Would a lip lift help my teeth show more when I smile? (Photos)

Question

I’m thinking about a lip lift. I don’t think my philtrum is too long, but I HATE that my teeth don’t show very much when my mouth is open or when I smile. Also, a little more volume in my top lip would be nice too. Would a lip lift be worth it? Or is my philtrum too short already? Also, I feel like my lips are pretty asymmetrical. Would a lip lift affect this? It’s not as much of a big deal as the teeth but it would be a nice bonus

James M. Pearson, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. The Lip Lift procedure is performed to accentuate the size and/or shape of the upper lip by removing skin from the region underneath the nose. As the distance is decreased between the nose and the lip, the red lip is 'lifted'. In appropriate individuals, shortening this distance may impart or restore a more favorable balance to lips and face.
In most cases following a Lip Lift, there is improved teeth show while the lips are separated while at rest and with normal speaking. The amount of teeth show seen during smiling is influenced by the muscles associated with smiling more than the lip shortening which results from a Lip Lift. Consult with an experienced Lip Lift surgeon to learn about options available to achieve your goals.

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello kpascThere are a few features of our faces that express such beauty and expression as our smiles. We now have so many options both surgical and non surgical to create beautiful lips and a sexy smile. In general, we can reshape, rejuvenate and add volume. There are fillers, silicone implants, dissolving thread implants, lip lifts, lip reductions, peels, and then of course cosmetic dental care to improve the color shape and contour of your teeth and gums.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

Yes,
you are a good candidate for a lip lift but not using the traditional
technique.  Instead, you will need a
lateral extension.  If you look at your
photographs, you will see that the corners of your mouth are turned down.  If you underwent a central lip lift, it will
create more frowning.  You will need more
excision laterally then centrally.  The lip
lift should expose your upper incisors, shorten the distance between your lip
and nose and increase the upper lip fullness. Best Wishes,Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Bryan Rolfes, MD · Answer

Yes, based on your photos you appear to be a good candidate for a lip lift. The amount of visible teeth is the best way to decide on how much to lift your lift (as opposed to just the length of your upper lip). I typically aim to make at least the bottom of the top four teeth visible at rest. Right now you can't even see the bottom of your middle two teeth at rest.  This also shows more teeth with your smile.  -Dr. Rolfes

John L. Burns Jr., MD · Answer

A long upper lip can make you appear much older.  Lip shortening is an office based procedure which can be done under local anesthesia to shorten the upper lip hiding the scar around the nasal ala, columellar base and nostril sill.

Would a lip lift help my teeth show more when I smile? (Photos)

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Answer: Lip lift to show more of your teeth

Answer: Lip lift to show more of your teeth

Answer: Long Upper Lip

Answer: Long Upper Lip

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Everything you need to know about Lip Lift

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Would a lip lift help my teeth show more when I smile? (Photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Lip lift to show more of your teeth

Answer: Lip lift to show more of your teeth

Answer: Long Upper Lip

Answer: Long Upper Lip

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Lip Lift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.