Is it possible to INCREASE the philtrum length? (Photo)

Question

My philtrum is VERY short for my face and messes with my facial harmony. is it possible to lengthen the philtrum?

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

Lengthening is much harder than shortening. The philtrum is skin and muscle bounded by the nose and the red lip, so the options are limited to either adding bulk or releasing and redistributing tissue, and both have honest trade-offs. Filler placed in the philtral columns and just above the lip can make it appear longer and fuller, though it is temporary. Fat grafting is longer lasting for some people but less predictable in this thin area. Surgical lengthening, such as a lower lip or Cupid's bow approach, is uncommon and carries a visible scar risk. In person I would also look at the nose, teeth and chin, since proportion often matters more than the single measurement. Please see a board-certified facial plastic surgeon who works on lips.

Mark Beaty, MD · Answer

Before considering any surgical approach to lengthen the philtrum, it may be beneficial to first address the appearance of your current lip filler. From the photos, it appears there may be some filler migration beyond the natural lip border, which can affect the overall balance and proportions of the area.

Once any migrated filler has been dissolved and the lips have returned to their natural state, your facial proportions can be reassessed. Based on your current concerns, I would not recommend a surgical intervention at this time.

Lexie Wang, MD · Answer

It is hard to tell in this pic because you are WAY WAY WAY overfilled with a lot of migration. I think that is skewing where you think the red lip begins and where the philtrum ends. Anatomically, it looks like your philtrum height is actually proportional to the rest of the face but because your lips have been filled so much, it makes the philtrum itself appear even smaller.

Is it possible to INCREASE the philtrum length? (Photo)

Answers (3)

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