Is a lip lift worth it to shorten the philtrum? Are there other options? (Photos)

Question

It seems my upper lip is stretching? It’s really bothering me. What can be done about it to shorten the distance without looking ridiculous? I consulted with a doctor and he wants over $5000 but I’m not seeing much of a difference in pictures of his patients that he showed me

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Hi! I completely understand how frustrating it can feel when your upper lip feels long or “stretched,” especially when it affects your smile and overall facial balance.

Here’s some perspective:

Lip lift surgery – A direct lip lift is the most predictable way to shorten the philtrum (the distance between your nose and upper lip). It involves removing a small strip of skin just under the nose and repositioning the lip upward. When done well, it can subtly improve lip projection, show more upper teeth when smiling, and enhance overall harmony without looking “overdone.”

Considerations –

Cost varies, and some providers charge more for reputation, location, or technique.

Results can be subtle, and not every patient sees a dramatic before-and-after—especially if only a small amount of tissue is removed.

Scarring is usually hidden under the nose, but healing and incision placement are important for a natural look.

Non-surgical or alternative options –

Dermal fillers: Strategic filler in the upper lip can add volume and slightly lift the lip, but it won’t actually shorten the philtrum. It’s more about creating the appearance of a fuller, balanced lip.

Muscle-modulating injections: Rarely used, but can adjust the way the upper lip moves and slightly affect exposure of teeth when smiling.

Realistic expectations – If your goal is truly shortening the philtrum, surgery is the only option that can reliably achieve it. Fillers or other non-surgical options can improve fullness and balance, but they won’t actually reduce the vertical distance.

Stephen Prendiville, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. The purpose of a bullhorn lip lift is to shorten the white upper lip and show more of the red lip via an incision/ skin removal at the base of the nose.  Based on the photos, you appear to have the criteria which would make you a candidate. I would recommend dissolving your filler prior to the lip lift.  It is a very popular and very worthwhile procedure for the right patient

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

The best technique would be an eccentric lip lift, not the bullhorn lip lift. This 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. This takes 1 hour to perform under local anesthesia and costs $4,000.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

It is very difficult to answer question like this without in person evaluation or a series of photos. Lip lift can be done in your case with very fine, well hide , barely visible scar. Second opinion consultation would help. Good luck.

Is a lip lift worth it to shorten the philtrum? Are there other options? (Photos)

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