Is Botox a solution for correcting a sneering upper lip when I smile?

Question

My natural smile mostly involves lifting up my upper lip muscles which creates a "crinkling" nose or sneering effect. This also happens when I get nervous. I find it unsettling to be honest. I wanted to know if Botox in this area could help relax this area in such a way that would improve my smile?

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

It's difficult to tell without pictures, but yes, Botox may be able to improve this. It takes 1-2 weeks for final results with Botox. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a cosmetic dermatologist. Hope this helps.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

you may need surgery or there maybe no options .  we need to see photos and videos to determine what is best.  sometimes botox can help.  please see an expert.Best, Dr. Emer.

Harold J. Kaplan, MD · Answer

Hi Jcasica. It's possible that the lines you are speaking about (crinkling of the nose) have to do with the muscles on the sides of the nose.  We refer to these lines as bunny lines and very commonly inject them at our practice.  The procedure smooths out the crinkled appearance of the nose while smiling.  It's quick and easy with results in a few days.

Monika Soni, MD · Answer

It's possible that the lines you are speaking about (crinkling of the nose) have to do with the muscles on the sides of the nose.  We refer to these lines as bunny lines and very commonly inject them at our practice.  The procedure smooths out the crinkled appearance of the nose while smiling.  It's quick and easy with results in a few days.

Nicholas S. Karter, MD · Answer

There are two main muscles which could be contributing to the sneering effect you describe. The first is a nasal depressor, it can lift the upper lip in the mid-line and pull the tip of the nose down (perhaps the crinkling you refer to). The second is a long muscle that travels along the side of the nostrils and lifts the upper lip a little more laterally. Either of these muscles can be treated with Botox to soften their effect. A very small amount of Botox goes a long way in these areas. Although it is difficult to achieve perfect symmetry, it can help balance your smile. I would recommend talking with an injector in your area and discussing your goals with them. I hope this helped, good luck!!

Carmen A. Traywick, MD, FAAD · Answer

Hello Jcasica - Botox could be a great option for this. 
Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin lock the release of a chemical called acetylcholine, which triggers the muscle contractions that create wrinkles. Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin essentially paralyze the muscles and stops them from contracting. Results from these treatments are visible within two to four days with results that can last anywhere from four to six months. 
Next step for you would be to schedule an appointment with a board certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon to discuss your options and goals. Best wishes.

Johnson C. Lee, MD · Answer

Botox may be a possible solution to the upper lip sneering that occurs when you are smiling. The best way to determine this is to evaluate your smile in the office. If the muscle depressors of the nose are significantly pulling your nasal tip and lip during your smile, a targeted injection of botox may help. Simply injecting botox into different areas along the upper lip will cause the opposite effect and may affect your smile or ability to maintain a seal with your mouth and lips (drooling etc). Hope this helps!Johnson C. Lee, MD
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
IG: @drjohnsonlee

Is Botox a solution for correcting a sneering upper lip when I smile?

Answers (7)

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