Lip lift for tooth show without vermilion increase: possible? (Photos)

In the hands of an expert in lip reshaping surgery, it is possible to achieve desired results. One potential option is a 3D lip lift, which is an advanced version of the traditional lip lift technique I invented. This procedure allows for greater control over the shape of the lips while minimizing scarring. Additionally, a medialized corner lip lift might be necessary to elevate the corners of the upper lip.


I hope this helps,
Best of luck !

In your case lip lift with excision of skin and muscle would be a good option. In person consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon familiar with this procedure is recommended. Good luck.

You have asymmetry in your vermilion and lip bulk; so a lip lift would ideally address these issues in addition to reducing philtrum length.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Hello, the answer to your question is YES. An Upper Lip Lift with a "mustache" design where the scar is hidded in the natural creases of the nasal-lip junction is the best procedure for you. It does NOT modify the shape or size of your upper lip and improve your tooth show. It is an out-patient procedure that can be performed under local anesthesia.

The short answer is that there is a technique that can elevate the lip without creating a larger lip and more red mucosal show. A photo of you smiling is going to be of more benefit than one with just your mouth open as that will also help determine the degree of tooth show.

In cases like yours — with a long philtrum, low upper tooth show at rest, and satisfaction with the existing upper lip volume/shape — a modified subnasal (bullhorn) lip lift can be customized to increase tooth show and shorten the philtrum while minimizing change to the upper vermilion. Specifically, techniques like a "deep plane lip lift" or central lip lift focus on internal dissection that repositions the lip without over-everting or thickening the vermilion, preserving your current lip contour. The amount of skin excised and the vector of pull are carefully balanced — more vertical lift (rather than outward) gives you increased incisor show and reduced philtrum length, with minimal change to vermilion height. Additionally, careful muscle manipulation (orbicularis oris release) can help prevent over-rotation or "duck lip" appearance. This approach is particularly appropriate for male patients seeking natural, subtle outcomes.

However, I'd deem a misjudgement thinking your philtrum needs reduction; furthermore, you might be unaware of the very visible scars associated.

Thank you for your question — and for clearly expressing your aesthetic priorities. You're absolutely not alone: many patients seek increased tooth show and shortened philtrum length while preserving the natural shape and volume of the upper lip.
The good news is: yes, there are lip lift techniques that can help meet your goals with minimal change to the upper vermilion.
Here are your best options:
Subnasal Lip Lift (Bullhorn Lift):The most commonly used technique. By removing a small strip of skin under the base of the nose, it shortens the philtrum and rolls out the upper lip slightly, increasing central tooth show. In skilled hands, the effect on vermilion height can be subtle, especially if conservative resection is performed.
Modified Bullhorn or "Deep Plane" Lip Lift:Offers more control over tissue vectors and can reduce tension on the upper lip skin. This is a good choice for minimizing impact on lip shape while enhancing central tooth exposure.
Italian Lip Lift (double incision at the nostril base):A more discreet option in select patients, but less effective in producing noticeable central lift or increased tooth show.
In your case — where upper lip size is satisfactory and only the philtrum/tooth relationship is the concern — a tailored subnasal approach with conservative advancement would likely be ideal. It can improve facial balance by shortening the philtrum and enhancing incisor show, while keeping the vermilion projection nearly unchanged.
A detailed in-person consultation, possibly with digital simulation, can help you visualize subtle outcomes before committing.
I hope this helps clarify your options.
— Güray Yeşiladalı, MD

Thank you for your question and photos. The best way to shorten your philtrum and increase tooth show is with a nasal base lip lift. This procedure will remove excess skin at the base of your nose, shortening your nasal to vermillion length. This has a high patient satisfaction, and the scar is well hidden in the nasal crease.

Short answer, yes. There are different techniques to perform a lip lift to achieve the results you are looking for. I'm sure you've mostly seen the classic "bullhorn" technique which would alter the amount of pink lip shown, which is what you want to avoid. However, there are other techniques that those of us experienced in lip lifts, could discuss with you to achieve your desired outcome.