Does V to Y Lip Procedure really shorten the philtrum length?

Question

My main concern with my lips is the larger than average length of the philtrum. I’ve had lip injections for a few years now but I believe that it makes the length of the philtrum look worse. Does the V to Y lip procedure really shorten the philtrum length? Even if it’s not by that much or not that dramatic of an effect, I’d still definitely be interested and I’m wondering if there’s any in the Detroit area

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

If you have a long distance between the nose and upper lip then a lip lift would be the preferred procedure. 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.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Ruslan Zhuravsky, DO · Answer

Hello, A V to Y technique is for lengthening. If you cut a V and stretch the tissues, then close them, you get a Y shape. A long philthrum is treated with a lip lift. A subnasal lip lip done with good design, elevation, and deep suspension can make significant improvements in the aesthetics of the lower face. It enhances proportions of the face while also creating a nice lip. However, a consultation is absolutely necessary as there are limiting factors and not everyone is a candidate. I agree that fillers on a long philtrum are not ideal as it makes the lip look heavy. I see these fairly often as fillers have become very popular and these things are not always noted. Make sure you find someone that does a high quality lip lift with good deep suspension. Read about the procedure and learn, then have the surgeon explain it to you during consultation. The procedure is approximately 1 hour, but there are some very key nuances and techniques that must be done in order to have a good result. Good luck!

Jacob Tower, MD · Answer

Hello, hope you are well. A V-Y procedure is performed on the inner, mucosal aspect of the lip. It can change the proportion of vermilion (pink) lip that is showing, but strictly speaking it does not reduce the length of the philtrum. Overall, the V-Y lip augmentation does more to increase vermilion "pout" and fullness. The only way to reduce the length of the philtrum in the literal sense is to remove a portion of it with a lip lift. Usually the incision and scar are concealed in the subnasal crease. 
Best,Dr. Tower

Does V to Y Lip Procedure really shorten the philtrum length?

Answers (3)

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