What to do if I have adequate tooth show but a long philtrum? (Photos)

Question

My philtrum is 17 inches long and I want it to be 12 inches long. I had a consult with a PS and he said he doesn't recommend a liplift for me since I already have adequate tooth show when my mouth is at rest. He said I will end up with a rabbit look if I have a lip lift. The only reason I have tooth show though is because my teeth are quite long. Would it be a bad idea to have my teeth filed down at the dentist before having the liplift to prevent the rabbit look?

Steve Laverson, MD, FACS · Answer

Human beauty, even captivating magnificent beauty, takes many shapes, sizes, colors, origins, and proportions.  Measured norms and traditional relationships are guidelines, but the ultimate arbiter, the final authority, the most qualified judge, is the human eye.  Considering your submitted data, your sentiments, and your pictures, mine tells me that your upper lip is absolutely perfect for your face.   Lip surgery of any type, in my opinion, is contra-indicated.

Ross A. Clevens, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. I suggest that you consult with a board certified facial plastic surgeon for an in-person examination. You may be an ideal candidate for a combination of lip lifting and fillers.
Best wishes,

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear mad90,based on your photos, it does look like your philtrum is long but without an examination it is hard to tell whether you are a good candidate for a surgery. You can always ask for a second opinion from a board-certified plastic surgeon. Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS 
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery  
Member, Am. Society of Plastic Surgery

Jeffrey Jumaily, MD · Answer

You have a really nice smile and the right amount of tooth show. I do not recommend a lip lift based on these photos. Filing your teeth down is not a good idea as it can lead to other dental issues. Get a couple of opinions in person to help make things clearer. Best wishes

What to do if I have adequate tooth show but a long philtrum? (Photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Not a good idea

Answer: Not a good idea

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.

What to do if I have adequate tooth show but a long philtrum? (Photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Not a good idea

Answer: Not a good idea

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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.