Treatment options for deep smile lines

Patrick S. Carney, MD answers: How can I treat deep smile lines?

I have deep smile lines on my face. Is a facelift or plastic surgery my only option? Are dermal fillers a possible solution?


Patrick S. Carney, MD
19 months ago

Smile lines, commonly called nasolabial folds and marionette lines, vary in depth and appearance.

Dermal fillers (Collagen, Juvederm, Restylane, Radiesse, Silikon, and Artefill) offer softening and filling of these lines and wrinkles. All dermal fillers are available at Skin Speaks Spa M.D because the characteristics of these fillers vary and what may be best for one patient may not be the best choice for the next.

  • Juvederm, Restylane, Radiesse, and Collagen products offer temporary correction, while Artefill and Silikon 1000 are long-term (categorized as permanent) options.
  • Correction is immediate with all temporary dermal fillers, while long-term fillers may require a second or third treatment for optimal results.
  • A patient who has never attempted treatment is strongly advised to use a temporary filler first to ensure a satisfactory outcome.

Smile lines may be softened and improved with ThermaFrax, a combination treatment using skin tightening (collagen stimulation) and fractional resurfacing as well. This treatment may provide overall improvement to the skin's appearance, however a dermal filler may be unavoidable for maximum result.

At Skin Speaks Spa M.D., Dr. Carney also provides chemical peels that will reduce deep lines and folds, as well as his Local Lift, if there are persistent problems with lax skin elsewhere on the face. This is often a "bonus" in a local lift, leaving less depth and prominence to the once deep smile lines.

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