Can lip fillers help minimize a gummy smile?

Question

I've been told at my consultation that I was not a suitable candidate for botox to fix my gummy smile as i didn't have a very evident strong muscle above the lip area. I was recommended to do a oral surgery to remove some gum and raise the height on my upper teeth so my gummy smile would be fixed, however, I am not open to surgery right now. Would lip fillers be an alternative?

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Juvederm or Restylane would be a great option to help shape your lips, its temporary and usually lasts 8-12 months, Its best you seek a reputable, board certified medical provider and schedule an in-person consult for a thorough evaluation

Mitchel Goldman, MD · Answer

I appreciate your question. A gummy smile can often be addressed using a combination of Botox and dermal filler injections. The Botox relaxes the facial muscles of the upper lip, while dermal fillers add volume to further enhance the appearance. It is difficult to determine whether this combination would work for you without seeing you in person. I encourage you to schedule an appointment with a board-certified dermatologist who has extensive experience in non-surgical lip enhancement. With an in-person assessment, you are likely to determine which treatment plan will work best for you.

Sonia Lamel, MD, FAAD · Answer

I would recommend a consultation with a board certified cosmetic dermatologist to determine if a neuromodulator would help.  Hyaluronic acid fillers can also be a wonderful treatment option to improve a gummy smile. Hope this helps!

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I would highly recommend getting a formal evaluation with and treatment from a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and expert in facial sculpting. Technique is the key to a successful lip augmentation with fillers, so you'll want to see someone meticulous. An experienced physician will be able to determine which filler, how much filler, and which technique will give you the subtle result you're looking for. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your excellent question.  Both Botox and dermal fillers can be used to minimize a gummy smile, with the best recommendations based on an in-person evaluation.

Kapil Saigal, MD, FACS · Answer

Botox is a great option for treating a gummy smile by relaxing one of the muscles of the upper lip. This is a great first line option before dental surgery. Lip fillers may also complement this treatment effectively. Be sure to discuss this with a board certified specialist prior to injection.

Sergio Verduzco Casillas, MD · Answer

Hello. Thanks for the question. Remember that the only way to give useful advice is after an in-person exam. The usual treatment for a gummy smile, or gingival smile, is Botox and fillers. In your case, you have the option of using fillers to add volume to your upper lip. The result is natural and can give you a self-confident smile. Consult a board-certified doctor experienced in injections in your area. Good luck!

Chase Lay, MD · Answer

Hello,Thank you for your question. It would be difficult to assess you without a photo. There are Neuromodulators and Fillers to treat a gummy smile. Make sure you consult with an experienced provider who can give you good treatment options.Sincerely,Chase Lay, MD

Shaun Patel, MD · Answer

Both lip fillers and Botox/Dysport can help with treat a gummy smile in the appropriate patient. It is hard to determine if you are a good candidate for treatment without seeing a photo or evaluating you in person.

John Frederick, MD · Answer

Hi and thank you for your question,
In general, yes, a combination of Botox and lip filler can treat MOST gummy smiles.  However, this is impossible to answer without seeing an example of your case specifically.  Some gummy smiles are caused by bony / dental positioning and no amount of Botox or filler would come close to improving.  Speak with a surgeon experienced in gummy smile treatment and I am sure you will have an excellent result. 
I hope this helps,
John Frederick