Top lip shorter than lower & philtrum slight too long, what lip lift would you recommend? (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. You are a candidate for a lip lift.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Thank you for your question. Based on your description, it sounds like you are considering a lip lift procedure to address the relative size of your top lip and the length of your philtrum. The goal of a lip lift is to shorten the philtrum and increase the visible height of the upper lip, creating a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing appearance.

There are different types of lip lifts, such as the bullhorn lip lift (subnasal lip lift) and the gullwing lip lift. The bullhorn lip lift is the most commonly performed and involves removing a small strip of skin just beneath the nose, which shortens the philtrum and elevates the upper lip. This procedure can help achieve the results you're looking for without causing functional issues with lip closure.

Regarding your concern about needing to press your lower lip higher to close your lips, this is typically not an issue with a well-executed lip lift. A precise amount of skin is removed to ensure that the lips can still close comfortably and naturally. As for the specific measurements, such as removing 2mm from the philtrum and adding 2mm to the top lip, it is essential to have a thorough consultation with a skilled plastic surgeon. They will evaluate your facial proportions and customize the procedure to achieve the best balance and harmony for your unique features.

It is crucial to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon who has experience with lip lifts to discuss your specific concerns and goals. They can provide personalized recommendations and show you before-and-after photos of similar cases to help you better understand the potential outcomes.