Age 36 - are these beginning marionette lines & could they be fixed? (Photos)

Question

I am bothered by this downward turn of my skin next to my mouth corners. Are these beginning marionette lines? I am 36. How could these be fixed? On a side note, I also have this slight nasolabial fold.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I recommend fillers to soften the nasolabial folds themselves and also lift around the mouth and cheeks to build underlying anatomical support. In our practice we combine Sculptra with other fillers "layered" on top and lasers, skin tightening treatments such as Thermage, Fractora, and Renuvion (J Plasma), thread lifting,  and peels to get the most conservative, natural look. I suggest seeing a facial sculpting expert for a formal consultation. Best, Dr. Emer

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

Hello, and thank you for providing photos along with your question. Based on these images you do appear to show early signs of marionette lines, and they may become more prominent with age. Fortunately, marionette lines can be addressed by injectables. Botox, for instance, is an effective treatment for relaxing the muscles that pull down the corners of the mouth, while dermal fillers can add volume to the mid and lower parts of the face, reducing the appearance of marionette lines. Combining these injectables can create a liquid facelift and help achieve the best results. To learn more about your options, I recommend scheduling an in-person consultation with a reputable board-certified facial plastic surgeon, particularly one with extensive experience with injectables. Your surgeon can assess your skin quality, customize the best treatment plan, and ensure the best possible results.

Marc Polacco, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Given your age and the pictures, most likely fillers will be your best treatment option. They help by adding volume and reducing shadowing. I hope that helps, and all the best.
-Dr. P

William C. Harris, MD · Answer

Hi,
The slight shadowing you see at the corners of the mouth going downwards and from nose to corners of the mouth are minimal from what I can tell. Over time, these areas do deepen and dermal fillers are always an option for helping to diminish these shadows. There are several types, but the main class is hyaluronic acid fillers, which offer an immediate change and last about 9-12 months for most people. A specialist such as a well trained facial plastic surgeon offers these fillers should you choose to try these down the road. Make sure to do your research when choosing a provider and I hope this helps answer your question.

Maria Chuquer, MD, FRCPC · Answer

Hello there! You may benefit from volume replacement with dermal fillers in cheek area to soften those issues, followed by very carefully placed fillers on the marionette lines and/or corners of the mouth. The best is always to consult a certified cosmetic doctor in your area so you can be examined in person. Best of luck!

Age 36 - are these beginning marionette lines & could they be fixed? (Photos)

Answers (8)

Answer: Marionette Lines

Answer: Marionette Lines

Answer: Addressing volume loss in midface

Answer: Addressing volume loss in midface

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Everything you need to know about Dermal Fillers

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

Age 36 - are these beginning marionette lines & could they be fixed? (Photos)

Answers (8)

Answer: Marionette Lines

Answer: Marionette Lines

Answer: Addressing volume loss in midface

Answer: Addressing volume loss in midface

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Dermal Fillers

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