Can Botox Be Used to Correct Marionette Lines? Is That Possible?

Hi Rosie.  We do at times use Botox in the chin area, but not specifically for marionette lines.  We use Botox to relax the mentalis, which is the chin muscle that can cause a condition called "pebble chin".  This constant flexing of the chin muscle can cause the chin to look mottled or bumpy almost as if acne scars are present when they are not.  But I digress....

We use Restylane, Juvederm, Perlane or Radiesse in the lower face.  We do not use Botox for marionette lines. Most often Restylane, Perlane or Juvederm in the marionette lines and Radiesse for the jowls at the outer edge of these lines.  Take a look at the link below for more information on the facial areas we treat and how we treat them.

  I have heard Botox used for this and have tried it in a handful of patients.  I have not seen much improvement.  Fillers are better here.

Marionette lines are formed by a combination of a loss of facial volume, normal skin aging, and the presence of deep retaining ligaments attached to the skin.  There are surgical and non-surgical methods of treatment.  In regards to non-surgical methods, they are best treated with dermal fillers which can restore volume and also elevate deep folds.  Botox Cosmetic can be useful when the corners of the mouth are downturned secondary to overactive depressor muscles.  On some occasions, optimal results are obtained with a combination of the two treatments.