Philtrum: what it is and how to assess it

The philtrum is the vertical groove in the center of the upper lip, between the base of the nose and the edge of the lip. It is bordered by two small ridges, the philtral columns, which end at the peaks of the Cupid's bow. It is a structure everyone has, with variable depth and width.

In aesthetic assessment, the philtrum figures in two readings. The first is the length of the upper lip, measured from the base of the nose to the lip edge, which makes up part of the proportion of the lower third. The second is the definition of the columns, which gives the upper lip relief and a youthful look.

How does the philtrum change with age?

With aging, the upper lip tends to become longer and thinner, the columns lose relief and the philtrum flattens. At the same time, less vermilion is exposed and the upper teeth show less at rest. These changes are part of what makes a lip look older, even without obvious wrinkles.

Does it figure in filler treatment?

Some lip filler plans include enhancing the philtral columns, with small volumes, to restore relief. It is a delicate area, close to important vessels, where a small volume already changes the look a lot. The indication, product and volume are the decision of the qualified professional, after assessment, with hyaluronidase available when hyaluronic acid is used.

A long upper lip, with little tooth show, has a limit for filler, and other approaches can be discussed.

In Harmy

The philtrum sits within the area of the Lips point of the marking; Harmy does not have a separate point for it.

Also known as: philtrum, filtrum, philtral groove.