

  • Mild Skin Ptosis: The surgery is best suited for those without significant skin ptosis (sagging) around the mouth and nose area.

  • No Medical Contradictions: Candidates should not have medical conditions that could increase the risk of complications during or after the surgery.

  • Dissatisfaction with Current Lip Appearance: The desire to improve the appearance of the lips, make them more expressive and youthful.

Why South Korea for cosmetic surgery?

South Korea is renowned for its annual highest number of cosmetic procedures and surgeries in the world. Local physicians are considered the most educated and competitive globally, as only 0.01% of medical school graduates can become plastic surgeons here. The country’s medical equipment and facilities are on par with those in the United States and Germany, placing it among the top three countries with the best technical equipment in clinics.

All anti-aging procedures are performed in accredited clinics that have permission to treat foreign patients, and they have in-house anesthesiologists. All surgeons operating on our patients have 15 to 30 years of experience, specializing in soft tissue surgeries, and perform no more than 2 surgeries per day. Please fill out the QUESTIONNAIRE so that we can calculate the cost of treatment for you, provide preliminary consultation, and prepare a plan for your trip to South Korea for the surgery.

How to prepare for a bulhorn surgery in South Korea

  • Refrain from eating and drinking for 8 hours before the procedure. Take a shower.

  • Avoid taking Aspirin, Ibuprofen (including medications like Advil or Motrin), and other drugs that may increase the risk of excessive bleeding for 2 weeks before the surgery. Tylenol is prohibited only for 3 days before the operation.

  • Do not smoke, including hookahs and e-cigarettes. Smoking reduces blood flow to the skin and can slow down tissue healing. If you smoke, the doctor will recommend quitting before the surgery. Some doctors refuse to perform surgery on smoking patients due to a high risk of complications. It is unsafe to be near smoking relatives and friends or in public places designated for smoking.

  • Review your medical history. Be prepared to answer questions about current and past illnesses, as well as any recent medications you have taken. Please do not hide this information from the surgeon and coordinators.

  • Visit the surgeon for an examination and show them photos of the desired result.

  • If you have had tests less than a month ago, you can bring them with you. If not, we will conduct all necessary tests in Korea.

  • Ask someone to drive you to the clinic or help you after the surgery if you plan to come by car.

  • Place items next to your bed that you may need during rest, such as lip balm, water, a chocolate bar, or a mobile phone.

How the surgery is performed

Before the surgery, you will have at least 2 consultations with the surgeon and undergo tests to gain access to the procedure. On the morning of the operation, the surgeon designs your face, answers your questions, and hands you over to the medical coordinator for preparation. You will be taken to the restroom, asked about your well-being, and the time of your last meal and drink will be checked. Then, you will be escorted to the operating room, where your hands and feet will be secured to ensure your safety and prevent involuntary movements during the surgeon’s work.

A catheter will be inserted into your hand to deliver medications and anesthesia into your bloodstream. After the anesthesiologist puts you to sleep, the surgeon begins the operation: a careful incision is made under your nose, excess tissues are removed, and stitches are applied.

After the surgery, a special bandage is placed on your face to protect the surgical area, hold the tissues together, and reduce swelling. The patient wakes up and is escorted to a recovery room for further recuperation.

What to expect after surgery

After the surgery is completed, the translator or medical nurses will wake you up and help you transition to your room. Most patients do not remember this moment, and it feels as though they woke up in a warm bed – that’s the effect of anesthesia. In the first 10-20 minutes after waking up, you may experience chills, but this will quickly pass. There is a warming mattress on your bed to make this period more comfortable. Some degree of pain may be present, although it is dulled by painkillers and medications used during the surgery. In addition to discomfort, you may notice swelling in your face – this is normal as your body begins the regeneration process. You will stay in the clinic for a few hours after the surgery, with a catheter in your arm delivering medications. Towards the evening, the coordinator and medical nurses will check your condition. If you do not experience symptoms like dizziness and nausea, you can prepare for discharge: change your clothes, collect your medications, and follow post-operative recommendations.

After discharge, you may experience a slight increase in pain, so be sure to place a few pillows under your head to reduce swelling and take the pain medications prescribed by the surgeon, which include pain relievers. You may also experience mild headaches, swelling of the eyes or nose; these are normal symptoms, so do not be alarmed and continue following the rules of rehabilitation. By the end of the week, you will look much better, so try to walk as much as possible and continue sleeping with your head elevated.

After 7 days, the surgeon will remove the stitches. By this time, most of the swelling and hematomas will have subsided, and you will look normal and be able to return to your regular life.

Book a consultation with the clinic coordinator or plastic surgeon today!

You can schedule a consultation by filling out the QUESTIONNAIRE or contacting us on any messenger at +82-10-4214-9603.

Rehabilitation process and post-operative procedures

Immediately after the procedure: Your face will have a bandage, and you may experience moderate pain. You will spend a few hours in the clinic under the observation of medical staff. Your face will start to swell, and you may feel pressure under the bandage; unfortunately, you will have to endure this discomfort for a few days.

Days 1-2: Swelling reaches its peak and spreads throughout your face; this is normal, so continue to follow the rules of rehabilitation.

Days 3-7: Swelling gradually begins to subside. The surgeon checks tissue healing, and medical nurses remove the bandage. Avoid sports and any activities that require you to lower your head. Continue to sleep with your head elevated.

Days 7-14: Removal of stitches, reduction of swelling, disappearance of discomfort, and gradual return to normal life. Regular long walks are recommended for faster recovery. Do not smoke for 25-30 days after the post-operative period; if you introduce an infection, you may require additional surgery. Vaping, hookah, and other forms of smoking are also strictly prohibited. If you couldn’t resist and additional swelling occurs, contact the coordinator immediately and do not hide the cause of infection. The scar is still reddish and noticeable but can be concealed with concealer.

Days 14-21: Continue to avoid intensive workouts and physical exercises. Follow the rules of rehabilitation, do not smoke, and avoid alcohol. Swelling and hematomas decrease to the point that the surgery is not noticeable to others.

Days 21-30: Lips may periodically swell, depending on which side you slept on; swelling may shift left or right, and it may vary each day. Be patient and wait for results.

Days 31-60: Swelling is almost completely gone, and the scar gradually lightens. You will forget that you had surgery. You can start exercising, laughing, and using facial expressions.

Days 60-90: You can swim in the sea, sunbathe, engage in regular activities. Your face may still swell in the mornings, especially after consuming alcohol; don’t worry, the final swelling will subside a year after the surgery.

1 year after the surgery: Complete the rehabilitation process.

Frequently Asked Questions

We inform our patients of the final cost, which includes post-operative care, anesthesia, room stay, medications, and even VAT (which can be refunded as tax-free). The cost of the operation ranges from KRW 2,600,000 to KRW 4,200,000 depending on the clinic. Accredited plastic surgeons in Korea caution that the price of the operation may change after a personal examination and information on whether your surgery is your first or a revision.

Before & After

Patient results may vary. Please remember that to provide you with detailed information about treatment and your trip, you need to fill out a QUESTIONNAIRE, describe your desired results in detail, and attach your photos. The information provided on the website does not guarantee that this procedure is suitable for you.