Will a lip lift exaggerate a gummy smile?

Question

I have a long philtrum along with a long face. Also, when I smile great big like when laughing really hard, I do have some gum show on the side of my mouth, none really up near front teeth. I have been looking at lip lift reviews for over a year now and am wondering if this procedure would be for me. I dont want to have the bunny rabbit look afterward. Really how much does the lip lift procedure change the proportions of a persons large laughing smile?

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

Good day! Lip lift shortens the distance between the nose and the upper lip and will also allow the lip to “roll out”, creating a more pouty look. Therefore, if you undergo a lip lift your gums will show on the center and exaggerate the "gum show" at the sides that you already have. Find a board-certified plastic surgeon that has extensive experience with your case and discuss realistic goals and expectations. Best of luck! #RealSelf100

Frank P. Fechner, MD · Answer

By definition, a lip lift will expose more of your gums in the areas where it was lifted. Important to understand is that you want to have gum show when smiling. Also, it is attractive to show your upper teeth when gently separating your lips. If there is too much gum show on the sides but too little in the middle I would consider lifting the upper lip only in the center. Hereby, the upper lip aesthetics are more balanced. The lip lift is a versatile procedure that needs to be customized for your specific anatomy and desires.

Barry L. Eppley, MD, DMD · Answer

By definition a lip lift will potentially expose a little more upper tooth show and this may exaggerate a gummy smile issue. I wouldn't do a lip lift unless one is also going to treat the gummy smile issue at the same time.

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Will a lip lift exaggerate a gummy smile?

Answers (3)

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