The downturn of the mouth, often referred to as “marionette lines” or “oral commissures,” is a common concern related to facial ageing. This condition is characterized by the appearance of lines or creases that extend downward from the corners of the mouth, giving the impression of a sad or drooping expression. Several factors contribute to the development of a downturned mouth, including:
Ageing and Collagen Loss:
- As we age, the skin loses elasticity, and a decrease in collagen production can contribute to the formation of creases and sagging around the mouth.
Gravity and Tissue Descent:
- Gravity plays a role in the descent of facial tissues over time, leading to a loss of volume and skin laxity around the mouth area.
Smoking and Sun Exposure:
- Lifestyle factors such as smoking and prolonged sun exposure can accelerate the ageing process and contribute to the breakdown of collagen and elastin in the skin.
Several cosmetic procedures can help address the downturn of the mouth and restore a more youthful and lifted appearance:
Facial Augmentation Procedures:
- Hyaluronic acid-based facial augmentation procedures, such as Juvederm or Restylane, can be dosed into the lines around the mouth to add volume and lift the skin.
- Fillers can help soften marionette lines and provide a more rejuvenated appearance.
Face Augmentation (intradermal shots):
- Subcutaneous administration can be used to relax specific muscles around the mouth, reducing the pull of muscles that contribute to a downturned mouth.
- shots are often used for dynamic age lines, which are formed during facial expressions.
Thread Lifts:
- Thread lifts involve the insertion of dissolvable threads beneath the skin to lift and tighten sagging tissues.
- This non-surgical procedure can provide a subtle lift to address the downturn of the mouth.
Facial Fillers for Volume Restoration:
Besides addressing specific lines, restoring volume to the midface with fillers can indirectly improve the appearance of marionette lines.