Could lip lift & rhinoplasty together reducing my philtrum length? (Photo)

Question

Hi, I am going to book in a revision rhinoplasty and septoplasty; however I want to shorten the length of my philtrum so was considering a lip lift. I have tooth show when my mouth is on repose however some before and after photos I have seen of people who have had lip lifts have had similar without a HUGE amount of tooth show. Is there a way a combination of both the rhinoplasty and lip lift could be used together for an effective result of reducing my philtrum length.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

A lip lift certainly reduces the length.  However, you already have incisor show.  It is possible that you could lower your columella.  Unfortunately, you have not provided a lateral view but the columella does look somewhat contracted.  This may be done at the same time to improve your philtrum length.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Thank you for your thoughtful question. It’s great that you’re planning ahead and considering facial balance in conjunction with your revision rhinoplasty and septoplasty.

Yes, a lip lift and rhinoplasty can absolutely be performed together to effectively reduce the appearance of a long philtrum and improve overall facial harmony. In fact, combining these procedures is often ideal when carefully planned, as the nasal base and upper lip share an anatomical relationship—adjusting one can influence the appearance of the other.

A lip lift shortens the philtrum by removing a small strip of skin beneath the nose, which elevates the upper lip and can subtly increase tooth show. However, as you’ve noticed in some before-and-after photos, the amount of visible tooth show post-procedure can vary depending on individual anatomy, lip mobility, and surgical technique.

If you're already undergoing rhinoplasty, a skilled facial plastic surgeon can coordinate both procedures to ensure proportionate and natural-looking results. This approach can:

Reduce philtrum length

Enhance tooth show in a controlled, aesthetic way

Maintain balance with your new nasal contours

Be sure to discuss your goals and any concerns about lip proportions and expression with your surgeon during your consultation. With the right planning, combining these procedures can provide a very elegant and refreshed outcome.

Wishing you all the best in your surgical journey!

Farhad Rafizadeh, MD · Answer

A lip lift procedure shortens the philtrum, while a rhinoplasty tends to have the opposite effect. If you go to an experienced and talented plastic surgeon, they will consider that fact, and do your lip lift accordingly. The other issue is that you have considerable teeth showing despite a very long philtrum. One has to keep that in mids and plan the lip lift accordingly.

Jacob Tower, MD · Answer

Hello, hope you are doing well! Rhinoplasty and lip lift surgery can be done safely in a single setting as you describe. This is done routinely in our practice for patients under going procedures for facial feminization, facial rejuvenation, etc. A conservative lip lift can very effectively reduce the length of your philtrum without increasing dental show to a significant degree. Best of luck!

Cheers,
Dr. Tower

Could lip lift & rhinoplasty together reducing my philtrum length? (Photo)

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Could lip lift & rhinoplasty together reducing my philtrum length? (Photo)

Answers (4)

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Answer: Rhinoplasty with Lip Lift

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