DOWNTURNED SMILE
A downturned smile can be caused by overactivity of the depressor anguli oris (DAO) muscles, which pull the corners of the mouth downward.
Small amounts of botulinum toxin can be used to reduce excessive DAO activity, helping soften the downward pull and allowing the corners of the mouth to sit in a more neutral, balanced position.
The treatment does not add volume to the lips or change facial structure. Its purpose is to improve the muscular balance around the lower mouth for a subtle, natural-looking result.
Expected Results
Downtime
Longevity
A softer, more uplifted smile with improved lower-face balance.
Minimal. Mild redness, swelling or bruising may occur and usually settles within a few days.
Results typically last 3–4 months.
At Glance
How does it work?
Targets the DAO muscle
The depressor anguli oris is the primary muscle responsible for pulling the corners of the mouth downward. In some clients, excessive DAO activity creates a persistently downturned or tired-looking expression.
Reduces downward muscular pull
Small, precisely placed doses of botulinum toxin temporarily reduce the contractile activity of the DAO.
Restores muscular balance
Once the downward pull is softened, the opposing muscles that elevate the mouth corner are less restricted, allowing the corners of the mouth to sit in a more neutral or subtly lifted position.
Preserves natural expression
The treatment is designed to rebalance lower-face muscle activity rather than immobilise the area completely, so the aim is a subtle change while maintaining normal facial expression.
FAQ
Your questions, answered
Understanding treatment options and expected outcomes.
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What is downturned smile treatment? Downturned smile treatment is an advanced injectable procedure that uses small amounts of botulinum toxin to relax the muscles that pull the corners of the mouth downward, creating a softer and more uplifted smile.
What causes a downturned smile? A downturned smile is often caused by overactive depressor muscles around the mouth, which pull the mouth corners downward. Ageing, loss of facial support and genetics can also contribute to this appearance.
When will I see results? Initial results usually begin to appear within 3–7 days, with the full effect developing after approximately 2 weeks.
How long do the results last? Results typically last 3–4 months, depending on your individual muscle activity.
Is there any downtime after treatment? Downtime is minimal. Mild redness, swelling or bruising at the injection sites may occur but usually resolves within a few days.
Can downturned smile treatment be combined with other treatments? Yes. Downturned smile treatment is often combined with marionette line filler, chin treatment, Nefertiti Lift or other facial rejuvenation procedures to improve lower-face harmony and achieve natural-looking results.
