DAO Botox Pros and Cons - will this help the downturn in my lips? (Photos)

Hello, thank you for your inquiry. The downward turn in the mouth is a result of natural aging from decreased cheek volume, bone resorption and the DAO muscle pulling the corners of the mouth down over time. Optimally, Botox, fillers and laser can be used to treat the area. If fillers are unwanted, DAO Botox can be used to prevent the area from worsening. There is a risk that the DLI muscle, a muscle that is used to smile, can be injected because it is so close to the DAO muscle. However, if this happens, the other DLI muscle can be hit to make the smile appear more even. Increase jowling would potentially come from masseter Botox because if we slim the jaw, skin laxity can still persist. Overall, DAO Botox has significant benefits but you may need more intervention depending on how much correction you are looking to achieve.

Hi, I’m Lauren, the aesthetic injector at Colorado Plastic Surgery Center. The DAO muscle pulls the corners of the mouth downward. Injecting Botox into this muscle can soften the downward pull and slightly lift the mouth's corners.

Using Botox to target the Depressor Anguli Oris (DAO) muscles can be an effective way to address a downturn in the corners of the lips. Here are some pros and cons to consider:

Pros:

Improves Lip Appearance: By relaxing the DAO muscles, Botox can help lift the corners of the mouth, reducing the appearance of a frown or downturn.

Non-Invasive: Botox is a minimally invasive procedure with no downtime, making it a convenient option for those seeking temporary improvements.

Quick Procedure: The treatment is fast, typically taking only a few minutes to perform, with results visible within a few days to a week.

Temporary Effects: The effects of Botox are temporary, lasting about 3 to 4 months, allowing for adjustments in future treatments based on results.

Cons:

Potential for Asymmetry: If not administered precisely, Botox can lead to asymmetry in the smile, which may require additional treatments to correct.

Risk of Increased Jowling: Relaxing the DAO muscles can sometimes lead to a slight increase in jowling, as other muscles may compensate for the reduced activity.

Limited Duration: The temporary nature of Botox means that regular maintenance treatments are necessary to maintain the desired effect.

Possible Side Effects: As with any injectable treatment, there is a risk of side effects such as bruising, swelling, or unintended muscle relaxation.

Considering these factors, it may be beneficial to consult with an experienced dermatologist or plastic surgeon who can assess your specific needs and provide guidance on whether DAO Botox is the right choice for you.