Table of contents

• Philtrum Reduction Surgery: The Procedure Explained
• Best Clinics in Korea for Philtrum Elongation
• The Journey to Philtrum Reduction in South Korea: Step-by-Step
• Cost Considerations: South Korea vs. Other Countries
• Alternative: Non-Surgical Philtrum Refinement Options in Korea
• Patient Experiences and Outcomes: What to Expect
• Conclusion
• References

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The philtrum is the vertical groove in the center of your upper lip, running from the base of the nose to the top of the lip. In humans, this infranasal depression is largely vestigial, unlike in other mammals where it's involved in carrying scent molecules.

Philtrum elongation is when the distance between the base of the nose and the upper lip border is more than two standard deviations above the average, or appears noticeably longer than typical. For women, the ideal philtrum length ranges from 11-13 millimeters, while men usually have a slightly longer measurement. At these proportions, the upper teeth should be faintly visible when the lips are relaxed. Still, these guidelines are flexible—the key to good aesthetics is facial harmony, not strict measurements. Many factors, like nose length and individual features, play a part, so the best assessment is always customized to each person.

Alternate Terms and Related Conditions

It's common to hear philtrum elongation described as "long philtrum," "abnormality of the philtrum," or "long upper lip distance to nose." While it's often a cosmetic concern, a long philtrum can also be a feature of certain genetic syndromes such as Aarskog-Scott syndrome, KBG syndrome, Fryns syndrome, and EZH2-related overgrowth. For example, Aarskog-Scott syndrome includes various distinctive facial features, including a long philtrum. Recognizing that philtrum elongation might signal a broader syndrome is crucial—consulting a healthcare professional for a full evaluation is important before considering cosmetic treatment. In other cases, a long philtrum may simply be hereditary or develop as part of the normal aging process.

Aesthetic Impact of Philtrum Length

Philtrum length notably affects facial aesthetics. A long philtrum can make a face look older or less lively, partially due to reduced visibility of the upper teeth when smiling. It might also make the upper lip appear thin or flat, disrupting the harmony of facial proportions. The central location of the philtrum means that even subtle changes influence overall facial balance. Therefore, correcting philtrum length isn't just about shorter measurements, but about restoring a youthful, proportionate, and engaging appearance.

Philtrum Reduction Surgery: The Procedure Explained

What is Philtrum Reduction Surgery (Lip Lift)?

Philtrum reduction surgery, often called an "upper lip lift" or "subnasal lip lift," is a cosmetic surgery that shortens the distance between the nose and the upper lip. This well-established procedure aims to enhance facial balance, creating a more youthful and attractive look.

Benefits and Goals of the Procedure

Philtrum reduction surgery offers several advantages:

• Enhanced Youthfulness: By shortening the philtrum and exposing more of the upper lip, the face regains a rejuvenated look.
• Balanced Features: The surgery helps bring harmony between the upper lip and the rest of the face, often refining the nasolabial angle and subtly improving the nose's appearance.
• Improved Smile: More upper teeth show when smiling, making expressions warmer and more inviting.
• Fuller Lips: The procedure lifts the pink part of the lip, creating a fuller, more defined shape without the need for fillers.
• Lasting Results: Unlike injectables, surgery offers a permanent improvement.
• Boosted Confidence: Many patients report feeling more attractive and satisfied with their appearance.

The procedure is popular because it creates a comprehensive aesthetic improvement—and its permanence makes it a compelling choice for long-term rejuvenation.

Overview of Surgical Techniques

Philtrum reduction surgery is tailored to each person's anatomy. The most common technique is the Bullhorn Lip Lift (Subnasal Lip Lift), where a bullhorn-shaped incision is made under the nose. A strip of skin and tissue is removed, the skin is lifted, and the incision is closed, resulting in a shortened philtrum. The scar is well-hidden along natural nasal creases.

Other techniques include:

• Corner Lip Lift: Lifts downturned mouth corners by removing small triangles of skin, improving a frowning appearance.
• Italian Lip Lift: Uses two small incisions under each nostril for subtle, symmetrical lifting (less effect on the Cupid’s bow).
• Direct Lip Lift (Gullwing Lip Lift): Involves an incision along the lip border for more dramatic results but with more visible scarring.
• Endonasal Lip Lift: Moves part of the incision inside the nose to further hide the scar, although this carries a risk of nasal shape distortion.
• Extended Perialar Lip Lift: Extends the incision around the nostril, lifting the upper lip broadly and reducing nasolabial folds, but with more scarring and downtime.

These options underline the importance of working closely with an experienced surgeon to choose the best approach for your goals.

Best Clinics in Korea for Philtrum Elongation

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for philtrum elongation:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
Haru Clinic	Located in Sinsa, Seoul, Haru Clinic offers personalized aesthetic care with both minimally invasive and surgical options for patients seeking to refine philtrum proportions. Haru’s signature philtrum approach combines thread lifting with subtle lip‑corner fillers to elevate the philtrum without visible scars or downtime, enhancing facial balance for a naturally youthful, refreshed look. Patients can achieve transformative, effective, and long‑lasting results comparable to invasive procedures while enjoying minimal recovery time. Haru’s treatments are led by Dr. Jeong, an official research physician at Merz, the company behind Belotero Filler, who teaches other doctors the latest filler techniques. Known for meticulous facial design, he tailors plans to each individual, prioritizing harmony and balance through non‑invasive methods to ensure results that look refined and authentically natural.	Thread lifting with subtle lip‑corner fillers to elevate the philtrum; no visible scars or downtime.
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery	Choosing the right clinic for philtrum elongation means entrusting your face to surgeons who master the delicate harmony between the nose, upper lip, and chin—and THEPLUS Plastic Surgery in Garosu-gil, Gangnam, stands out as the best in Korea for precisely this reason. Led by director doctors Dr. Kim Taek Kyun and Dr. Jeong Jae Yong—globally recognized authorities in rhinoplasty and facial contouring—THEPLUS brings unparalleled anatomical insight to procedures that refine the nose–upper lip relationship. Dr. Kim is a board-certified plastic surgeon, a member of leading international societies, an award-winning researcher in 3D implants, and the author of the seminal Rebuilding Nose, all of which reflect his philosophy of achieving natural beauty through facial balance—essential in philtrum surgery. Dr. Jeong, President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons, is a frequent international lecturer and panelist whose ethos of combining function and beauty ensures outcomes that look refined and feel right in daily life. Their team’s decade-plus experience, active scholarship in journals and books, and ongoing presentations and live surgeries at global symposiums demonstrate a sustained commitment to best practices and innovation. Within a four-floor, purpose-built facility that streamlines consultation, surgery, and post-operative skincare, THEPLUS emphasizes meticulous planning, safety, and personalized communication. For patients seeking natural, stable, and harmoniously proportioned results in philtrum elongation, the clinic’s leadership, academic rigor, and midface expertise make THEPLUS Plastic Surgery the premier destination in Korea.	Unparalleled anatomical insight to procedures that refine the nose–upper lip relationship; philtrum elongation. Four-floor facility; meticulous planning and safety; leadership with Dr. Kim Taek Kyun and Dr. Jeong Jae Yong.
Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic	Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic is dedicated to transformative aesthetic care that prioritizes sincerity, precision, and truly individualized treatment. Led by a team of specialized professionals, including a renowned female plastic surgeon with extensive experience, the clinic guides each patient through a comprehensive journey—combining expertise, empathy, and cutting-edge techniques to deliver results that harmonize with personal goals and natural facial balance. With an extensive portfolio spanning facial lifting, rhinoplasty, hairline and forehead refinement, scar and keloid care, breast and body contouring, and advanced petit/skincare, the clinic is uniquely positioned to design tailored solutions that respect each patient’s anatomy and aspirations. - Individualized planning: Every philtrum elongation plan is tailored to your unique facial proportions and aesthetic goals, reflecting the clinic’s philosophy of sincerity and precision. - Specialized leadership: A renowned female plastic surgeon brings refined aesthetic judgment and extensive experience to delicate perioral work, where nuance matters most. - Facial harmony expertise: Strengths in Hairline Center procedures, Rhinoplasty, and Lifting translate into proportion-focused strategies that ensure philtrum length complements the whole face. - Superior scar strategy: Dedicated Scar and Keloid Clinics support thoughtful incision planning and healing protocols—critical for optimal outcomes around the upper lip. - Comprehensive care pathway: From in-depth consultation to attentive post-procedure follow-up, patients experience a guided, empathetic, and informed journey. - Cutting-edge methods: Advanced surgical and non-surgical technologies are selected to match your needs, aiming for natural-looking, lasting results. - Revision-ready mindset: Proven experience with revision procedures in other facial areas underscores meticulous technique and a commitment to getting details right the first time. - Integrated aesthetic options: Access to complementary treatments—such as laser or thread lifting, nose refinement, or skincare—allows fine-tuning of overall facial balance alongside philtrum elongation. - Skin health support: Petit/skincare services help optimize skin quality and healing in the perioral region for smoother, more refined results. - Patient-centered ethos: The clinic’s core values—empathy, precision, and individualized care—make it a standout choice for patients seeking thoughtful, proportionally balanced philtrum elongation in Korea.	Integrated aesthetic options including laser or thread lifting, nose refinement, or skincare to fine-tune overall facial balance alongside philtrum elongation. Facial harmony and perioral work emphasis.

Haru Clinic

Located in Sinsa, Seoul, Haru Clinic offers personalized aesthetic care with both minimally invasive and surgical options for patients seeking to refine philtrum proportions. Unlike clinics that rely solely on surgery, Haru’s signature philtrum approach combines thread lifting with subtle lip‑corner fillers to elevate the philtrum without visible scars or downtime, enhancing facial balance for a naturally youthful, refreshed look. Patients can achieve transformative, effective, and long‑lasting results comparable to invasive procedures while enjoying minimal recovery time.

Haru’s treatments are led by Dr. Jeong, an official research physician at Merz, the company behind Belotero Filler, who teaches other doctors the latest filler techniques. Known for meticulous facial design, he tailors plans to each individual, prioritizing harmony and balance through non‑invasive methods to ensure results that look refined and authentically natural.

You can check out their website here: Haru Clinic Website

THEPLUS Plastic Surgery

Choosing the right clinic for philtrum elongation means entrusting your face to surgeons who master the delicate harmony between the nose, upper lip, and chin—and THEPLUS Plastic Surgery in Garosu-gil, Gangnam, stands out as the best in Korea for precisely this reason. Led by director doctors Dr. Kim Taek Kyun and Dr. Jeong Jae Yong—globally recognized authorities in rhinoplasty and facial contouring—THEPLUS brings unparalleled anatomical insight to procedures that refine the nose–upper lip relationship. Dr. Kim is a board-certified plastic surgeon, a member of leading international societies, an award-winning researcher in 3D implants, and the author of the seminal Rebuilding Nose, all of which reflect his philosophy of achieving natural beauty through facial balance—essential in philtrum surgery. Dr. Jeong, President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons, is a frequent international lecturer and panelist whose ethos of combining function and beauty ensures outcomes that look refined and feel right in daily life. Their team’s decade-plus experience, active scholarship in journals and books, and ongoing presentations and live surgeries at global symposiums demonstrate a sustained commitment to best practices and innovation. Within a four-floor, purpose-built facility that streamlines consultation, surgery, and post-operative skincare, THEPLUS emphasizes meticulous planning, safety, and personalized communication. For patients seeking natural, stable, and harmoniously proportioned results in philtrum elongation, the clinic’s leadership, academic rigor, and midface expertise make THEPLUS Plastic Surgery the premier destination in Korea.

You can check out their website here: THEPLUS Plastic Surgery Website

Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic

Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic is dedicated to transformative aesthetic care that prioritizes sincerity, precision, and truly individualized treatment. Led by a team of specialized professionals, including a renowned female plastic surgeon with extensive experience, the clinic guides each patient through a comprehensive journey—combining expertise, empathy, and cutting-edge techniques to deliver results that harmonize with personal goals and natural facial balance. With an extensive portfolio spanning facial lifting, rhinoplasty, hairline and forehead refinement, scar and keloid care, breast and body contouring, and advanced petit/skincare, the clinic is uniquely positioned to design tailored solutions that respect each patient’s anatomy and aspirations.

• Individualized planning: Every philtrum elongation plan is tailored to your unique facial proportions and aesthetic goals, reflecting the clinic’s philosophy of sincerity and precision.
• Specialized leadership: A renowned female plastic surgeon brings refined aesthetic judgment and extensive experience to delicate perioral work, where nuance matters most.
• Facial harmony expertise: Strengths in Hairline Center procedures, Rhinoplasty, and Lifting translate into proportion-focused strategies that ensure philtrum length complements the whole face.
• Superior scar strategy: Dedicated Scar and Keloid Clinics support thoughtful incision planning and healing protocols—critical for optimal outcomes around the upper lip.
• Comprehensive care pathway: From in-depth consultation to attentive post-procedure follow-up, patients experience a guided, empathetic, and informed journey.
• Cutting-edge methods: Advanced surgical and non-surgical technologies are selected to match your needs, aiming for natural-looking, lasting results.
• Revision-ready mindset: Proven experience with revision procedures in other facial areas underscores meticulous technique and a commitment to getting details right the first time.
• Integrated aesthetic options: Access to complementary treatments—such as laser or thread lifting, nose refinement, or skincare—allows fine-tuning of overall facial balance alongside philtrum elongation.
• Skin health support: Petit/skincare services help optimize skin quality and healing in the perioral region for smoother, more refined results.
• Patient-centered ethos: The clinic’s core values—empathy, precision, and individualized care—make it a standout choice for patients seeking thoughtful, proportionally balanced philtrum elongation in Korea.

Find more about this clinic here: Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic Website

The Journey to Philtrum Reduction in South Korea: Step-by-Step

South Korea is a top destination for cosmetic procedures, offering advanced medical care and attractive prices.

Pre-Procedure Preparation

The process starts with one or more detailed consultations, often with free services and translation support for international visitors. The surgeon evaluates your anatomy and clarifies your goals. You’ll be advised to avoid food, drink, and certain medications ahead of surgery, and ensure previous lip fillers (if any) are dissolved for accurate planning. A pre-op shower and some medical tests may be needed.

Day of Surgery

On surgery day, final markings are made and questions addressed. The procedure usually uses local anesthesia with sedation; general anesthesia is sometimes used for combined surgeries. Your hands and feet may be secured, and an IV set for medication.

During the surgery, a precise incision is made (commonly under the nose). The surgeon removes the necessary tissue, sometimes adjusts muscle for better contour, and carefully closes the incision to promote minimal scarring. Most surgeries last about an hour.

Post-Operative Recovery in Korea

A special bandage protects the area post-surgery. You might experience some chills, discomfort, mild headaches, or facial swelling—these are normal and managed with medication. Stitches are removed around 7 days post-operation, and you’ll need to avoid strenuous activity and follow aftercare protocols. Swelling and bruising typically subside in two weeks; complete healing and scar fading may take up to one year. Most medical tourists plan to stay in Korea for a week after surgery to attend follow-ups and ensure proper healing.

Cost Considerations: South Korea vs. Other Countries

South Korea’s blend of expertise, technology, and affordability makes it a favorite for cosmetic surgery.

Typical Costs in South Korea

Philtrum reduction surgery in South Korea typically costs between $1,500 and $2,500 USD, while an upper lip lift is about $2,000 USD. This equates to roughly 2,180,000 to 3,640,000 KRW. Clinics usually require a 10% deposit to reserve your surgery date.

What Can Affect Cost?

Several variables influence the total:

• Clinic Reputation and Surgeon Experience: Higher fees reflect proven expertise.
• Surgical Technique: More complex or customized techniques may cost more.
• Procedure Complexity/Combo Surgeries: Additional procedures raise total costs.

Focusing on surgeon quality rather than just price helps ensure a safer and better outcome.

What’s Included in the Price

South Korea's transparent pricing often covers:

• Consultations: Usually free or included.
• Surgical Fees: Covers the procedure itself.
• Post-Operative Care: Visit and stitch removal follow-ups included for the first week.
• Hospital Stay: Not typically required, unless needed for combined surgeries.
• Taxes/Hidden Fees: Minimal; Korean clinics are known for clear billing.

Global Cost Comparison

Here's a snapshot of lip lift/philtrum reduction surgery costs worldwide:

Country	Procedure	Cost Range (USD)	Notes/Considerations
South Korea	Lip Lift (Philtrum Reduction)	$1,500 - $2,500	Includes consultations/follow-up; transparent pricing
United States	Lip Lift	$5,000 - $10,000	Excludes some fees; not usually insured
Turkey	Lip Lift	$1,500 - $3,250	All-inclusive; check provider's credentials
Thailand	Lip Lift	$1,479 - $3,551	Often bundled procedures; verify clinic standards
Australia	Lip Lift	$2,100 - $7,000	Price varies by extras/fees

Factor in your travel, accommodation, and living costs when budgeting for a trip to Korea. Some clinics offer all-inclusive packages to help make arrangements easier.

Alternative: Non-Surgical Philtrum Refinement Options in Korea

For patients seeking a non-invasive and non-permanent solution, Korea offers advanced procedures that replicate many of the aesthetic effects of surgical philtrum reduction. One popular option is the Philtrum Thread Lift, which subtly shortens and lifts the philtrum using fine absorbable threads. This technique enhances the nasolabial angle, increases upper-lip visibility, and improves facial balance without incisions or downtime. For individuals whose philtrum looks long due to inward-rolled lips or insufficient lower-face projection, this method provides noticeable refinement with natural movement preserved.

Korean clinics often combine the thread lift with lip corner filler, adding gentle volume to the lateral upper lip to create a brighter, more youthful expression. This synergy helps replicate the effects of V Line–style facial contouring—enhancing proportions and reducing flatness—without surgery. Results are immediate, last several months, and can be repeated or adjusted over time, making these alternatives ideal for patients who want flexibility or prefer to avoid permanent changes.

Patient Experiences and Outcomes: What to Expect

Satisfaction and Aesthetic Improvements

Philtrum reduction surgery (lip lift) generally receives high praise from patients—over 91% of reviewers on RealSelf rate it as "Worth It." Most patients are pleased with the resulting youthfulness, lip fullness, and enhanced smile. This surgery often greatly boosts self-confidence.

Durability and Aging

The changes from philtrum reduction surgery are designed to last. However, natural aging continues, and the upper lip may eventually sag slightly again. Some patients choose to have a minor touch-up years down the line, but the original results are considered permanent.

Recovery Experience

After surgery, you'll notice immediate improvement, though expect swelling, bruising, and some discomfort—typically manageable with painkillers. Most visible swelling resolves in two weeks; minor stiffness can linger much longer. This is all a normal part of recovery, with final results revealed as healing completes over 6-12 months.

Potential Risks and Complications

As with any surgery, philtrum reduction carries risks:

• Scarring: Usually minimal and concealed, though in rare cases can be more visible.
• Asymmetry: Minor unevenness can happen.
• Impaired Mouth Movement: If too much tissue is removed, closing the lips can become difficult—a rare but serious risk.
• Nasal Distortion: Incorrect technique may change nose shape, especially with certain incisions.
• Under-correction: Might need revision if not enough tissue is removed.

Most complications are avoided by choosing an experienced, skilled surgeon.

Choosing a Surgeon and Setting Expectations

Picking the right surgeon is the most important choice you'll make. Find a board-certified facial plastic surgeon with a track record specifically in lip lifts. Avoid scheduling with clinics where you don't meet the surgeon until the day of surgery. Take time to learn about the procedure, ask questions, and set realistic expectations for your recovery and results.

Conclusion

Philtrum elongation, or long upper lip distance to nose, can noticeably affect facial aesthetics and perceived youthfulness. Philtrum reduction surgery (lip lift or subnasal lip lift) offers a safe, permanent solution that revitalizes appearance and confidence when performed by a skilled surgeon. South Korea is a top destination for this procedure due to its blend of expertise, advanced care, and transparent pricing. By thoroughly researching providers, prioritizing surgeon skill, and understanding the process, patients can achieve satisfying results and a refreshed look.

References

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