What can a 19-year-old do about these lines and shadows around her mouth? (Photo)

Question

I know that I am a generally attractive girl, which is why I hate this so much. I have shadows around my mouth like jowls, and when I smile I get lines around my mouth too. I dislike pictures of me because of this and I usually Photoshop these lines and shadows out. I know it may seem small but it makes a big difference to me. I'm considering buccal fat removal and a chin implant, maybe fillers if they would help. What are your opinions on procedures that would be best? Thanks.

John Mesa, MD · Answer

Fulness of the lower anterior cheek (area next to the corners of the mouth) is usually caused by fullness of the buccal fat pad. This is very common in patient with asian background. Additionally, if the patients have not adequate lateral cheek fullness the lower  face may sag causing "virtual excess of skin" near the mouth that could be confused with jowls and mouth shadows.Buccal fat removal is the plastic surgery procedure that helps to achieve a think face, specially in patients with asian features. If the patient has mild lower face skin sagginess, it is important also to undergo lateral cheek enhancement with soft tissue fillers like voluma at the time of the buccal fat removal to achieve a more chiseled face.

Edward J. Gross, MD · Answer

After reviewing your photos, it is apparent your mid face is very full. This is hereditary and weight loss will not help. You may benefit form a Chin Implant as well (a side photo would be helpful). The small pre-jowl (cheek shadow) is a result of the heavy mid face pushing the cheek mass forward. Buccal fat removal would help this quite a bit. Find a surgeon with expertise in this procedure for best results. Fillers are to be avoided with your anatomy as they often worsen the problem. Best,

What can a 19-year-old do about these lines and shadows around her mouth? (Photo)

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Everything you need to know about Buccal Fat Removal

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What can a 19-year-old do about these lines and shadows around her mouth? (Photo)

Answers (2)

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Everything you need to know about Buccal Fat Removal

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