What procedures are available to lengthen the philtrum?

Question

Perhaps odd, but I've always noticed that my mouth looks too close to my nose and is positioned a bit higher than usual. Out of curiosity, are there procedures to lengthen the philtrum and increase the space between the nose and mouth for a more harmonious look? To my knowledge, the only viable thing would be a columella reduction.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

There are few ways to lengthen the philtrum if needed. In person consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon with experience in cleft lip surgery is recommended. Good luck.

Tanveer Janjua, MD · Answer

The easiest thing is to do open up the nasolabial angle using a cartilage graft. You can also lift the nasal tip and it increases the visible length of the philtrum. Chemodenervation in the nasolabial angle can help  temporarily.
However in terms of actual lengthening skin flaps and grafts can be used but the aesthetic results are not great. 
Regards
Dr. Janjua

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. Pictures of your nose would be helpful here. There are many possible ways to do this including support and slight elevation of the nasal tip. Make sure you are going to a surgeon with hundreds of long-term before and after pictures on their website with standardized lighting and standardized backgrounds. I recommend that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified rhinoplasty surgeon who can evaluate you in person.

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D. FACS
Harvard-trained board certified plastic surgeon

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D. FACS
Harvard-trained board certified plastic surgeon

What procedures are available to lengthen the philtrum?

Answers (3)

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