Anti-wrinkle injections work by relaxing muscles. When placed in the depressor anguli oris (DAO) muscles of the lower face, they can be used to lift the mouth corners.
Muscles responsible for a downturning mouth
The DAO muscles and depressor labii inferioris (DLO) are the two main muscle groups that cause downturning of the mouth. These muscles are involved in pulling down the lower lip and mouth corners, giving a sad appearance to your face.
Anti-wrinkle treatment to reduce mouth downturning
Anti-wrinkle product can be injected precisely into the DAO muscle to reduce its strength. This prevents downturning of the mouth corners. Generally, only small amounts of product are required, and the injections are usually placed in two locations to ensure the entire muscle is treated.
What are the complications of treating the DAO muscles?
When treating the DAO muscles with anti-wrinkle product, it is important to avoid affecting other nearby muscles. The main concern is if the product affects the DLI muscle which sits next to the DAO. If the DLI is affected by the treatment, this can cause a high-riding lower lip on the affected side. Fortunately, this side effect is rare in experienced hands, and if it does occur, will wear off in a few weeks.
How much will anti-wrinkle injections lift the mouth corners?
Downturning mouth injections typically achieve a subtle, yet pleasant lifting effect to the mouth corners. For a more pronounced result, you should consider combining downturning mouth injections with dermal fillers to the mouth corners and marionette folds.
