Heaviness around my lips/mouth, causing lines when I talk or smile (photos)

Addressing concerns about heaviness and lines around the mouth at a young age can be effectively managed with several cosmetic treatment options. Here are some suggestions that might help:

Botox: As you mentioned, Botox can be used to relax the depressor anguli oris (DAO) muscle, which may help lift the corners of the mouth and reduce the appearance of lines. It's a common and effective treatment for dynamic wrinkles caused by muscle movement.

Dermal Fillers: Fillers can add volume and support to areas around the mouth, potentially reducing the appearance of lines and heaviness. Hyaluronic acid fillers are often used for this purpose and can provide a more youthful contour.

Lip Flip: A small amount of Botox can be injected into the upper lip to create a subtle "lip flip," which can reduce the appearance of lines and improve lip contour.

Microneedling or Laser Treatments: These procedures can stimulate collagen production, improving skin texture and reducing fine lines over time. Fractional laser treatments or radiofrequency microneedling can be particularly effective.

Skincare Routine: Incorporating retinoids and peptides into your skincare routine can help improve skin elasticity and reduce fine lines over time.

Consultation with a Specialist: It's important to consult with a dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon to discuss your specific concerns and goals. They can provide personalized recommendations and ensure that any procedure is appropriate for your needs.

Consider discussing these options with a qualified professional to determine the best treatment plan for your situation.

Hi!
This is a great question! Neuromodulator treatment for the DAO can work well in conjunction with fillers to support the perioral region, as too much lip filler in the lips can cause an imbalance on the surrounding structures, which seems to be the case here. An alternative option is to dissolve some of the lip filler, as there seems to be some migration above the lip border.