Strange cheek muscles when smiling. How can I fix it? (Photo)

Question

A couple of years ago I noticed in a photo of me smiling that I have these strange ‘dents’ in my cheeks - it’s more noticeable on one side. My face looks normal when it’s rested, it really is only noticeable when I smile but it’s really annoying me, it makes me not want to smile. I didn’t have it when I was younger, it’s something more recent. I am worried that it may have been caused by previous filler I had in my cheek (0.5ml) but that was 2 years ago. Could that be the cause? How can I fix it

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

It's understandable that changes in your appearance can be concerning, especially when they affect your smile. The "dents" you describe could be due to several factors, including natural facial muscle movements, changes in facial fat distribution, or previous cosmetic procedures like filler injections.

Since you mentioned having cheek fillers two years ago, it's possible that the filler may have influenced the appearance of your smile, although fillers typically dissolve over time. It's also possible that the filler may have altered the underlying structure of your cheek tissue, leading to the changes you're noticing.

To address this issue, consider the following options:

Consultation with a Dermatologist or Plastic Surgeon: A professional evaluation can help determine the exact cause of the dents. They can assess whether it's related to the previous filler or if other factors are involved.

Dermal Fillers or Fat Grafting: If volume loss is contributing to the dents, additional fillers or fat grafting may help smooth out the area. A specialist can advise on the best type of filler and placement to achieve a natural look.

Botox or Neuromodulators: In some cases, strategic use of Botox can relax specific muscles, potentially altering the way your smile appears. This option would depend on a detailed facial assessment.

Massage and Facial Exercises: While not a guaranteed solution, some people find that gentle massage or targeted facial exercises help improve muscle tone and symmetry over time.

Surgical Options: In rare cases, minor surgical procedures might be considered to adjust underlying tissues, but this would typically be a last resort.

It's best to start by consulting with a skilled dermatologist or plastic surgeon who can provide personalized advice based on an in-person evaluation. They can discuss the potential benefits and risks of each option, helping you make an informed decision about how to proceed.

Strange cheek muscles when smiling. How can I fix it? (Photo)

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Strange cheek muscles when smiling. How can I fix it? (Photo)

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