Gordon
You are right the swelling will go down, the scars will fade and you will be able to look in the mirrior, I expect the Doc has stiched you lips together in the short term to stop you accidently putting strain on your lips till everything has had time to start to heal.
Take comfort from this post I freaked out when I first saw my neck and arm, now it's rare to get a comment.
Sunshine.. love and hugs
Helen