Botox for asymmetric smile? (Photo)

Question

I had a childhood operation (not sure of the nature) which left me with a scar on the right side of my neck, a crooked smile as well as crooked speech. It is much less noticeable with a closed lip smile. I would like to know whether Botox to the unaffected side would be helpful and which muscle/s in particular would need to be targeted. Thank you.

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

Thanks for this great question. Since this was a childhood surgery, it is unlikely that the nerve will come back. You have a nerve palsy (marginal mandibular nerve) that prevents the right corner of the mouth from being pulled down when you smile. The best treatment would likely be to relax the opposite side to ring the left corner up. The most famous asymmetrical mouth is, of course, Sylvester Stallone who was born with the same nerve defect that causes his bottom lip to look higher when he smiles/grimaces. I suggest you speak with an experienced injector and consider a combination of dermal filler and neuromodulator. You can also try Dysport or Botox without the filler to relax the muscle which pulls the mouth corner down. Best wishes always, Dr. ALDO :)

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Fillers and botox can be used to improve this area. Lasers or surgery can sometimes help asymmetry.  See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and photographs.  In order to balance out your smile you would need to have Botox placed in the areas of the left lower chin where the muscles responsible for pulling the lower lip downward exist.  This typically involves treatment of the depressor anguli oris and depressor labii inferioris.  Hope this helps.

Hardik Soni, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Since you had this surgery in your childhood it is unlikely the nerve will come back. This can be treated by relaxing the opposite side to bring the left corner up. I recommend having a consultation with an experienced injector to determine the best treatment plan for you.

Jill C. Fichtel, MD · Answer

Nerve damage from the operation is likely what caused this asymmetry to begin with.  Botox can help improve (but not completely fix) the asymmetry.  I strongly recommend seeking out a board-certified Cosmetic Dermatologist or Plastic Surgeon for an in-person evaluation.

Botox for asymmetric smile? (Photo)

Answers (10)

Answer: Botox for Asymmetric Smile

Answer: Botox for Asymmetric Smile

Answer: Botox can help improve an asymmetric smile

Answer: Botox can help improve an asymmetric smile

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Botox

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

Botox for asymmetric smile? (Photo)

Answers (10)

Answer: Botox for Asymmetric Smile

Answer: Botox for Asymmetric Smile

Answer: Botox can help improve an asymmetric smile

Answer: Botox can help improve an asymmetric smile

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Botox

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