Botox for deep chin lines and sad mouthcorners
Deep chin lines, aka marionette, lines are vertical grooves that run from the corners of the mouth down to the jawline. Often, the corners of the mouth turn downward, giving a sad, dissatisfied, or scornful appearance.
Understanding the Muscles Involved
The main muscle responsible for downturned mouth corners and marionette lines is the Depressor Anguli Oris. This muscle attaches to the corners of the mouth, and when it contracts excessively, it pulls the mouth corners downward, creating a sad look and deepening marionette lines.
Botox Treatment for deep chin lines and Downturned Mouth Corners
Injection Technique
The patient is comfortably seated with the backrest elevated.
The treatment area is thoroughly cleaned.
The skin over the Depressor Anguli Oris muscle is marked with a skin marker to guide the injection. The injection point is about 1 cm above the jawline, aligned with the muscle.
Care is taken to avoid injecting too close to the chin (medially) to prevent weakening the Depressor Labii Inferioris muscle.
It is also important not to inject too close to the lips (superiorly) to avoid affecting the Orbicularis Oris muscle, which surrounds the mouth.
The injections are administered quickly, taking about 30 seconds.
Light pressure is applied to the treated area to minimize bruising.
The skin marker marks are wiped off.
Botox Dosage for Marionette Lines and Downturned Mouth Corners:
For women: 2 units per side
For men: 2-4 units per side
Aftercare Instructions
Minor bruising may occur but can be easily covered with makeup and typically resolves within a few days.
The effects of Botox usually become noticeable within 3-10 days and can last between 2 to 7 months, depending on the dosage and the patient's metabolism. Some people may metabolize Botox faster than others.
First-time patients may be asked to return after 2-3 weeks for a follow-up and possible top-up if needed.
Most patients choose to repeat the treatment once or twice a year.