Drooping mouth corners can give the face a sad or angry appearance, which can affect self-esteem.
During the natural ageing process, the loss of collagen and elastin that controls how plump and firm skin is, leads to more skin laxity. This, combined with downward movement of facial fat as we age, leads to more skin sagging, especially around the mouth, which leads to the appearance of having drooping mouth corners. Another possible cause is overactivity of a muscle group in the lower face which pulls down the corners of the mouth.
The shadows which form from the corners of the mouth are known as marionette lines, and can become more prominent over time. People often seek treatment as they feel their face can appear older, more sad and tired looking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dermal fillers - At London City Skin Clinic, we can treat marionette lines using dermal fillers to restore youthful volume to the area around the mouth. Dermal fillers should also be reviewed in the context of the full face, as rebalancing supporting areas of the upper face can provide a good foundation for better outcome with marionette lines.
Botox – The Depressor Anguli Oris (DAO) muscle, which run from the corners of the lips down to the chin is responsible for the corners of the mouth turning down. If this muscle is very active, this can be treated using Botox to relax the muscle, and this should only be done by an advanced practitioner.
Dermal fillers – From £250
Botox – From £205