Guide to Downturned Mouth Corners

By Dr. Aaron Stanes

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The subtle curvature of our lips plays a significant role in conveying emotion. Downturned mouth corners, characterized by a downward slant at the lateral edges of the mouth, can inadvertently project an expression of sadness, fatigue, or seriousness, even when one’s emotional state is contrary. This aesthetic concern arises from a confluence of anatomical changes associated with aging and muscular activity. Understanding the underlying mechanisms contributing to this phenomenon is the first step towards exploring effective solutions. In this informative guide, we will delve into the primary causes of downturned mouth corners and examine the evidence-based non-surgical interventions available to subtly lift and harmonise the lower facial features, ultimately contributing to a more balanced and approachable expression.

 

What causes a downturned mouth?

Downturned mouth corners are caused by;

  • Overactivity of the depressor anguli oris (DAO) muscle. This muscle attaches to the mouth corners and pulls them down. It often gets stronger with age.
  • Loss of facial volume along your chin and jawline
  • Sagging skin
  • Decreasing skin collagen

Downturned mouth corners can leave you looking tired, angry and unhappy, and are a common sign of ageing.

 

What is the DAO muscle?

The DAO (depressor anguli oris) muscle is located at the front of your jawline and attaches to your mouth corners. Its pulls your mouth corners down when speaking and making certain facial expressions.

With age, the DAO muscles become hyperactive, causing your mouth corners to constantly pull down. This gives you an angry or unhappy expression.

Downturned mouth injections are an effective treatment option to relax the DAO muscles and lift your mouth corners.

 

How does the DAO muscle cause a downturned mouth?

The DAO (depressor anguli oris) muscle causes a downturned mouth by pulling down on the mouth corners.

The DAO attaches from the jawbone to the mouth corners. When it contracts, it draws the mouth corners down and out, creating a sad appearance.

 

How do downturned mouth injections work?

Downturned mouth injections relax the DAO (depressor anguli oris) muscles. The DAO muscles pull your mouth corners down and out. By relaxing the muscles, we can lift your mouth corners.

 

Should I get fillers or anti-wrinkle for downturned mouth?

Downturned mouth corners result from a combination of sagging skin, and a hyperactive muscle known as the depressor anguli oris.

Dermal fillers restore facial volume, which can improve sagging mouth corners caused by volume loss.

Anti-wrinkle injections relax the DAO muscles, addressing one of the key causes of downturned mouth corners.

Collagen stimulation can prevent downturned mouth corners by slowing skin sagging.

 

How do neuromodulators help downturned mouth corners?

Neuromodulators work by temporarily blocking the nerve signals to the DAO muscles. This relaxation weakens the downward pull, allowing the natural upward action of other facial muscles to become more prominent, resulting in a subtle lift of the mouth corners.

 

How do dermal fillers help downturned mouth corners?

Dermal fillers add volume to the area along the marionette lines and at the corners of the mouth. This added support can help to lift the downturned corners and soften the appearance of the lines that contribute to the sad or tired look.

 

Searching for the best downturned mouth corner injections near me on Google?

The team at Cosmetic Connection are here to help. The first step is a consultation where we will assess your concerns, and determine whether injections for downturned mouth corners are right for you.

As part of our assessment, we may advise on various treatments options based on your circumstances and preferences to achieve the results you desire.

For more information, you may browse our downturned mouth corner service, which is a holistic approach to rejuvenating the lower face. It may involve various combinations of treatments that are prescribed based on your unique concerns, following a detailed consultation.

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