Do I have a long philtrum if so would a lip lift be beneficial for my side profile? (Photos)

A lip lift does 4 things: shortens the distance between your nose and upper lip, increases the mucosa of the upper lip, increases the incisor show and pulls up the corners. This takes 1 hour to perform under local anesthesia and costs $4,000.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

As it is a bit difficult to make a definitive assessment from the photos provided, I can just comment in more general terms. Before jumping into expensive surgery with its risks and postoperative downtime, you may wish to explore the possibility of a nonsurgical Injection lip lift. A couple of microdroplets of Botox placed properly on each side of the vermilion border of the upper lip can help to create enough of a lift to diminish the apparent length of the philtrum. Additionally, the use of a cohesive, malleable, low viscosity HA filler can be injected along the vermilion border of the upper lip to further establish the lift needed. You would be wise to consult with a board certified cosmetic dermatologist filler expert to explore these possibilities. Hope this helps and best of luck.

Determining whether a philtrum is long and whether a lip lift would be beneficial involves assessing facial proportions and aesthetic goals. Here are some general considerations:

Philtrum Length: Typically, the ideal philtrum length for men is around 13-15mm, but this varies based on individual facial features. If your philtrum is significantly longer, a lip lift might enhance facial balance.

Lip Lift Benefits: A lip lift can shorten the philtrum, increase the visibility of the upper teeth, and create a more youthful appearance. It can also improve the side profile by enhancing the upper lip's projection.

Consultation: A consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon or a facial aesthetic specialist can provide personalized advice. They can assess your facial proportions and discuss the potential outcomes and risks of a lip lift procedure.

Ultimately, the decision should be based on your aesthetic goals and professional guidance to ensure a natural and harmonious result.

Thank you for your thoughtful question—it’s clear you’re paying close attention to your facial proportions, and that’s an important part of making informed aesthetic decisions.
While your philtrum does appear slightly long, the overall imbalance in your side profile seems to stem more from a recessed or underprojected chin than the philtrum itself.
In many cases, enhancing chin projection—whether through filler or a chin implant—provides a more dramatic and balanced improvement than addressing the upper lip area alone.
As for lip lift surgery, it’s important to know that the procedure not only shortens the philtrum but also increases the amount of visible pink lip (vermillion show). While this can create a more defined upper lip, it may also shift the overall look toward a more feminine aesthetic, especially in individuals with softer lower facial features.
If chin support is addressed first, you may find that your concerns about philtrum length become less prominent. A full consultation with a facial plastic surgeon can help assess how these features interact and guide the best approach for your goals.
Wishing you clarity and confidence as you move forward,Op. Dr. Güray YeşiladalıBoard-Certified Plastic Surgeon