Mouth Area Wrinkles

Facial volume loss, decreasing facial laxity or environmental factors such as smoke and other pollutants may lead to vertical ‘smoker’s’ lines around the lips. You may have never smoked, but have these lines nonetheless, which can be caused by other things, including the use of a drinking straw or just the way you talk.

In addition to smoker lines, some individuals suffer from marionette or puppet lines. These are lines that extend downward from the corners of the mouth, creating a puppet-like appearance.

To correct either condition (smoker lines or marionette lines), we will generally use an advanced dermal filler (such as JUVEDERM^® or Restylane) in combination with small amounts of precisely placed BOTOX^® Cosmetic. In some instances, we will treat these conditions with a Fraxel or DOT facial resurfacing procedure. Fraxel and DOT procedures will not only correct wrinkles around the mouth, but can help with skin texture and tone, as well. Dr Hardt may also suggest a combination of these, depending on the severity of your problem and how much correction you desire.

Frown Correction

As discussed above, lines extending downward from the corners of the mouth--known commonly as marionette or puppet lines--are another issue that may contribute to an angry, tired, or simply unnatural appearance, over time.

Also, the corners of the mouth (oral commissures) deepen over time as volume is lost from the face. This may be present along with the marionette line, or by itself. These conditions cause you to look unhappy even when you’re not and are one of the biggest contributors to an aged appearance.

Marionette lines and deep oral commissures are treated much the same way. Precisely placed dermal filler, in the area below the corners, and in the corner of the lip itself, will soften or eliminate the problem. This can be done without changing the volume of the lips, if that is your preference. A small amount of BOTOX^® Cosmetic, placed in the muscle that pulls downward on the corner of the mouth may be recommended as well, depending on the patient. The result is a happier, less tired, more natural looking appearance.

Joan M. Hardt, M.D. combines science and art to help optimize your results for a natural, healthy look. Her years of experience and hundreds of wrinkle correction procedures contribute to her artistic technique and your beautiful smile.

At Rejuvena, we do not charge for consultations. To schedule your free consultation, please email or call us at (405)842-1100.