Table of contents

• Philtrum Reduction Overview
• Best Clinics in Korea for Philtrum Reduction
• Philtrum Reduction in Korea
• Alternatives to Philtrum Reduction
• Conclusion

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Is the length of your philtrum affecting your facial harmony, altering your expressions, or making you appear older than you feel? In Korea, the burgeoning trend of philtrum reduction offers a refined approach to achieving a balanced, youthful look by shortening the space between the nose and the upper lip—a procedure that is not only popular among locals but also attracts people from around the globe seeking top-notch cosmetic enhancements.

Philtrum Reduction Overview

Philtrum reduction is a cosmetic procedure aimed at shortening the philtrum, the vertical groove between the upper lip and the base of the nose, to create a more aesthetically pleasing facial balance. This area of the face is pivotal in determining the overall harmony and proportion of the facial features. An elongated philtrum can make the face appear aged or the facial expressions less vibrant. By adjusting its length, surgeons can offer a more youthful and refreshed appearance.

• Correction of Nasolabial Angle: Establishes the ideal angle between the nose and philtrum, which is 95°~100° for women and 90°~95° for men. This correction not only enhances facial harmony but can also result in lifting the tip of the nose bridge, refining the facial profile.
• Correction of Lip Volume: Especially beneficial for individuals with a thin or flat upper lip that contributes to the appearance of a longer philtrum. The lifting and suturing during the procedure contribute to increased volume and a more aesthetically pleasing lip shape.
• Correction of Wide Nose Alar: Through minimal incision techniques, the surgery narrows the alar (the outer sides of the nostrils), which can create a more refined nasal appearance. Specialized techniques like hidden incision ensure a more natural-looking correction of wide nasal alars.

1. Philtrum Reduction Procedure

The procedure typically involves making an incision under the nose where the philtrum begins. The surgeon then removes a small piece of skin and tissue, effectively shortening the philtrum. The surgical approach may vary depending on the patient's specific anatomy and the desired outcome. Advanced techniques ensure minimal scarring, with most incisions hiding under the nose's natural contours. The procedure can be performed under local anesthesia and usually takes about an hour.

• Surgery Time: Approximately 1 hour.
• Anesthesia: Performed under Local Anesthesia.
• Hospitalization: Overnight stay at the hospital is not required.
• Removal of Stitches: Stitches are typically removed about 7 days after the surgery.
• Recovery Time: Patients can expect to return to their usual activities within 1 week.

2. Who Is Philtrum Reduction For?

• Individuals with a pronounced philtrum that disrupts the facial balance.
• Those looking to achieve a more youthful appearance.
• People desiring improved facial harmony and proportion.
• Candidates with realistic expectations and a clear understanding of the procedure's scope.

3. Philtrum Reduction Aftercare

After philtrum reduction, patients are advised to follow a precise aftercare regimen to ensure optimal healing and minimize complications. This includes avoiding strenuous activities, adhering to a soft diet to reduce movement in the surgery area, and maintaining oral hygiene to prevent infections. The surgical area should be kept clean, and if prescribed, antibiotic ointments applied to facilitate healing. Swelling and bruising are common but should subside within a few weeks.

• Duration of Stay in Korea: Patients are advised to stay in Korea for 7 days post-surgery to accommodate any immediate post-operative care and follow-up.
• Returning to Routine or Work: Patients can generally resume their routine activities or return to work immediately after the procedure, depending on personal comfort and the nature of their work.
• Follow-Up Appointments:
  • The first follow-up is scheduled after 7 days for a post-operative check, which typically includes the removal of stitches and bandages.

4. Philtrum Reduction Recovery Period

Recovery times can vary, but most patients can return to their normal activities within a week, with some precautions. Swelling and discomfort may last a few days, with complete healing taking place over a month. Regular follow-up visits are crucial to monitor the healing process and address any concerns. It's important for patients to strictly follow their surgeon's advice during the recovery period to ensure the best possible outcome.

• Full Recovery Time: Complete recovery, including the subsidence of swelling and the full emergence of the final results, generally takes about 2 months.

Post-Operative Recovery Phases:

• The Day of Surgery: After the philtrum reduction surgery, patients can immediately start returning to their routine activities with caution.
• After 3 Days: Gradual reduction in initial swelling and discomfort. Patients are encouraged to follow the surgeon’s aftercare instructions diligently.
• After 7 Days: Removal of stitches and bandages during the follow-up visit. This marks a significant step in the healing process.
• After 1 Month to 2 Months: During this period, patients will notice considerable healing and can observe the near-final outcome of the procedure. It's essential to maintain follow-up visits if possible, to ensure proper healing and address any concerns.

Best Clinics in Korea for Philtrum Reduction

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

Haru Clinic

Haru Clinic in Sinsa, Seoul offers a refined, minimally invasive approach to philtrum reduction that avoids the visible scarring associated with traditional surgery. By combining precise thread lifting with subtle lip-corner fillers, the clinic elevates the philtrum without incisions, scars, or downtime, enhancing facial balance and creating a naturally youthful, refreshed expression. This personalized method fits within Haru’s broader expertise in both minimally invasive and surgical aesthetics, allowing patients to choose the most appropriate path for their goals.

Led by Dr. Jeong—an official research physician at Merz, the company behind Belotero Filler, and an educator of advanced filler techniques—Haru Clinic emphasizes meticulous facial design tailored to each individual. Dr. Jeong focuses on harmony and proportion through non-invasive strategies that can deliver results comparable to invasive surgery, offering effective, long-lasting outcomes with minimal recovery time.

You can check out their website here: Haru Clinic Website

THEPLUS Plastic Surgery

THEPLUS Plastic Surgery, located in Garosu-gil, Gangnam, is a four-floor, full-service center that brings together world-class surgical expertise, academic leadership, and meticulous aftercare under one roof. Led by director surgeons Dr. Jeong Jae Yong and Dr. Kim Taek Kyun—internationally recognized authorities in rhinoplasty and facial contouring—the clinic is built on a philosophy of achieving natural, harmonious facial balance through precise, evidence-based care. Dr. Kim, a board-certified plastic surgeon and award-winning researcher in 3D implant technologies, is renowned for his work in rhinoplasty and facial bone surgery and for running annual educational programs for fellow surgeons. Dr. Jeong, President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons, is a globally active educator and panelist whose practice unites function with beauty. Supported by a team with over a decade of experience and active memberships in leading societies such as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, THEPLUS surgeons publish, present, and perform live surgeries worldwide—demonstrating a sustained commitment to safety, innovation, and results from consultation to post-operative skincare.

Why THEPLUS Plastic Surgery stands out for philtrum reduction

• Harmony-first philosophy: The clinic’s core focus on facial balance ensures philtrum reduction is designed to complement the nose, lips, and midface for natural, proportionate results.
• Rhinoplasty and facial contouring expertise: Deep experience with nasal base, tip, and alar design allows precise coordination between the nose–lip complex and philtrum shortening for a refined, integrated outcome.
• Academic leadership at the helm: Dr. Jeong’s leadership of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons and Dr. Kim’s award-winning 3D research and authorship (including the reference work “Rebuilding Nose”) reflect rigor that translates to meticulous planning and execution.
• Evidence-based, customized planning: Surgeons who lecture and publish internationally bring advanced techniques and analysis—ideal for tailoring incision design, lip-tooth show, and nasolabial angles to each face.
• Continuity of care in one facility: A purpose-built, four-floor system supports every step—from consultations and surgery to post-operative skincare—to optimize healing and scar quality.
• Proven track record with complex facial cases: Esteemed for primary and revision rhinoplasty, the team’s experience with intricate facial anatomy is well-suited to nuanced philtrum work requiring precision and stability.
• Safety and professional credibility: Board-certified surgeons with active roles in domestic and international societies underscore a culture of safety, accountability, and peer-validated excellence.

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

Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic

At Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic, patients considering philtrum reduction are guided by a philosophy that goes beyond simple procedures to deliver thoughtful, individualized care. Led by specialized professionals, including a renowned female plastic surgeon with extensive experience, the clinic emphasizes sincerity, precision, and tailored planning grounded in cutting-edge techniques. Each treatment is designed around the patient’s unique facial proportions and goals, with a focus on natural-looking balance and a compassionate, expert-led journey from consultation to follow-up.

The clinic’s comprehensive capabilities support safe, harmonized facial refinement: advanced lifting procedures (face lift, mini lift, endoscopic forehead lift, thread and laser lifting), rhinoplasty (tip, bridge, nostril, and revision), eye plastic surgery (double eyelid correction, under-eye and age-tailored solutions, and revisions), and hairline and forehead aesthetics (hairline correction, hair transplant, forehead reduction). Complementary services span body contouring (liposuction, fat grafting, contouring treatments, abdominal/arm lifts), breast procedures (augmentation, reduction, lifting, inverted nipple correction, gynecomastia), specialized scar and skin clinics (scar and keloid care, benign tumor removal, stem cell treatments), and petit/skincare (pigmentation, pores/acne/scars, Botox and fillers, medical skincare). This breadth enables philtrum reduction to be integrated into a personalized plan that prioritizes facial harmony, precision, and a seamless patient experience.

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

Philtrum Reduction in Korea

Korea stands out as a leading destination for philtrum reduction due to its cutting-edge techniques, highly skilled surgeons, and a deep cultural understanding of facial aesthetics. Korean clinics offer an unparalleled level of service, with attention to detail that encompasses both the surgical outcome and the patient's overall experience. The benefits of undergoing philtrum reduction in Korea include access to advanced technologies, competitive prices, and surgeons who are highly experienced in facial cosmetic procedures.

Alternatives to Philtrum Reduction

For those considering alternatives to philtrum reduction, there are several non-surgical options:

• Lip fillers: Offering a less permanent solution, lip fillers can adjust lip volume and potentially influence the appearance of the philtrum length.
• Botox injections: Used carefully, Botox can adjust the upper lip's position, affecting how the philtrum appears.
• Laser treatments: Certain laser procedures can stimulate collagen and alter skin texture, which may visually impact the philtrum area, albeit subtly.

Conclusion

Philtrum reduction in Korea stands as a testament to the country's leadership in cosmetic surgery. By offering advanced surgical techniques, a wide array of aesthetic options, and a culture that prioritizes detailed attention to beauty, Korea attracts individuals from all over the world seeking to enhance their features. Whether through renowned clinics like Haru Clinic or exploring cost-effective options, individuals have the opportunity to achieve their desired aesthetic outcomes. As with any cosmetic procedure, thorough research and consultations with qualified surgeons are essential to ensure a safe and satisfactory transformation.