Fairly deep and long vertical lip lines at 43, what are my options?

Vertical lip lines are a common aging problem. These lines are attributed to both the muscle around the mouth moving the skin (smoking and drinking through straws can increase this muscle activity and formation of lines) and natural thinning of the skin in this area as we age. Accordingly, the combination of just a few units of Botox and a dermal filler works very well to address this issue. Vobella, one of the newest fillers in the Juvederm family is an excellent choice to soften these lines without adding to much volume or fullness. 

ironeye.  I appreciate your problem and several options are available.  If the lip lines are superficial, a light chemical peel utilizing 35% TCA can work well.  Fillers are another option.  Be sure to consult with a board certified plastic surgeon. Good luck!

Dear iron eye:The lines you describe on the upper (and sometimes lower) cutaneous lip can fo4m for several reasons. Smoking certainly can contribute, even if for a relatively short time, as can chronic sun exposure.  Also, if you have a very strong perioral muscle, which purses the lips, deep lines can form over time.Of all the treatments available for this, I have found Ultherapy to be the most effective. I sometimes perfi4m Microneedling with PRP as well, which is very helpful.I think it is important to have treatments such as these which will permanently improve the problem. A lip filler can be helpful, especially if the lips are thin and have lost volume, and/or if you have lines crossing the vermillion border. Certain fillers injected directly into the lines or across the upper lip can smooth them. However, one must be careful to avoid creating the look of a fat upper lip, a sort of Homer Simpson appearance, which can be difficult, especially if the upper lip is lions.This evening I am having an open house where I will explain Ultherapy, offer complimentary consultations, and offer an opportunity to book a lip filler along with a free Ultheraoy treatment to lip lines.All the best, Dr. Clark

Thank you for your question.  Vertical lip lines are a common problem and very challenging to treat.  They are caused by continuous movement of the underlying facial muscles, thinning skin, age-related volume loss, sun damage and smoking.  I find that a combination of botox and filler works best.  Volbella would be a great choice of filler.  Please be sure to see an expert for an in-person consultation to fully discuss your concerns and your goals and expectations in order to determine the best treatment plan.  Hope this helps and best wishes! 

Hi there, and thank you for your question. Vertical lip lines are often caused from activity of the underlying mouth muscle (orbicularis oris). Over time, this muscle movement 'crinkles' the overlying skin, resulting in vertical lines. There are a number of treatment options for these types of lines including a very small amount of Botox as well as soft tissue fillers. In addition, certain laser procedures can assist in smoothing these lines. However, a consultation with a qualified physician in Ottawa would be advised to discuss the risks and benefits of each option. All the best.

Lines in the face can be caused by sun damage, thinning skin, smoking, etc..  Every patient is different and can have different causes for the lines.  The treatment will vary as well.

Lip lines are very common as we age and previous history of smoking and heredity also play a part.  There are several tools that we have in our tool belt to address this issue.  The first being some laser treatments to this area that are very well tolerated with little down time and lead to permanent results.  Other options include fillers that are formulated specific to this area and some sprinkles of botox there as well.  Our goal is the most natural look possible.  Individual consultation with our highly trained injectors  will get you on the right path.