Upper teeth don't show when I smile - Is jaw surgery (maxillary osteotomy) the only solution? (Photos)

July 5, 2025
Asked By:Intellectual555032 in Minneapolis, Minnesota

I'm 30 and have long been unhappy with my smile. I had braces, and my teeth are straight. I'm generally happy with them. However whenever I smile (or talk) my teeth are barely visible, especially my top teeth. My lips almost touch when attempting to smile. I have tried researching potential solutions, and keep coming across lip lifts and jaw surgery. My philtrum is only 13 mm, which I've seen is already on the small side. Is jaw surgery (maxillary osteotomy) the only solution? Or do you have other recommendations? I know it can be invasive, and likely requies another round of braces which I'd ideally like to avoid. Thanks in advance for your help!

6 photos

Answers (1)

From board-certified doctors and trusted medical professionals
MOST RECENT
July 9, 2025

Answer: Eccentric lip lift

1 person found this helpful
Gary M. Horndeski, MDBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon
MOST RECENT
July 9, 2025

Answer: Eccentric lip lift

1 person found this helpful
Gary M. Horndeski, MDBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon

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