Is my philtrum too long or misshapen for a Lip Lift? (Photo)

Question

I have an excessively long philtrum at 18mm. I also feel as if it’s shaped oddly (very wide) compared to most I’ve seen. I have long wanted a lip lift but have read that 5-6” mm is the maximum. I don’t want my mouth to be permanently open and I also already have a large lower lip that I don’t want to accentuate. Is there a surgical solution for this?

Michael P. Morrissette, DDS, FACS · Answer

It appears from your photo that you are a candidate for lip lift based on the distance between your lip vermilion and nose. Ideally, the distance should be 11-13 mm in a women. Therefore you could have up to 7 mm removed. The width of your philtrum appears normal but the central portion of your lip does not show enogh pink. This would be improved with a lip lift.

Frank Lista, MD · Answer

Hi, thanks for your question. I recommend that you book an in person consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon in order to get an accurate assessment. That said, I don't think your philtrum is too long, in fact a lip lift is actually a great procedure for those seeking to shorten their philtrum in order to achieve more overall balance in the face.

Edwin F. Williams, III, MD · Answer

Your philtrum shape does not change your candidacy for a lip lift. The location of the incision will not change. It will still achieve the results of shortening the white portion of the upper lip. Best of luck!

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

Your philtrum is not too long. The normal length is about 12-15 millimeters. A lip lift does 4 things: shortens the distance between your nose and upper lip, increases the mucosa of the upper lip, increases the incisor show and pulls up the corners. The procedure takes less than 1 hour to perform under local anesthesia and costs $3,000.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Is my philtrum too long or misshapen for a Lip Lift? (Photo)

Answers (4)