I would like to create the illusion of a shorter philtrum. Lip Lift option - YV lift? Italian? Botox? (Photos)

Question

I have a pretty long Philtrum (about 16mm I think). My lips aren't super thin, but they're a bit pale on the edges so they look smaller I would like to at least have the illusion of a shorter philtrum with a little bit bigger upper lip. Problem is, my teeth show quite a bit already so I don't think I'm a candidate for a traditional lip lift. When I smile, the philtrum length is totally fine and my upper lip is also not too thin. It's mostly at rest that bothers me. I feel I look older and grumpy at rest. Would a YV lift be a good alternative for me? Or should I try a botox lip flip ? I'm not keen on doing filler as my face is longer and I don't want it to look heavy. Also not keen on the swelling and water retention I've seen with filler. Thanks!

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

You would benefit from an eccentric lip, not a bullhorn lip lift. This 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.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

This is not an uncommon problem in my experience. I have personally found that the use of microdroplets of Botox placed at intervals just above the vermilion border of the upper lip accompanied by the use of a low viscosity, malleable cohesive HA Filler injected along the vermilion border only (not in the lips; so no concern about puffy lips) can help to diminish the appearance of a long philtrum. You would be wise to consult with an experienced, board certified cosmetic dermatologist filler treatment expert. Hope this helps and best luck.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Since you already have good tooth show when smiling and your concern is mainly at rest, I would be cautious with a traditional lip lift. It could increase tooth show more than you want.

A conservative Botox lip flip may be a good starting option. It can slightly roll the upper lip outward, making it appear fuller and giving the illusion of a shorter philtrum without adding filler volume. The effect is subtle and temporary.

A Y-V or modified/Italian lip lift could provide a more permanent change, but surgery should be very conservative because you already like how your lip and philtrum look when smiling.

I also wouldn't focus too heavily on the 16 mm measurement. Overall facial proportions and your existing tooth show are more important than the number itself.

I would like to create the illusion of a shorter philtrum. Lip Lift option - YV lift? Italian? Botox? (Photos)

Answers (3)

More Lip Lift Questions

Endonasal Lip Lift - Is it possible to reverse the changes? (Photos)

Can lip lifts use skin glue instead of stitches?

What surgical options are available for addressing asymetrical lips and one-sided droop? (Photos)

Does a bullhorn lip lift raise lateral edges of lip?

Would a lip lift improve my rounded/convex upper-lip profile? (Photos)

Horizontal crease - will a lip lift help? (Photos)

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS