Puffiness above corners of lips - what would be the best treatment for this? (Photo)

Question

This is one of my biggest insecurities. I've done 1.5ml of lip filler and at first I thought it was migration, but looking back at pictures I noticed that I've had this even before any filler. My injector told me it's my upper lip muscle. What would be the best procedure to fix this? I feel like it makes my face look puffy and older. Thank you!

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Thank you for your question and for sharing your concern. Puffiness above the corners of the lips can be attributed to various factors, including muscle hypertrophy, fat deposits, or even skin laxity. Since you mentioned that this issue was present even before you had any lip fillers, it’s less likely to be filler migration and more likely related to your natural anatomy.

Here are a few potential treatment options that could help address this concern:

Botox/Dysport: If the puffiness is due to hypertrophy of the orbicularis oris muscle (the muscle around your mouth), small amounts of Botox or Dysport can help relax the muscle and reduce the appearance of puffiness.

Dermal Fillers: Strategic placement of fillers in surrounding areas can sometimes help balance the overall appearance, though this needs to be done cautiously to avoid exacerbating the problem.

Microneedling with RF (Radiofrequency): This treatment can help tighten the skin and reduce puffiness by promoting collagen production.

Laser Treatments: Fractional laser treatments can help improve skin texture and tighten the skin, which may reduce the appearance of puffiness.

Surgical Options: In some cases, a minor surgical procedure such as a lip lift or direct excision of the puffiness might be considered, especially if other treatments are not effective.

It's important to consult with a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon who can assess your specific situation and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan. They can provide a thorough evaluation and discuss the potential benefits and risks of each treatment option.

Puffiness above corners of lips - what would be the best treatment for this? (Photo)

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Everything you need to know about Dermal Fillers

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Puffiness above corners of lips - what would be the best treatment for this? (Photo)

Answers (1)

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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.