Table of contents

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

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:

THEPLUS Plastic Surgery

In Korea’s highly specialized aesthetic landscape, THEPLUS Plastic Surgery stands out as the best destination for philtrum reduction by uniting world-recognized surgical leadership, a harmony-first philosophy, and an end-to-end, safety-focused system in its four-floor Garosu-gil, Gangnam clinic. Board-certified director Dr. Kim Taek Kyun—an award-winning researcher in 3D implants, global society member, and leading authority in rhinoplasty and facial contouring who runs annual educational sessions—prioritizes balanced facial proportions to enhance natural beauty, an approach essential for refining the philtrum’s millimeter-level relationships with the nose, lips, and chin. Complementing this, Dr. Jeong Jae Yong, President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons and an internationally invited rhinoplasty specialist and educator, brings an ethos of combining function and beauty to every case, ensuring results that look harmonious and feel right. Supported by board-certified surgeon Dr. Lee and a veteran team active in academic research, international societies (including ASPS), and global symposiums, the clinic delivers meticulous planning, precise execution, and attentive postoperative care—strengths that are critical for achieving natural, long-lasting outcomes in philtrum reduction.

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

Haru Clinic

Haru Clinic, located in the vibrant district of Gangnam, Seoul, stands out for its transparent communication, customized service, and unwavering dedication to patient safety and satisfaction. Under the guidance of Dr. Jeong, a seasoned expert in aesthetic medicine and an official research physician at Merz, the clinic delivers personalized care from consultation through post-procedure follow-up. By carefully designing each patient’s face with a focus on harmony and balance, Haru achieves natural, refreshed results through comprehensive non-invasive methods. Its state-of-the-art lifting techniques overcome the limitations of traditional approaches, offering effective, long-lasting outcomes with minimal downtime and making it a preferred destination for those seeking refined facial rejuvenation.

• Why Haru is the best choice for Philtrum Reduction:

  • Expert leadership: Dr. Jeong is an official research physician at Merz, the company behind Belotero Filler, and trains other doctors in the latest filler techniques—bringing cutting-edge, evidence-based methods to philtrum aesthetics.
  • Natural, individualized design: Each philtrum plan is tailored to balance the nose–lip–chin ratio for a refined, harmonious look that remains true to the patient’s features.
  • Non-invasive excellence with surgical-level impact: Haru’s comprehensive approach delivers transformative results comparable to invasive surgery, while keeping downtime minimal and results long-lasting.
  • End-to-end, safety-first care: From thorough consultation to attentive post-procedure follow-up, the team prioritizes transparent communication, patient safety, and satisfaction.
  • Advanced lifting ecosystem: State-of-the-art techniques and innovations help overcome traditional limitations, enhancing precision and predictability in philtrum reduction.
  • Prime Gangnam location: Easy access in Seoul’s aesthetic hub, serving both local and international patients seeking high standards and consistency.

• Key treatments that support philtrum and perioral harmony:

  • Philtrum Shortening Lift (Haru Special): Targets the area between the nose and upper lip to achieve a more balanced upper-face-to-lip proportion.
  • Fillers and Botox: Restore volume, enhance contours, and soften fine lines for a smoother perioral area.
  • Thread Lift and Nose Thread Lift: Provide structural support and definition to surrounding areas, complementing philtrum improvements.
  • V Line Injection and Point V Chin Correction: Refine the jawline and chin for a cohesive lower-face profile that aligns with the adjusted philtrum.
  • Collagen Tightening: Boosts firmness and skin quality, supporting long-term maintenance of results.

You can check out their website here: Haru Clinic Website

Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic

Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic is a destination for transformative, personalized aesthetic care in Korea, guided by sincerity, precision, and individualized treatment. Led by a team of specialized professionals, including a renowned female plastic surgeon with extensive experience, the clinic provides a comprehensive journey that extends beyond procedures to true personal transformation. With expertise that spans body contouring, breast surgery, hairline correction and forehead reduction, facial lifting, eyelid surgery, rhinoplasty, scar and keloid care, and medical skincare, the team designs results that harmonize facial proportions and align with each patient’s unique goals.

Why Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic is the best choice for Philtrum Reduction

• Precision-driven, individualized planning that tailors philtrum length to each patient’s facial proportions for natural, age-appropriate harmony
• A renowned female plastic surgeon’s nuanced aesthetic sense for lip and midface balance, combined with empathetic patient care
• Deep expertise in facial balance across eyes, nose, hairline, and lifting procedures, ensuring the philtrum is refined in harmony with surrounding features
• Comprehensive care from consultation through recovery, with dedicated Scar and Keloid Clinics to support meticulous incision care and improved scar outcomes
• Ability to integrate complementary procedures when indicated, such as rhinoplasty or facial lifting, to achieve cohesive, balanced results
• Cutting-edge medical techniques and a meticulous approach focused on symmetry, proportion, and refined detail
• Transparent communication and thoughtful guidance that align surgical design with personal goals and cultural aesthetics
• Ongoing postoperative support, including professional skincare solutions, to help optimize healing and long-term results

You can check out their website 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.