What options other than filler can help minimize the appearance of my prominent perioral region? (photos)

Question

I've always had the orbicularis oral muscle be very prominent on my face. It creates an un-smooth appearance and it makes me extremely unphotogenic. In addition to the muscle/fat looking weird, I also have a blue darkness probably from deep facial veins that show through. I hate it so much and I want it to be fixed! Yes, I have tried fillers in the nasolabial folds and it only made the problem look worse because it added volume where I think volume should be taken away. What can be done?

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

There are several options you could consider minimizing the appearance of your prominent perioral region:

1. Botulinum Toxin Injections (Botox): Botox can be used to relax the orbicularis oris muscle, reducing its prominence. However, this should be done carefully as overuse can affect your ability to move your mouth properly.

2. Laser Treatments: Certain types of laser treatments can help with the blue darkness caused by deep facial veins. These treatments work by targeting the pigment in the blood, causing the blood vessels to collapse and fade away.

3. Liposuction: If the prominence is due to excess fat, liposuction could be a solution. This would involve the removal of fat from the area to reduce volume.

4. Surgery: If the prominence is due to the structure of your bones or muscle, surgery may be an option. This could include reshaping the jaw or chin, or reducing the size of the orbicularis oris muscle.

5. Skin Care: Various skin care treatments may also help. These could include peels, dermabrasion, or topical creams. These treatments can help to improve the texture and tone of the skin, reducing the appearance of any imperfections.

6. Makeup: While not a permanent solution, makeup can be used to create the illusion of a less prominent perioral region. This could include contouring to create shadows and highlights that draw attention away from the area.

Before deciding on any treatment, it's important to consult with a qualified professional who can assess your specific situation and provide personalized advice.

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

Since you appear to have relatively thick facial skin and full cheeks, having a prominent nasolabial fold is common. This does not require any sort of intervention, in my opinion. I hope this helps. Sincerely, Dr Joseph

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

You may want to consider Morpheus8.  This treatment combines RF technology with microneedling to improve overall skin tone and texture.  Three treatment sessions are recommended for optimal results.  See my website or an experienced provider near you for details.

What options other than filler can help minimize the appearance of my prominent perioral region? (photos)

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What options other than filler can help minimize the appearance of my prominent perioral region? (photos)

Answers (3)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Dermal Fillers

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