Can Botox address an upper lip sneer? (Photos)

Question

When I am at rest, say listening to someone, I feel like my upper lip sneers a bit. When I try to actively lift one side of my lip vs the other it is extremely easy on one side but very difficult on the other. Can Botox help with this and what muscle would be injected? I was also born with a microform cleft lip. Not sure if that has anything to do with it but the lift is stronger on the cleft side.

Steven H. Williams, MD · Answer

Hi,Thank you for your question and sharing your photo.You are a good candidate for botox in one of the lip elevator muscles to relax the muscle. A couple of units should help and the results take about 2 weeks for full results. This treatment area is considered off-label so make sure to see an experienced, board-certified provider for best aesthetic outcome. Hope this helps!

Monica Boen, MD · Answer

A small amount of Botox could relax the muscle on the side of your lip that pulls upward too strongly, creating an unintentional sneer. This is an advanced procedure, however, so please take your time when interviewing board-certified dermatologists. Find one who has successfully resolved this issue before to get the most beautiful and flattering results.

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

Upper lip sneer?Yes! I do believe that Botox can help you resolve the issues with your upper lip. However, it is better to see you in an in person examination and then address this issue in detail. Always see an expert in this field before having treatments.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Yes, Botox may be able to improve this. You'll want to see someone meticulous. It will take 1-2 weeks for final results. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with cosmetic dermatologist. Best, Dr. Emer

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and photographs.  This appearance is likely due to your cleft lip, depending on how significant the microform was.  That said you may be able to improve upon your resting posture with a small amount of botox into the more active side through a trial and error process.  See an ASPS board certified plastic surgeon to assess the best dosing and location.

David C. Mabrie, MD · Answer

Hi Agirl61,
Thank you for your question and photos! 
  
Yes, Botox can be used to address an upper lip sneer, a facial expression sometimes referred to as an Elvis Snarl, after Elvis Presley’s famous snarl expression. 
  
A small amount of Botox can be injected lateral to the nose, directly into the levator labii superioris alaeque nasi muscle which is responsible for this movement. If this muscle is hyperactive or too tight it can cause an upper lip sneer. Botox to this muscle will help prevent this expression. 
  
It typically takes 3 days to notice results from Botox start to kick in, and it can take up to 2 weeks for Botox to reach full effect. On average, results last 3 months. 
  
I’ve created a video where I review Botox and how it functions. 
  
I hope this information helps in your research!

Yael Halaas, MD · Answer

Botox must be injected by a board-certified medical professional, especially when injecting around the mouth.  Keep in mind that everyone has their own sets of expressions and yours is what makes you unique.  I suggest in-patient consultation with a board-certified facial plastic surgeon who can determine if Botox injections can help you reach your aesthetic goals.

Carmen A. Traywick, MD, FAAD · Answer

Everyone has unique expressions. We move our facial muscles in a repetitive way and over time those repetitive movements cause wrinkles and fine lines. When you start to experience the signs of aging, Botox are available to diminish unwanted wrinkles and creases in your face.Botox lock the release of a chemical called acetylcholine, which triggers the muscle contractions that create wrinkles. Botox essentially paralyze the muscles and stops them from contracting. Results from these treatments are visible within 3-7 days with results that can last anywhere from 3-4 months.Botox be used to improve:Worry lines in your forehead Lines between the eyebrows Smile lines Laugh lines from nose to mouth Crow’s feet
Botox can be used to improve stubborn lines to the upper lip, much like when pursing the lips. Next step for you is to schedule a consultation with a board certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon to discuss your options and goals. Best wishes.

Monika Soni, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question! Yes, Botox may be able to improve this. You'll want to see someone meticulous. It will take 1-2 weeks for final results. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with cosmetic dermatologist. Best of luck!

J. Timothy Heffernan, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Yes I believe Botox will help with your sneer over the course of 1-2 treatments. I would highly recommend consulting with an expert board certified injector for this procedure. Best of luck, Dr. Heffernan