What is philtrum shortening surgery?
The philtrum is the grooved area between the nose and the upper lip. As we age it lengthens slightly and the lip thins, so the upper teeth show less at rest. Some people are simply born with a long philtrum, which can make the lower face look long or the expression look flat.
Philtrum shortening removes a small, measured strip of skin along the base of the nose. The lip is lifted a few millimetres and closed in layers so the scar sits in the crease where the nostrils meet the lip. Patients who want more lip volume rather than a shorter lip are usually better suited to lip augmentation.
Who is a good candidate for an upper lip lift?
- A philtrum that looks long relative to the lower lip and chin.
- Little or no upper tooth show when the lips are relaxed.
- A flat, thin upper lip that fillers have not improved for long.
- A long lower third of the face where a few millimetres would rebalance proportions.
- Non-smokers or those willing to stop around surgery, for better scar healing.
A short philtrum cannot easily be lengthened again, so we plan the amount conservatively and check how much tooth show you want before deciding.
Philtrum shortening vs lip filler vs corner lift
| Philtrum shortening | Lip filler | Lip corner lift | |
| What it changes | Length of the upper lip | Volume of the lip | Downturned corners |
| Tooth show | Increases | Little change | No change |
| Scar | Under the nose | None | At the mouth corners |
| Downtime | About 1 week | 1–2 days | About 1 week |
| Longevity | Long-lasting | 6–12 months | Long-lasting |
How is philtrum shortening performed?
Before & after
Before
After
More cases are in our before & after gallery.
What is recovery like after philtrum shortening?
| Day 1–3 | Swollen, tight upper lip; soft foods and careful brushing. |
|---|---|
| Day 5–7 | Stitches removed. The lip may look slightly over-lifted at first. |
| Week 2–4 | Swelling settles; scar redness can be covered with make-up. |
| Month 3–6 | The lip relaxes into its final position and the scar fades. |
“On the lip, two millimetres is a big decision. I would rather take a little less and keep your expression yours.”
Dr. Lee Yoo-jung · Chief DirectorWhat are the risks of an upper lip lift?
The main concern is the scar: in most people it becomes faint, but some heal with a wider or more visible line, which may need scar care or a small revision. Other risks include asymmetry, temporary numbness and stiffness of the lip, and over-shortening, which is difficult to reverse. Infection is uncommon. If you also plan rhinoplasty, tell Dr. Lee — the order of the operations matters.
Frequently asked questions
Will the scar be visible?
It sits in the shadow under the nose and usually fades to a fine line within several months, but it is not invisible in everyone.
How much can the philtrum be shortened?
Usually a few millimetres, decided by your tooth show and lip proportions rather than a fixed number.
Is the result permanent?
Yes, it is long-lasting, although the lip continues to age naturally.
Can it be combined with lip filler?
Yes, but filler is usually added later, once swelling has settled, if extra volume is still wanted.
How long should I stay in Seoul?
About a week, until the stitches are removed.
Who performs the surgery?
Dr. Lee Yoo-jung performs your consultation, surgery and follow-up herself.