How much of the skin on upper lip I can remove for a natural look? (photos)

Question

From bottom center of my nose to the center of the upper lip is 22mm. How much mm maximum of the skin on upper lip I can remove for a natural look? I am not looking for much fuller lips or show too much teeth, I am going for the shorter distance b/w lip and nose. Thank you

Gary Linkov, MD · Answer

With your philtrum length being about 22mm, I would estimate that the ideal amount of skin to remove during a surgical lip lift for you would be about 6-8mm. This would give you a subtle yet noticeable change without looking overly "done" or exposing too much of your teeth. You certainly seem like you would be excellent candidate for this procedure based on the photos. Best of luck. 
Gary Linkov, MD
Lip Lift Specialist
Manhattan

Farhad Rafizadeh, MD · Answer

The picture with your mouth open is the only one that matters and it shows adequate teeth visibility. Therefore you can only remove 4-5 mm of your upper lip to avoid too much teeth visibility. Even though you might still be more that 15 mm, in your situation because of the low position of your teeth, it would be appropriate..

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

You stated that from the bottom center of your nose to the center of your upper lip is 22 mm.  A normal range is from 12 to 15 mm depending on age and facial geometry.  However, if just the center was removed you would end up with the bunny look, which is unacceptable.  You will need your corners elevated since they are downturned and I recommend an extended lip lift.  This will shorten the distance between your nose and upper lip, increase mucosa of upper lip, increase incisor show and pull up the corners.  I usually take out about 6 mm centrally and 10 mm laterally at most.  Best Wishes,Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Douglas M. Stevens, MD · Answer

I would be conservative on your upper lip lift in order to prevent over show of the frontal teeth.  In your photo in repose your teeth show quite adequately and this would limit the amount of skin I would remove centrally.

Piotr Osuch, MD · Answer

hi there, 
with such measurements you appear to be a good candidate for a lip lift. I have a track record of removing 1 cm of the skin for ladies with philtrum around 2 cm. All of them enjoy fuller lips now. BUT: it's key to take into consideration other factors such as teeth show, shape & position of your nose.

On the 2nd picture, with slight smile you've got fairly good teeth visibility which will make aggressive lip lift impossible because of the risk of bunny look. All the criteria should be weighted before taking a decision of a LL.

I could say more if I saw your full face photos - face on & both profiles.

best regards, 
Piotr Osuch, MD, PhD

How much of the skin on upper lip I can remove for a natural look? (photos)

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