What are these weird chin lines when I smile called? (Photo)

Question

Hello, I'm 20 years old and noticed that whenever I have smile in photos I get this weird chin lines like almost a fat deposit or protruding and I'm not sure if there's a term for it already.I've looked everywhere online for similar images but cannot seem to find it. I don't know if it has to do with excess face fat, but I am currently weighing 104 lbs (I am 5ft). I'd like to know if this is something I'm doomed to have to fix with cosmetic surgery or what alternatives I have for it.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

A combination approach would give the most improvement. Deep wrinkles and smile lines can be improved with a combination of Botox and/or fillers for the lines themselves and to build anatomical support with Sculptra for collagen building. Ultherapy is a great skin tightening device, but works best in combination with other treatments like J Plasma, RF treatments, lasers, microneedling/PRP, salt facials, Cosmelan for skin tightening and improve skin tone. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photos. Repetitive muscle movements, such as smiling, can cause the lines you’re referring to. Botox injections can target the muscles causing these lines and reducing their activity to diminish their appearance. Administering Botox to the masseter muscle can also slenderize the jawline and provide a slimming effect to the lower third portion of the face. 
I recommend scheduling an in-person consultation with an experienced expert injector. They will be able to assess your concern and help you decide on the best treatment option.

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

This requires a more detailed “in person” consult than what can be provided through virtual means. If your goal is to get a smooth uninterrupted jaw line from the tip of your chin to the back of your mandibular angles, one has to see whether fixed folds have to be surgically released and if volume has to be added adjacent to the lines and into concavities or if excess soft tissue has to be reduced.

As always, consult with a board certified plastic surgeon. I hope this helps and good luck.

H2T Skin and Laser Center - Norwood · Answer

Hello! You may have tightness in your chin muscle (mentalis) that is more obvious when you smile. I would suggest being evaluated for a possible off-label treatment of Botox in the chin area. Hope that helps!

Amir Mortazavi, MD · Answer

Botox/Dysport injections in the chin muscles, such as the mentalis muscle, can assist in providing the chin dimple a smoother, less wrinkled appearance. The goal of this procedure is to inject small, strategically positioned dosages of botulinum toxin into the chin muscles to create a controlled weakness.

What are these weird chin lines when I smile called? (Photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Chin irregularities

Answer: Chin irregularities

Answer: These are caused by a hyperactive mentalis muscle.

Answer: These are caused by a hyperactive mentalis muscle.

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

What are these weird chin lines when I smile called? (Photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Chin irregularities

Answer: Chin irregularities

Answer: These are caused by a hyperactive mentalis muscle.

Answer: These are caused by a hyperactive mentalis muscle.

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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.