Deep horizontal line above my lip when I smile, it makes me look deformed. Please what can I do about this? (photo)

Question

Just noticed after a evening out, looking at my photos a deep horizontal line that makes me look deformed when smiling. I last had lip fillers one year ago so do not think it could from that. Also I will be getting lip fillers again in a few weeks time. But with summer coming up I really do not want to not smile, it makes me look ugly and not like me. Please what do you suggest.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

It would be better if we had a photograph in repose but one technique I use for this is a lip lift.  This will shorten the distance between your nose and upper lip, increases the mucosa of the upper lip, increases the incisor show and pulls up the corners.  This will eliminate the wrinkle you have described.
Best Wishes,
Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

A downturned smile or permanent frown can be improved with a combination approach, including Botox/Dysport, injectable fillers, and radiofrequency skin tightening treatments such as Thermage or Venus Legacy. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with an experienced cosmetic dermatologist to develop a treatment plan that works for you. Best, Dr. Emer.

Johnson C. Lee, MD · Answer

Thank you for your photo. The transverse lip crease occurs as we age and our upper lip slowly stretches with gravity. When you smile, the extra skin folds in at its weakest point which is where the crease is. The best way to resolve this is a modified lip lift. This will also bring your upper lip up slightly so you do not need to use as much filler.  This is a quick procedure with very little downtime. It is best to have an in-office evaluation for a more detailed treatment plan. Hope this helps!

Johnson C. Lee, MD 
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon

Deep horizontal line above my lip when I smile, it makes me look deformed. Please what can I do about this? (photo)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Lip Fillers

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

Deep horizontal line above my lip when I smile, it makes me look deformed. Please what can I do about this? (photo)

Answers (3)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Lip Fillers

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