I want my teeth to show when I smile. Lip lift, or Veneers? (photos)

Question

My upper teeth don't show when I smile or talk. I have a big Italian nose haha - and I think my lower nasal spine is getting in the way of my lip when I smile. I may need more than a conventional lip lift because It seems that the bone (or nasal spine) above my Frenum is getting in the way. I am also looking into veneers. What are your suggestions? Thank you

Gary Linkov, MD · Answer

Your philtrum is quite short. I would recommend you first see a cosmetic dentist. I do perform many lip lifts on men and special techniques do apply. See link below.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

The distance between your nose and upper lip appears to be normal.  A lip lift will shorten the distance and may make it look abnormally short.  You may be better off considering a rhinoplasty, which will allow your columella to be raised higher and achieve the desired look.Best Wishes,Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Farhad Rafizadeh, MD · Answer

Thank you for submitting multiple pictures, but the most important picture which is the one in a relaxed position with your mouth slightly open, is lacking. That picture would show how much teeth if any is visible. Your assessment is correct. Your philtrum is not tall. Your nasal spine and caudal septum sit low and may prevent your lip to rise while smiling. I would need to examine you and do measurements to give you the definitive answer, but it seems that you would need a rhinoplasty to reduce the prominence of your nasal spine and caudal septum. The primary objective of a lip lift is to reduce the height of the philtrum. It can be made as short as 10 mm or occasionally slightly shorter, but without examining you, it is impossible to tell you if this procedure is indicated in your case.

I want my teeth to show when I smile. Lip lift, or Veneers? (photos)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Lip Lift

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I want my teeth to show when I smile. Lip lift, or Veneers? (photos)

Answers (3)

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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.