Philtrum
Pronunciation: FIL-trum
The vertical groove running from the base of the nose to the centre of the upper lip, an important aesthetic landmark in perioral treatment.
Full Definition
The philtrum is the medial infranasal depression formed by two ridges (philtral columns) flanking a central groove between the nose and upper lip. In cosmetic dermatology writing, it appears in descriptions of lip augmentation, perioral filler placement, and assessment of facial proportions. Editors should note that 'philtrum' refers to the groove itself, while 'philtral columns' or 'philtral ridges' refer to the lateral elevations. Authors occasionally misuse 'philtrum' to mean the columns; this should be queried. The plural is 'philtra', though 'philtrums' appears in informal usage.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish carefully between 'philtrum' (the groove) and 'philtral columns' (the ridges); they are not interchangeable.
In Context
- "Enhancement of the philtrum was achieved by placing small filler deposits along the philtral columns." — Lip augmentation case report
- "The author used 'philtrum' to refer to the ridges; the editor queried whether 'philtral columns' was intended." — Manuscript query log