What's the best approach for smoothing mature skin on the chin and upper lip - chemical peel, laser, filler? (photo)

Question

As I've got older the skin on my chin has become more textured. And the skin above my lip has got grooves or little channels - like I'm a smoker (I'm not). There seems to be different treatment options. I'd like advice on what might be good and how long I can expect the results to last. Thanks

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I suggest reaching out to an expert for a formal consultation. I like to recommend my patients start a combination of facial rejuvenation treatments.

1) Skincare with products and microneedling/PRP
2) PDT Light Therapy a few times per month with growth factors
3) Laser treatments like Clear + Brilliant regularly and others (Fraxel, Moxi, Viva, CO2, Erbium, Halo) a few times per year
4) Sculptra injections a few times per year for collagen production with fillers like Juvederm, Restylane, Belotero, Radiesse, and/or Bellafill
5) Thermage/Ultherapy for yearly skin tightening with or without PDO or cone-based Instalift threads for lifting
6) Botox every 2 to 3 months to stop movement lines and prevent lines at rest

Best, Dr. Emer.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our treatments use combination therapy to improve the epidermis and dermis for most deep scars. The options available for acne scars depend on the character of your scars, in terms of topography and contour. We see atrophic and hypertrophic acne scars, as well as scars that have hypo and hyperpigmentation. We begin each scar evaluation with an assessment of scar quality and subtype. Our main concern is rebuilding collagen and that is why we use a HIDEF protocol that includes combination therapy. Morpheus 8, scar subcision, fibrous release, fractional laser, CO2 laser, Thulium laser, PDL Vbeam laser, and fractional resurfacing can be used in addition to TCA Cross and chemical peels to further improve skin. Patients should start Melarase AM and Melarase PM for active hyperpigmentation. Always begin with a consultation to decide whether early subcision should be started.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photo. The area of skin you’re referring to would likely benefit most from either RF microneedling or a laser resurfacing treatment. Both options boost the body's natural production of collagen, refreshing the skin from the inside out. The smooth and youthful results from either approach can be long-lasting, particularly when adequate skincare is maintained. I recommend scheduling an in-person consultation with an experienced, board-certified injector. They will be able to answer any questions you may have and help you decide on the best treatment option.

Nadja Haub, MD · Answer

Hi there,
Upper lip lines, often called "smoker's lines" or "lip wrinkles," can develop due to various factors, including aging, sun exposure, repetitive facial movements, and genetics. So non-smokers, like in your case, can get them as well. 
While it's challenging to eliminate these lines entirely, several treatment options can help reduce their appearance.
First of all, I would recommend using high-quality anti-ageing skin care. This can help soften the lines and make your skin look plumper above the lips. 
My preferred treatment option for upper lip lines is a mix of Botox and dermal filler. To do this, I gently insert a cannula close to your upper lip and loosen the skin on top of the lip. This creates a small space. I then inject a carefully crafted mix of dermal filler and Botox into this space. Results take two weeks to be fully seen. 
Other treatment options, such as laser resurfacing and micro-needling, are also available. But I see most dramatic results with dermal filler and Botox. 
Please also read my blog about treatment options for upper lip lines.

What's the best approach for smoothing mature skin on the chin and upper lip - chemical peel, laser, filler? (photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Upper lip lines

Answer: Upper lip lines

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Everything you need to know about Chemical Peel

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

What's the best approach for smoothing mature skin on the chin and upper lip - chemical peel, laser, filler? (photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Upper lip lines

Answer: Upper lip lines

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Chemical Peel

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