How can I fix a downward smile ?

Question

I want to ask how to fix my lips/smile please & my heavy jawline. I have never been able to smile properly, it's not to do with aging. I'm 30. I had braces, & I had a MACS lift. Recently I had botox injected into the masseter muscles which reduced it slightly. My face improved slightly after the MACS lift but still I can't smile like other people do. My teeth don't move with my lips so I have never smiled with my mouth open showing the teeth.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and I am sorry to hear of your frustrations with your lips and smile.  Unfortunately without an in-person examination or full series of photographs it is difficult to offer definite advice.  I would see a board certified plastic surgeon in order to discuss your concerns and see if there is a treatable cause.  Best wishes.

Yasser A. Elseweifi, DDS · Answer

A downward smile (drooping mouth corners) is not treated with Botox injection into the masseter muscles. It is treated by Botox injection into the DAO muscles. This treatment is very effective but only lasts for 3-4 months and will require re-injection. Drooping mouth corners can also be treated with thread lift (lasting 12-18 months), with fillers, or a combination. It is not possible to determine the best treatment for you without an evaluation or at least some photographs. Good luck.

Steven F. Weiner, MD · Answer

Elevating the corners of the mouth can be done with a combination of filler, such as Restylane or Lyft and Dysport/Botox in the DAO muscle. It is hard to comment of the jawline and your smile without pictures.

How can I fix a downward smile ?

Answers (3)