I have a down turned upper lip. What procedures do you recommend? (Photos)

Question

I got a double jaw surgery to fix overbite, overjet, and small lower jaw. Insurance paid for everything. But post surgery, i feel it shortened my lips (used to spread into middle of eyes). And lost support in corners. Also my smile kind of frowns. I also tried lip injections 1.5 years ago. It was ok, but I want something more permanent, and didnt like having to return every so often

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

A downturned smile or permanent frown can be improved with a combination approach, including neuromodulators (such as Botox, Dysport, and Jeuveau), injectable fillers, and radiofrequency skin tightening treatments such as Thermage or Venus Legacy. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with an experienced cosmetic dermatologist to develop a treatment plan that works for you. Best, Dr. Emer.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

It is frequently seen after advancement of upper and lower jaws to correct occlusion. Due to advancement of both jaws lips are pushed forward and stretched what creates condition that you have. Most patients find it rather attractive in comparison to flat, long upper lip that some have before surgery. It looks attractive. You will have to get used and learn how to smile; it is a question of exercise and muscle training. Most patient require no surgery. Good luck.

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for your question and photos. there are three types of corner lip lifts , each of which provide their own benefits that can help correct down turned lips. The noninvasive route would be fillers plus or minus a neuromodulator such as Botox® into the depressor anguli oris muscle. This treatment route is good for mild cases. However, corner lip ptosis progresses with age. 
 A traditional corner lip lift will elevate the drooping corners of your mouth while at the same time, help eradicate the small fold (marionette fold) that originates from the corner. The surgery can be performed under local  anesthesia and results are subtle yet dramatic. 
 The DAO release is performed within the mouth but is a less effective treatment option than a traditional corner lift (the effects of which can be predicted by injecting Botox ®  into the aforementioned muscle). It does nothing for any marionette folds 
 A medialized corner lip lift is one which elevates the corners of the mouth, lessens the marionette folded and also can directly reshape the lateral vermillion. It is essentially a "magic trick". Results are permanent, subtle and yet, as mentioned, very dramatic.

I have a down turned upper lip. What procedures do you recommend? (Photos)

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Everything you need to know about Lip Surgery

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I have a down turned upper lip. What procedures do you recommend? (Photos)

Answers (3)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Lip Surgery

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