Treating the Lines Under the Mouth – The Marionette Lines With Botox, Fillers or Both
When people refer to looking sad or constantly being told to smile, they may notice facial expressions associated with the contraction of specific facial muscles.
The dynamics of facial expressions are influenced by the interplay of various facial muscles, including those that elevate and depress different parts of the face.
The “depressor anguli oris” muscle, also known as the DAO (Depressor Anguli Oris), is one of the facial muscles responsible for moving the corners of the mouth downwards. This muscle can create a frowning or sad appearance when it is overactive or when other facial muscles are not countering its effect effectively.
As we age, changes in facial anatomy and the gradual loss of skin elasticity can contribute to a downturned appearance of the mouth, making a person seem sad or displeased even when they’re not.
These changes are often associated with the natural ageing process, where collagen and elastin production in the skin decreases, leading to wrinkles, sagging, and other signs of ageing.
Botox (Botulinum toxin) and dermal fillers are popular cosmetic treatments used to address facial muscle dynamics and restore a more youthful appearance:
Botox (Botulinum Toxin)
Botox is a neurotoxin that temporarily paralyzes or weakens specific muscles by blocking nerve signals. When injected into targeted facial muscles, such as the depressor anguli oris, Botox can reduce the downward pull of these muscles, resulting in a lifted and more pleasant appearance around the mouth.
- Injection Process: Botox is administered through injections using an excellent needle. We will carefully inject small amounts of Botox into the DAO muscle, which is located near the corners of the mouth. The injections are usually quick and relatively painless, often completed in minutes during a cosmetic procedure.
- Targeting the Depressor Anguli Oris Muscle: The Depressor Anguli Oris muscle pulls the corners of the mouth downwards, causing a frowning or sad expression. Botox temporarily blocks nerve signals to this muscle, preventing it from contracting or tightening. When the DAO muscle is relaxed and less active, the corners of the mouth can lift, giving a more neutral or slightly upturned appearance.
- Effect on the Corners of the Mouth: By inhibiting the contraction of the DAO muscle, Botox helps to counteract the downward pull on the corners of the mouth. As a result, the corners of the mouth may appear slightly lifted and more in line with a neutral or somewhat upward expression. This can create a more pleasant and youthful look, reducing the appearance of a frown or downturned mouth.
- Overall Effect on the Lower Face: The effect of Botox on the DAO muscle can contribute to a subtle overall lift in the lower face. It can help balance and harmonize the facial muscles, resulting in a more refreshed and rejuvenated appearance. However, it’s important to note that the effects of Botox are temporary and typically last for a few months, after which a follow-up treatment may be needed to maintain the desired results.
Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers are substances (e.g., hyaluronic acid) injected into specific face areas to restore volume, fill wrinkles, and smooth out lines. Fillers can be strategically placed around the mouth to lift and support sagging tissues, providing a more youthful and uplifted appearance. They can help soften the appearance of the depressor anguli oris muscle’s effect on the mouth’s corners, minimizing the formation of a downturned expression.
Ageing is inevitable, but at all times, we can help with a little Tweekment.
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