I am unhappy with the appearance of my upper lip, especially when smiling. My gums are exposed and the sides of my lip curl under — more so on one side. Can this be corrected with filler only? I’ve been considering the lip flip, but I don’t like how unnatural mouth movement looks on some people and am scared of the side effects of Botox itself. Thanks for any advice!
2 photos
Answers (4)
From board-certified doctors and trusted medical professionals
MOST RECENT
April 30, 2025
Answer: Filler for volume and symmetry, botox for showing less gum when smiling
Yes, it can. This problem can arise with the activation of your depressor septi nasalis muscles below your nose. When they activate with certain activities like smiling, this can pull the tip of your nose down. This can be treated with botox or surgically with the removal of the muscle.
Botox can help restore symmetry to an otherwise asymmetric face. Although, the issue is often a hyperactive muscle and in your particular case it sounds like the depressor anguli oris muscle. Targeting this muscle with Botox can deactivate the muscle and help give you the look that you want.
Thank you for your great question. Certain neuromuscular diseases, such as Myasthenia Gravis, for example, prohibit patients from receiving Botox treatments. It is recommended to speak with your physicians prior to starting any treatments such as Botox and subsequently after clearance be...