The space between the nose and upper lip can have a noticeable effect on overall facial proportions. When the philtrum appears elongated, shortening it may help create a more balanced relationship between the midface and upper lip.
At Lush Plastic Surgery, philtrum surgery is approached as an individualized procedure rather than a one-technique solution. Depending on the patient’s anatomy and goals, treatment may include internal philtrum reduction, non-incisional philtrum reduction, external philtrum reduction, or philtral column and Cupid’s bow sculpting. Related procedures such as mouth-corner lifting or columella augmentation may also be considered when appropriate.
What Makes the Approach Individualized?
Lush Plastic Surgery evaluates more than just philtrum length. The consultation also considers:
- Upper-lip shape and show
- Philtral column definition
- Mouth-corner position
- Columella structure
- Overall facial proportions
- The amount of correction desired
This allows the treatment plan to be based on the patient’s specific anatomy rather than applying the same procedure to everyone.
Meet Dr. Min-ah Lee
Dr. Min-ah Lee, a board-certified plastic surgery specialist, is the surgeon behind the philtrum surgery program at Lush Plastic Surgery.
Dr. Lee completed her plastic and reconstructive surgery residency at Korea University Medical Center and received additional clinical training at the University of California, Irvine. Before founding Lush Plastic Surgery, she held director-level positions at several Korean plastic surgery practices.
One of Lush Plastic Surgery’s distinguishing approaches is that Dr. Lee personally handles the consultation, surgical planning, procedure, and postoperative follow-up. This allows the surgeon evaluating the patient’s facial proportions to also perform the planned procedure.
Considering Philtrum Reduction or a Lip Lift?
Understanding whether the concern comes from philtrum length alone—or from several related features—is an important part of treatment planning. Lush Plastic Surgery offers personalized consultations to determine which approach may be appropriate for each patient’s facial structure and goals.