Everything You Need to Know About Philtrum Reduction Surgery (Inner, Outer & Scarless Techniques)
Respect Plastic Surgery, Seoul – Experts in Natural Upper Lip Shortening
How Does a Long Philtrum Affect Facial Aesthetics?
A long philtrum — the space between your nose and upper lip — can significantly influence how old or tired a face looks. Here’s why:
Aging effect: A longer philtrum can create a sagging or fatigued expression.
Disrupted facial proportion: It can throw off the golden ratio of the mid-face.
Less youthful appearance: Shorter philtrums are typically seen in younger, more vibrant faces.
That’s why many patients consider philtrum reduction surgery to restore balance, youthfulness, and facial harmony.
What Is Philtrum Reduction Surgery?
Philtrum reduction, also called upper lip shortening, is a cosmetic surgery that shortens the space between the base of the nose and the top of the upper lip.
There are two main types:
Inner philtrum reduction (central incision under the nose)
Medial philtrum reduction, also known as a subnasal lip lift, involves a precise incision just beneath the columella, at the central area between the nostrils.
This technique shortens the philtrum by removing a portion of tissue under the nose, focusing on the central area without altering the outer contours of the upper lip.
Outer philtrum reduction (incision near the mouth corners)
Lateral philtrum reduction is a specialized surgical procedure designed to refine the outer segments of the philtrum—specifically, the areas flanking the central portion.
While the philtrum typically has a trapezoidal shape, patients with elongated lateral edges may benefit from this approach.
Unlike medial philtrum reduction, which shortens the center beneath the columella, lateral reduction focuses on narrowing the wider outer areas to achieve a more harmonious and proportionate upper lip contour.
Since incisions near the nose are not suitable for lateral philtrum correction, a portion of tissue is carefully removed along the vermilion border—typically near the corners of the mouth.
This technique effectively shortens the outer length of the philtrum and is referred to as lateral philtrum reduction.
Each targets different areas and produces slightly different results.
What Is a Scarless Inner Philtrum Lift?
At Respect Plastic Surgery, our inner philtrum reduction uses a scarless reverse dermal suture technique:
-No stitches on the skin surface
-All sutures are hidden inside
-Natural healing with no visible vertical scar
-Faster recovery and return to daily life
-This approach preserves natural contours like the philtral column and avoids “track mark” scars from traditional stitching.
Is It Truly Scar-Free?
Although the technique is often called “scarless,” a fine incision line will still exist.
However, it fades naturally into the skin’s shadow and texture over time.
Scar visibility depends on individual healing and skin type. The reverse suture method at Respect dramatically reduces visible scarring.
Recovery Timeline (Inner + Outer + Lip Corner Lift)
-Swelling duration: 7–10 days
-Natural appearance: around 2–3 weeks
-Inner philtrum: no stitch removal, glue off on day 5–6
-Outer/lip corners: stitches removed on day 5–7
-Gentle cleansing & makeup: allowed after stitch removal
-Avoid heavy makeup: for 2–3 weeks post-op
Who Performs Philtrum Reduction at Respect?
All philtrum reduction surgeries at Respect Plastic Surgery are performed by Dr. Jung-sik Gong, a board-certified plastic surgeon and the lead doctor behind our signature technique, Injung Nose™.
Dr. Gong holds a design patent for the Injung Nose™ method, which enhances both the philtrum and nasal tip for ideal facial proportions. He is also widely recognized for his expertise in philtrum reduction and breast surgery, known for delivering results that are both natural and harmonious.
As the main doctor for philtrum and nose procedures at Respect, Dr. Gong is trusted by both local and international patients seeking facial refinement.
● Website http://www.respectpseng.com/
● WhatsApp http://wa.me/821020712316
● Instagram: @respect_plastic_surgery
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