What should you know about venous lake upper lip?

A venous lake is formed by widened, slow-moving veins near the skin surface. On the upper lip it may be a blue, violet, or red-purple patch or small bump. It can look more prominent when blood pools in the vessel and may soften or blanch when pressed. Because other lesions can resemble it, a clinician considers the history and physical appearance rather than relying on colour alone.

Seek an assessment if the upper-lip mark is new, changing, repeatedly injured, or affecting your confidence. If removal is appropriate, a clinician may offer a procedure that targets and closes the abnormal vessel, including [Electrosurgery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/electrosurgery/). Ask about temporary redness, swelling, crusting, pigment change, and scar care. Keep the area protected from friction and sun, and never cut or squeeze a vascular spot at home.

Arrange prompt care if the lesion enlarges quickly, develops a persistent ulcer, becomes significantly painful, or bleeds without settling after gentle pressure. After a procedure, increasing warmth, pus, fever, or worsening swelling needs review. Sudden change in a dark or blue lip lesion should be examined rather than watched indefinitely.

Ask whether the spot is consistent with a venous lake, what treatment best protects the lip border and movement, what healing usually looks like, and when you should return for review. Ask how to manage bleeding if the area is knocked.