Horizontal line between nose and upper lip when I smile? Would Botox fix this? (photos)

Question

When I smile I have a very pronounced horizontal crease above my upper lip. I hate it--it looks like a mustache! What is the best way to treat this? Would botox or juvederm work?

Andrew Campbell, MD · Answer

Botox can often help this kind of lip line, but seldom, in my experience, does it make it go away. Filler may also help, but the injector needs to be very careful that they don't cause a visible bump there when you are not smiling. See an experienced injector, this is not a common problem.Andrew Campbell, M.D.
Facial Rejuvenation Specialist
Quintessa Aesthetic Centers

Farhan Taghizadeh, MD · Answer

Hello, and thanks for your question.  Botox or a similar neurotoxin would work to weaken the muscles that cause the crease when you smile.  There might be other options as well that a Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon could discuss with you after an in-person consultation. 
Good luck and Happy New Year!

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Yes, this can be improved with well-placed Botox. Botox results take 1-2 weeks. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a facial sculpting expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. Botox is the best option to relax the fold in the upper lip from excessive muscle activity. This injection must be done with great care using about 1 or 2 units only. At a follow up visit, a second small dose may be necessary, but that's a better situation than over relaxing the lip muscles. Good luck. Dr. ALDO

Peterson Pierre, MD · Answer

Thank you for the photos! Botox is probably your best option for this. Very little is needed and it needs to be placed correctly. As with all cosmetic procedures, the skill of the injector is paramount. Don't trust your face to just anyone! Always seek an expert in facial aesthetics, such as a board-certified dermatologist, to maximize results while minimizing side effects

Leonard Grossman, MD · Answer

You need an in-person evaluation by a plastic surgeon hopefully. Botox should help, but in many patients I find that addition of a filler such as Restylane works even better. Good luck from New York City

Melvin Elson, MD · Answer

This is actually quite common and can be allerviated with Botox so see a board ceritifed and experienced dermatologist

Horizontal line between nose and upper lip when I smile? Would Botox fix this? (photos)

Answers (7)

More Botox Questions

Botox lip. Half a cigarette about 1 hour later...

Feminizing square bony female face: I'm concerned with my large masseter muscles and long rectangular face. (Photo)

Average cost of Botox for forehead, between the brows and crows feet in Eastern Canada?

I’m pregnant and the smile lines around my eyes really look bad without Botox. Are there any safe alternative procedures?

How long will it take for Botox to start wearing off?

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS