How to get rid of folds on face when smiling? (Photo)

Question

I usually avoid smiling because I don’t like how exaggerated these folds look in photos. Is there a way to get rid of them? I notice when I pull my skin back near my ears/jaw, then it is smooth when I smile. But I don’t need a facelift. It seems like a facelift would help and taut that skin. Are there other solutions?

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photo. The folds you’re referring to may be best treated by a combination of dermal fillers and RF microneedling. Hyaluronic acid dermal fillers can add subtle volume to the areas you’re referencing to provide a natural lift and reduce the appearance of the folds. RF microneedling treatments in this area can also tighten the skin and improve its quality and texture by stimulating your body’s natural elastin and collagen production. I recommend scheduling an in-person consultation with an experienced, board-certified facial plastic surgeon. They will be able to review your concerns and determine the best treatment option to help you achieve your aesthetic goals.

David Hansen, MD · Answer

From the photos, the Advanced MiniLift under local would give such great results and is so easy to undergo.  It fixes the jawline and neck quick and safely.  Never go under general if you can help it. Cost is on special currently for just $15,000 and is so worth it. It pulls the skin nice and tight and natural looking along the jawline/jowls areas.

Nima Shemirani, MD · Answer

Hi @marblepear. I recommend a combination treatment of dermal fillers and RF microneedling treatment like Morpheus 8.

Best of luck,

Dr. Nima

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

A combination approach would give the most improvement. Deep wrinkles and smile lines can be improved with a combination of Botox and/or fillers for the lines themselves and to build anatomical support with Sculptra for collagen building. Ultherapy is a great skin tightening device, but works best in combination with other treatments like J Plasma, RF treatments, lasers, microneedling/PRP, salt facials, Cosmelan for skin tightening and improve skin tone. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

From the photos, it appears that you have a rather common problem known as parallel laugh lines. I certainly agree that facelift surgery, especially at this stage, would be way overkill. At the same, don't be suckered in by the heavy advertising, marketing, and social media influencer-generated hype for the supposed benefits of this or that expensive, "next big thing" fraxel laser or RF device. The truth is, despite the assurances of Drs. Google & Instagram, that the hard science to support these expensive gizmo treatments lags woefully behind the hype to promote them. By contrast, employing the proper fanning injection technique, these kinds of parallel laugh lines can be quickly and easily treated with an appropriate low viscosity, cohesive HA filler. Treatment takes about five minutes in experienced hands, engenders little to no significant downtime, and the results are immediate. So, instead of expensive gizmos, consult with a reputable, experienced, board certified cosmetic dermatologist filler injector and best of luck.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You might do well with noninvasive radiofrequency skin tightening like Secret and fillers can be added for more volume.  The face will move when you smile.

David Nicholas Csikai, MD · Answer

Injections such as hyaluronic acid may help along with possible botox injections to decrease to animation although you wouldn't want to overdo it.

Cagil Meric Erenoglu, MD · Answer

Hi dear marblepear! 
Each of our smiling means the world. In fact, what we need most is to smile comfortably. You can get rid of fold on face when smiling with Lower Face Bulldog Aesthetics. The skin of your lower face (lower cheeks) has begun to sag. This is a simple surgical procedure that can be performed under local or general anesthesia, takes approximately 1.5 - 2 hours, and can return to normal life immediately after the procedure. Excess skin and tissues under the skin that causes sagging on your lower face is removed with a tiny incision made behind the ear. The hidden tiny incision scars will remain around ears will fade day by day and become almost invisible. It is permanent for almost 10 years because it is handled not only skin but also muscles, smas flaps and strong connective tissues under the skin. It will not change your apperance, your jawline will only gained definition with this process. Best regards.

David M. Kowalczyk, MD, MBA, FACS · Answer

Hi there! Thanks for the questions. This can be a tricky problem as the folds may be related to the pull of the smiling muscles. Some may advocate for Botox in those locations but it could alter the way you smile. A facelift may be too aggressive of an option. Morpheus8 RF microneedling may provide some toning to the skin, though the problem won't likely be corrected entirely. Threading may be an option, though the procedure is temporary, it's usually described as uncomfortable, and it can create scarring / dimpling within the skin. I wish I had better answers!

How to get rid of folds on face when smiling? (Photo)

Answers (9)

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