What is the maximum amount of skin that can be removed during a lip lift without complications?

Question

My philtrum is 22 millimeters and I saw two surgeons who both feel uncomfortable removing the amount of skin I want (10-12mm). The first one said 5-6mm maximum and the second one said 8mm maximum. I want my philtrum to be 10-12mm long. any surgeons here who feel comfortable removing large amounts of skin and have had success with it in the past? (i'm in oregon but can travel)

Philip Solomon, MD, FRCS · Answer

Thanks for sending this question.  While you may be interested in the amount of skin that can be removed its most important to ensure that the result is natural.   This procedure is irreversible and its safer to take less than more as secondary lip lift procedure can be done if not enough of a result is achieved.   The other limiting variable is gum show.  You do not want to remove excess skin and create a gummy smile.

Paul Jason Skoll, MBChB, FRCS, FCS(SA)Plast · Answer

I think a 10-12mm philtrum would be short. I would aim for a length of closer to  14 mmm so around 7.5-8mm reduction at the most. Any more would make it difficult to inset in my experience. Always better to remove too little than too much - you cant replace what has been removed, but can always remove a bit more after a period of healing.

Barry L. Eppley, MD, DMD · Answer

As a general rule the safe amount of skin removal for an aggressive subnasal lip lift is up to 1/3 of the vertical philtral length. In your case that would be 7.5mms. While 10mms can be done it is important to remember that this is an irreversible operation.

Jeffrey Jumaily, MD · Answer

We have done many many lip lifts with various amounts of skin removed. The measurements are important but obtaining a natural feminine upper lip with the right amount of tooth show is the most important. We removed 10mm (what you are asking about) before and it looked good. Every face is different and every lip is different so photos or skype consultation is needed to make strong recommendations. Best wishes.

What is the maximum amount of skin that can be removed during a lip lift without complications?

Answers (4)

More Lip Lift Questions

I’d like my upper teeth to be more exposed when I speak. Is an upper lip lift the proper procedure? (Photo)

Considering a lip lift for upper teeth show and better smile?

Bullhorn liplift or mouth corner lift with moles? (Photos)

I want to remove my cupids bow?! Can this be done via a lip lift? (photos)

Corner Lip Lift- Possible the scars can completely go away? Or is it certain there will always be a scar if you look for it?

Still itchy five weeks after upper lip lift. What should I do to reduce the tightness?

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS