Lip anatomy terms, explained.

Vermilion is the coloured lip surface. The vermilion border is its edge, Cupid’s bow is the central upper curve, philtral columns are the ridges above it, and oral commissures are the mouth corners. Orbicularis oris is the muscle around the mouth.

The NIH oral-anatomy terminology explains these landmarks. The detailed answers below distinguish location, surface condition and movement.

The vermilion border is the edge where the coloured lip meets the surrounding skin. It is the outline you might follow with lip liner. The fine, paler ridge along that edge is sometimes called the white roll. If you say your lips look less defined, explain whether you mean this outline, the coloured surface or the skin above it. Those descriptions point to different features.

Cupid’s bow is the double curve in the centre of the upper lip border, with two peaks and a dip between them. Its shape varies: the peaks can be more rounded or more pronounced. A softer curve is not automatically a problem. If this is the feature you mean, point to the outline and explain whether you have noticed a change or are asking about your usual shape.

NIH: the philtrum and its bordering ridges. This definition is not a target measurement or a recommendation to change your lips.

There is no single ratio everyone should aim for. A lip ratio often compares the visible height of the upper coloured lip with the lower one; it does not describe the whole face or how the lips move. If someone gives you a number, ask what was measured and in which view. Assessment considers your own proportions and preferences rather than using a number alone to recommend a change.

Projection is how far your lips extend forwards when viewed from the side. Visible lip height is how much coloured lip shows vertically from the front. A lip can look narrow from the front yet project clearly in profile. If you say your lips look thin or prominent, describe the view you mean. The two descriptions are not interchangeable, and neither measurement alone decides whether treatment is appropriate.

Dental show means how much of your teeth is visible when your lips are relaxed, during speech or when you smile. Gum show describes the visible gum above the teeth. These can change as the upper lip lifts and the mouth widens, so a still photograph shows only one moment. Mention recent dental work and any difficulty with comfortable closure, speech or eating; those concerns may need dental or medical assessment.

Orbicularis oris is the muscle around the mouth that helps close and purse your lips. Other facial muscles also contribute to a smile and lip movement. For example, your lips change shape when you say words, purse them or smile. During assessment, use comfortable, ordinary movements rather than trying to make a feature look more pronounced. Tell the practitioner if a movement is difficult or uncomfortable.

Cleveland Clinic explains lip structures and the muscles involved in movement.

The oral commissures are the corners of your mouth, where the upper and lower lips meet. The word names a location. If you are concerned about a corner, explain whether you mean its position, a nearby crease or symptoms such as soreness or cracking. These are different questions. A sore mouth corner needs assessment of the cause, rather than an assumption that it is a cosmetic shape concern.

For a health concern, Cleveland Clinic describes the role of a dentist or primary-care clinician; cosmetic assessment does not replace that care.

No. Dryness describes the surface condition; volume refers to fullness. DermNet describes eczematous cheilitis and surface symptoms; persistent soreness or cracking needs appropriate medical assessment before assuming a cosmetic volume concern.

Corey explains the words while examining the features you want to discuss, at rest and during speech and smiling. You do not need to memorise anatomy: point to the area or ask him to show you what a term means. One initial general consultation is complimentary per person. Check the selected Square appointment listing for its current duration, availability and any fee before booking.

Consultation comes first. If treatment is suitable and appropriate on the day, it can be discussed after assessment, explanation of risks, informed consent, agreement on itemised costs and any required clinical arrangements. Booking does not guarantee treatment. If another day is needed, Corey explains why and the next step. You can leave with information only.

Ahpra explains assessment and informed-consent responsibilities. Appointment fees and arrangements above are clinic policies, not anatomy findings.