Can lip augmentation reduce my philtrum length?

Hi and thanks for your question. It sounds like your goals are realistic, so it is likely that a bit of filler in your upper lip will help reduce the appearance of your philtrum. Even if it doesn't decrease it physically, augmentation will make the philtrum look shorter by increasing the size of the upper lip. Of course, this must be done with an eye on a natural result. The last thing we want is an over augmented lip. Hope that helps.

Thank you for your question. Lip augmentation through the direct lip lift would create a slightly raised effect to your upper lift. I suggest that you consult with a board certified facial plastic surgeon.
Best wishes,

Dear Onwardsupwards,Thank you for your question. Lip fillers will not physically reduce the length of your philtrum but will reduce the appearance by making the upper lip look fuller. Other procedures include a lip lift where the shape of the lip can be modified to look fuller while shortening the length of the philtrum. A physical exam is necessary to determine what the best step is for you. When you are ready, please look at before and after photos on my website and we can set up a complimentary in-person consultation to address your concerns and answer all of your questions.Best regards,Nima Shemirani

Thanks for your question. Without any photos it's difficult to give an exact recommendation. However, strategically  placed filler, containing hyaluronic acids such as Juvederm, Restylane, and Volbella, can create fuller volume in the lips. Indeed, it can even suddenly change the shape of the lip as well. However, if you have significant lip shape issues, such as a long upper lip or drooping corners, then you could opt for other procedures, such as an upper or corner lip lift, in order for you to achieve your ideal lip shape. Additional options also include fat grafting or implants. Best to consult with a board certified physician in order to achieve best individual results.

Thank you for sharing your question.  Though fillers will not physically change the distance if placed correctly they will camouflage the 15mm to make the distance appear smaller. Hope this helps.

The answer is MAYBE.  Depends on your skin elasticity, vermilion characteristics, which filler is used, how the filler is placed, and where the filler is positioned.

Dear onwardsupwards,fillers can make you philtrum look shorter. I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. You will get the best recommendations after a thorough examination.Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS 
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery  
Member, Am. Society of Plastic Surgery

The easiest and most definitive way to reduce the length of the philtrum is to undergo a surgical lip lift.  A small incision is made under the nose and a carefully determined amount of tissue is removed.  This can also be done to help improve asymmetries as well.  By removing the tissue, the upper lip is shortened vertically and the philtrum length is reduced.  This procedure may be performed under local anesthesia, IV sedation, or general anesthesia.  In addition, the lip can be augmented to enhance the shape with fillers or fat grafting either at the same time or in the future.  Filler or fat alone, in some instances, may help camouflage a long upper lip.  It may also result in a longer upper lip if the lip is injected with too much filler/fat.  

Using fillers or fat to augment your lips will not directly reduce your philtrum lenght but it can make your philtrum APPEAR relatively shorter due to a wider upper lip. It is important to have an evaluation with an experienced injector to make sure the filler or fat is placed correctly. Incorrect placement or amounts of filler may actually increase your philtrum length which is opposite of what you want. A surgical lip lift is a definitive way to reduce the philtrum length. Hope this helps!Johnson C. Lee, MD Plastic Surgery@drjohnsonlee

Thank you for your excellent question.  It is difficult to comment without seeing photographs.  Based on your narrative alone, your desired result might be achievable with properly placed filler.  Please be sure to see an expert injector for an in-person consultation to fully discuss your goals and expectations in order to determine the best treatment plan.  Beautiful and natural results can be achieved.  Hope this helps and best wishes!