What would fix the look of filler when smiling? (Photo)

Thank you for sharing your photo and expressing your concerns so openly. It’s very common to notice that filler and fat transfer look different when smiling compared to when the face is at rest, since smiling activates many facial muscles and shifts the underlying tissues. This can sometimes make filler appear more prominent, or create imbalances that feel exaggerated in motion.

In your case, the combination of cheek filler/fat transfer and lip filler may be creating a look that feels less natural to you when smiling. There are a few potential approaches:

Adjustment with balance rather than dissolving: Sometimes adding small amounts of filler in surrounding areas such as the lateral cheeks, chin, or even along the jawline can help even out proportions so the smile looks more harmonious.

Under-eye filler: If there is hollowing under the eyes, filling that area subtly can smooth the transition between the cheeks and eyes, which may reduce the contrast you’re noticing when smiling.

Sculptra: This can help by gradually restoring volume in a softer, more diffuse way, which can complement or balance areas treated with traditional filler.

Dissolving (if needed): While not always necessary, a small amount of dissolving can sometimes refine heaviness or unevenness if filler is sitting superficially or moving unnaturally with expression.

The right option depends on whether the “off” look you’re noticing is from too much volume in one area, or from an imbalance between different facial zones. Often, a very conservative tweak rather than a major reversal can restore balance while keeping the benefits you already have.

This result would require reassessment while the face is at rest and during movement. After evaluating the face while moving, the decision on whether it's necessary to dissolving some of the superficial placed filler is necessary.
At our practice, we use advanced hyaluronic acid fillers designed to move naturally with your facial expressions for soft, seamless results. For deeper rejuvenation, we also offer biostimulators like Sculptra, which gradually restore collagen and smooth areas such as around the mouth for longer-lasting improvement.

Filler under the eyes will not impact your smile. Dissolving the filler and being more strategic with the look you are wanting is one option. A lip flip is also very popular. This uses Botox to "flip" the top lip so that more of the lip is showing. Visit with an experienced injector to discuss your concerns and learn more about your options.

What would be really helpful is to have your photographs prior to the procedure with the face being relaxed, and while smiling. It is not unusual to have a strange feeling when you’re smiling after photographing because now you have volume that you never had before. the question is, do you look better now that you’ve had your fat grafting. By itself the photograph that you presented looks quite nice and I cannot make a comment as to what needs to be done. I hope this helps and good luck from Leonard Grossman, M.D., organic Plastic Surgery New York City.