What Is a Gummy Smile (Vertical Maxillary Excess)?

A gummy smile, also known as vertical maxillary excess (VME), occurs when the upper jaw is vertically overgrown, causing excessive gum exposure when smiling. This can make the upper teeth and gums look overly visible, giving an unbalanced or less refined appearance.

Common features of a gummy smile include:

• More than 3–4mm of gum visible when smiling
• A long, protruding midface
• Lips that cannot fully cover the teeth at rest
• A “horse-like” or toothy smile in photos
• The lower face appearing shorter compared to the upper face
• Difficulty achieving a natural, relaxed smile

What Is Vertical Maxillary Reduction Surgery?

Vertical Maxillary Reduction Surgery is a specialized orthognathic procedure that corrects vertical maxillary excess by repositioning the upper jaw (maxilla) upward.

At Seoul Cheil Plastic Surgery, this surgery is performed with 3D facial analysis to ensure a precise, natural result. The procedure involves:

• Performing a Le Fort I osteotomy (upper jaw cut)
• Moving the upper jaw upward to reduce vertical height
• Decreasing gum exposure and balancing the smile
• Realigning the bite for functional improvement
• Surgery time: Approximately 3–4 hours under general anesthesia
• Internal fixation with titanium plates and screws for stability
• Hidden incisions inside the mouth for no visible scars

Why Combine With Other Procedures?

Vertical maxillary excess often affects overall facial proportions. For a truly balanced and beautiful result, vertical maxillary reduction is frequently combined with:

• Genioplasty (chin reshaping) to adjust chin height after maxillary repositioning
• Cheekbone reduction for facial width balance
• Nasal tip refinement or alar reduction for a proportionate nose-to-lip ratio
• Fat grafting to restore soft tissue volume in key areas

This comprehensive approach ensures a harmonious, natural-looking result.

Key Characteristics of Vertical Maxillary Excess (Gummy Smile)

• Excessive gum exposure when smiling
• Lips that struggle to cover teeth naturally
• Long, protruding midface
• A smile that appears too “toothy” or stretched
• A face that looks top-heavy or elongated
• Difficulty achieving a confident, balanced smile

Can Botox or Fillers Fix a Gummy Smile?

Botox can temporarily relax the upper lip muscles for mild gummy smiles, but it:

• Does not address skeletal issues (the real cause of VME)
• Needs repeat injections every 4–6 months
• Has limited effectiveness in moderate to severe cases

For a permanent, structural solution, vertical maxillary reduction surgery is the only effective option.

Vertical Maxillary Reduction Surgery at Seoul Cheil Plastic Surgery

Seoul Cheil Plastic Surgery is a top destination for orthognathic surgery and facial bone contouring, offering:

• Over 20 years of experience in advanced jaw surgery
• 3D facial analysis for precise, customized treatment plans
• Scar-free intraoral techniques for natural, beautiful results
• Comprehensive post-op care, including swelling management and recovery guidance
• Multilingual team for international patients



If you’re tired of a gummy smile and want a more balanced, confident appearance, Vertical Maxillary Reduction Surgery at Seoul Cheil Plastic Surgery can help you achieve the beautiful, natural smile you’ve always wanted.

Book your consultation today and take the first step toward a new, balanced you!