Can I get filler to improve my smile lines? (Photo)

Question

I am insecure about a crease I have by my mouth. It always bothered me since I was young. Am I able to use filler to get rid of it without it looking weird ? How much and what kind of filler should I get ?

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Yes, filler can often improve smile lines, but the key is treating the cause of the crease rather than simply filling the line itself.

From your photo and description, it looks like the crease near your mouth has likely been part of your natural facial anatomy for quite some time. That's actually common—some people are born with deeper folds due to their bone structure, facial fat distribution, and the way their muscles move.

The good news is that this type of crease can often be softened while still looking natural.

Rather than injecting a large amount of filler directly into the line, many experienced injectors will first assess whether the surrounding areas—such as the cheeks or the corners of the mouth—have lost support. Restoring that support can lift the tissues slightly and reduce the appearance of the crease without making the area look puffy.

For the area around the mouth, hyaluronic acid fillers are usually the preferred choice because they are soft, flexible, and can be adjusted if needed. The exact product depends on your anatomy, but commonly used fillers include those designed for moderate facial folds and contouring.

One of the biggest concerns patients have is looking "overfilled." Fortunately, that is usually avoidable with a conservative approach. It's often better to start with a small amount of filler, reassess after it settles, and add more only if necessary. This typically produces a much more natural result than trying to erase every crease in one treatment.

It's also important to remember that smile lines are a normal part of facial expression. The goal isn't to eliminate every line, but to soften them while preserving your natural movement and facial character.

Based on your photo, I do think you could be a good candidate for filler, and with careful placement, it's very possible to improve the crease without creating an unnatural appearance. A subtle treatment plan usually provides the most balanced and aesthetically pleasing outcome.

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

The kind of crease seen in the photo is known as a parallel laugh line, i.e. creases parallel to the sides of the mouth that form with smiling. Most often there are several on each side of the mouth. In any case, the use of a low viscosity, malleable, cohesive HA filler properly fanned beneath the crease can help to buttress the area and diminish its prominence with emoting. This is an advanced injection technique that should not be left to the hands of novice, inexperienced injectors accustomed only to the use of ordinary Juvederm or plain Restylane for treating regular smile lines. You would be wise to consult with an experienced, board certified cosmetic dermatologist filler expert. Best of luck.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

I would suggest Juvederm, in a low dose and carefully applied. A small amount of Botox done first would also be helpful.

Leonard Grossman, MD · Answer

When an individual contracts any muscle group on the face or body, there will be creasing of the skin. That does not mean that this creasing is present when an individual is at rest. Any kind of facial line should be addressed only when it is present while an individual is not smiling, or creating any kind of an unattractive muscle contraction. To determine if you need any treatment whatsoever, you need to submit a photograph of your face while at rest. I hope this helps and good luck from New York City Plastic Surgery. .

Can I get filler to improve my smile lines? (Photo)

Answers (4)

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