Fillers for lip corner fold? I'm 19 and slim and have always had downturned lip corners. (photo)

Question

I'm 19 and slim and have always had downturned lip corners due to chubby cheeks, but one is significantly worse. I've tried DAO botox to no avail, as it seems to be caused by skin tightness. It's not a wrinkle or sagging, which are most of the problems asked about here, so I'm wondering if placing support below the fold using dermal fillers may help?

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

Your intuition is right on the mark The use of robust HA lifting filler to provide support to the angles of the mouth is the appropriate treatment for this kind of issue. It doesn't typically much to achieve the desired result. You would wise to consult with an experienced, board certified cosmetic dermatologist filler expert. Be sure to ask to see his/her personal befores and after prior to agreeing to proceed. Hope this helps and best of luck.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Hi there, thank you for sharing your question — and your photo — so clearly. I can see exactly what you’re describing about the gentle down-turning at the corners of your lips, and your explanation that it’s something you’ve always had (rather than age-related sagging) is very helpful.

In younger patients, lip corner descent is often influenced by natural anatomy — things like cheek fullness, muscle pull, and how the skin attaches around the oral commissure. When the depressor anguli oris (DAO) isn’t the main driver, Botox alone may not make a noticeable difference, which aligns with your experience.

For your case, subtle filler placement can sometimes help by providing structural support just beneath the corner of the lip. The goal isn’t to “fill” the area heavily, but to gently lift and balance the oral commissure so the corner doesn’t turn downward. This technique is often paired with soft, precise placement along the marionette area or lateral lip to support the tissue without changing your natural lip shape.

It’s important that the injector uses a very conservative approach — especially since your features are youthful and delicate — to avoid adding heaviness or altering your lip proportion.

Overall, yes — the right type of filler, placed strategically, can help correct asymmetry and give a more neutral or slightly upturned appearance to the corners.

I hope this gives you clarity and reassurance as you explore your options.

David Hansen, MD · Answer

Filling in the corners of the mouth will make a sad smile look happy and youthful.  Botox is usually worthless and can distort this area easily.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Based on your posted photo for the downward effect of the corners of your mouth, you can try HA fillers a lip lift minor surgery under anesthesia is a more permanent result. Fee for that surgery is $3000. Best to consult virtually so recommendation can may be made for surgery in Houston. Regards.

Fillers for lip corner fold? I'm 19 and slim and have always had downturned lip corners. (photo)

Answers (4)

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