Lower lip projects more than upper lip - how to fix Rickett’s line? (Photo)

Thank you for your thoughtful and detailed question — you’re absolutely on the right track by addressing the skeletal and dental foundation first with orthodontics. Lip projection and balance with Rickett’s line can indeed be influenced by both structural and soft tissue factors.

In the meantime, here are a few strategies that can help improve upper lip projection without creating an unnatural or overly full look:

Strategic Lip Filler Placement:
A small amount of hyaluronic acid filler placed precisely along the vermilion border and philtral columns can help enhance projection without adding excessive volume. The goal here is contouring and alignment, not fullness. A conservative approach will prevent distortion, especially since you already have a short philtrum.

Botox Lip Flip:
This can be a nice adjunct to gently encourage the upper lip to evert and appear slightly more projected. While subtle, it works well for patients who are looking to improve lip posture during speech or at rest without changing volume. It may also help with some mentalis overactivity temporarily.

Thread Lifting or Lip Threading:
This can offer mild elevation and contouring of the lip area. However, in most cases, filler or neuromodulators like Botox provide more predictable results for projection.

Mentalis Botox (Optional):
If mentalis strain is pronounced while sealing your lips, a microdose of Botox in the chin area may help reduce that tension and balance the lower lip’s appearance. This must be done very carefully to avoid interfering with natural movement.

If Orthodontics Alone Aren’t Sufficient:
Once your braces are off and facial growth and bite are more stable, you can reassess the need for further interventions. A lip lift may be considered, but given your short philtrum, this would need to be approached very conservatively. Lip repositioning surgery is another possible option, but it is typically reserved for cases where functional or aesthetic concerns persist after dental correction.

Ultimately, a customized approach—often combining minor filler with conservative Botox—is ideal in your case. I’d be happy to help assess your facial balance and design a plan tailored to your proportions and goals.

You can consider adding a little filler to the upper lip to increase the volume. Naturally the bottom lip is fuller than the upper. HA fillers are a good option for you since you may notice changes as you progress through your orthodontic treatment and lip fillers are temporary. See an expert injector to learn more.

Hello! My name is Jessica, I am a physician assistant, and one of the providers at Aesthetic Skin in Winnetka and Chicago. This is a great question. To enhance your upper lip projection and align it with Rickett’s line while undergoing orthodontic treatment, lip fillers can be a highly effective option. Dermal fillers, specifically hyaluronic acid-based ones, can provide immediate volume and lift to the upper lip, helping to create a more balanced appearance. By strategically injecting filler into the cupid's bow and the body of the upper lip, you can achieve a more pronounced projection that complements your facial structure. This approach can help counterbalance the appearance of the lower lip, particularly during the interim period of your orthodontic treatment. Lip fillers are versatile and can be adjusted based on your desired look, allowing for a natural enhancement that aligns with your aesthetic goals. The results typically last several months, giving you the opportunity to reassess after your orthodontic treatment progresses. I hope this helps and best of luck!