How do I get rid of this laugh line on one side of my face? Nothing seems to be working. (Photo)

Question

I'm a 35 year old woman that has started to get a laugh line that to me, looks like it stands out. It's only on one side of my face however. I just got Juverderm one week ago and this is how it looks. Do you have any suggestions?

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

Unfortunately, your doctor is using the old-fashioned technique of simply "chasing after lines and wrinkles" with a simple filler, rather than addressing the underlying, age-related problem of volume loss in the upper and mid-cheek regions that is really behind the development and deepening of the smile lines. Frontal and profile views of your face encompassing a bit more of your cheeks would have given a clearer picture of what needs to be done to improve your smile lines and diminish the incipient jowl formation visible towards the sides of the corners of your mouth. Nevertheless, it does appear that volume loss of the malar cheek pad along with its downward and inward descent are contributing to the appearance of what troubles you. Merely treating the smile lines directly with a plain filler, like simple Juvederm ( which is intended for fine lines and wrinkles), was not likely to lead to either a satisfying or long-lasting result, and can sometimes even make things appear worse, as seems to be the case here. The appropriate way to address this problem is by dealing with the source of the problem--i.e. loss of volume in the malar cheek pads above and perhaps in the mid-face region to a lesser extent, as well. This can be easily accomplished, in a matter of minutes these days via the injection of a volumizing filler, such as Voluma XC (which would be my choice in my Upper East Side Manahattan practice) or Stylage XXL (my choice for this in my Israel satellite facility, where a far greater number of regulatory agency approved injectable volumizing fillers are available). The results of treatment in this fashion, which can be expected to last up to two years, would also appear natural, since they result from directly dealing with underlying problem that has given rise to the smile lines. As an added plus, the overall aging look of the mid-face would very likely be significantly improved, as well. Make sure you consult with a board certified aesthetic physician with experience and expertise in nonsurgical facial contouring, shaping and framing with volumizing fillers. Be sure to insist upon seeing his/her before and after photos before agreeing to proceed. Best of luck.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I recommend fillers to soften the nasolabial folds themselves and also lift around the mouth and cheeks to build underlying anatomical support. In our practice we combine Sculptra with other fillers "layered" on top and lasers, skin tightening treatments such as Thermage, Fractora, and Renuvion (J Plasma), thread lifting,  and peels to get the most conservative, natural look. I suggest seeing a facial sculpting expert for a formal consultation. Best, Dr. Emer

David Shafer, MD, FACS · Answer

Laugh Line Treatment is common and includes fillers in the actual line but also in your cheeks.  It would be important to examine you in animation and also at rest so that the treatment can be customized to your individual anatomy.  One thing to remember is that all these treatments soften the lines but will not remove the entirely.  There has to be a balance between achieving a natural result without looking over filled.  Also, it would be good to inquire about preventive things you can do such as sleeping on your back instead of on your side if you do.  Side sleeping can accentuate the lines and wrinkles o the face.Good Luck

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

It's normal to have some laugh lines. It looks like your injector has targeted the line only and perhaps you should use a product for mid-face rejuvenation like Restylane Lyft or Voluma into your cheeks. Consult an expert injector a cheek lift.Warmest regards, Dr. ALDO

Shanthala Shivananjappa, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Based on your information it is possible that you might benefit from both skin tightening of the lower face and mid face volume correction which can improve the laugh lines. Speak with an expert aesthetic physician who can evaluate you and guide you in the right direction. Best of luck. Dr. Shanthala

How do I get rid of this laugh line on one side of my face? Nothing seems to be working. (Photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: Laugh lines...

Answer: Laugh lines...

Answer: Laugh line getting worse after juvederm!

Answer: Laugh line getting worse after juvederm!

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Everything you need to know about Juvederm

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How do I get rid of this laugh line on one side of my face? Nothing seems to be working. (Photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: Laugh lines...

Answer: Laugh lines...

Answer: Laugh line getting worse after juvederm!

Answer: Laugh line getting worse after juvederm!

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Juvederm

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.