Botox is one of the most versatile treatments available. Widely used for cosmetic and medical applications, the medication is largely considered safe and effective at helping to diminish and prevent wrinkles and lines caused by everyday muscle movement. Cosmetic injections of Botox are most frequently administered on the forehead, glabella, and brows. However, Botox has several other cosmetic applications outside of these areas. Seattle Plastic Surgery performs the best Botox for smile lines in Seattle and Tacoma.
What Are Smile Lines?
The smile lines are small lines that curve around the lips when smiling or laughing. Often confused with the larger nasolabial folds, smile lines—while genetic factors can make you more likely to develop them—are purely created through mouth movements. Treating this area requires a provider skilled in administering Botox because precision is necessary when injecting the muscles responsible for smile line formation.
Smile lines may only appear when making certain expressions or they may be a more permanent fixture. Temporary lines that appear with movement are called dynamic wrinkles, and wrinkles that are always present are known as static wrinkles. The state of the smile lines on the face will determine the best treatment.
Causes
As previously mentioned, the primary cause of smile lines is repeated mouth movements. But, other factors do contribute to smile line formation. For example, collagen production reduces with age, reducing how quickly and adeptly the skin can prevent creases. Additionally, sun damage or other environmental damage can contribute to a worsened smile line appearance.
Botox injections can help prevent smile lines from getting worse. Other treatments can help further prevent smile line formation and deepening. Using retinol can help address smile lines and it is important to maintain a good skincare routine. As with most cosmetic skin concerns, wearing sunscreen daily can help reduce and prevent their appearance.
Botox vs. Dermal Filler For Smile Lines
Botox and dermal filler injections can both effectively treat smile lines. In some cases, both may be combined, especially if treating the nasolabial folds too. Your injector will determine the right injectable treatment for you based on several factors including your age, medical history, skin quality, severity of the smile lines, and whether they are dynamic or static wrinkles. The table below can help you gain an understanding of whether Botox or filler will best treat your smile lines.
Botox |
Dermal Fillers |
|
|
The treatments share many similarities too. Botox and filler are both non-surgical treatments administered via injections. Generally, the treatment is well tolerated and not overly painful. Injected in the office, Botox and filler appointments can take under thirty minutes and require minimal downtime.
Botox Treatment For Smile Lines
A smile lines Botox injection appointment usually starts with a confirmation of the treatment and disinfection of the area. Numbing cream is available, but most people do not find Botox injections too painful. Before injecting, your provider will ask you to make specific expressions to gauge how the lines react and which muscle movements contribute most to the line formation.
After you relax your face, your injector will gently use a small needle to administer the Botox. Depending on your anatomy and the way the lines present, there may be a few injection sites on each side. Pinprick bleeding may occur, but this is easily wiped away and should not cause an issue.
Patients can return to work after their treatment. However, they should use caution and not partake in strenuous activities for the rest of the day. They may also consider toning down their skin routine for the night and only performing a cleanse and basic moisturizer. More harsh products can cause irritation and redness around the injection sites.
Benefits & Risks
Botox for smile lines comes with benefits and risks patients need to consider. As a non-surgical procedure, the risks tend to be fewer than for surgeries or more invasive treatments.
The benefits of treating smile lines with Botox injections may include:
- Reduce the appearance of smile lines
- Cease further progression of smile line development
- Does not fully limit expression or movement
- Addresses the direct cause of smile lines
- Non-surgical procedure that takes less than thirty minutes
- Minimal pain
- Little to no downtime
- Effective and safe treatment
- Easy to combine with other treatment areas or injections
- Performed by an expert injector at Seattle Plastic Surgery
There are not many risks associated with Botox smile line treatment. Complications are rare, but patients should have a full understanding of the procedure before undergoing the injections.
The potential risks of Botox injections for the smile lines may include:
- Infection
- Droopy lip or corners of the mouth
- Drooling
- Severe or prolonged side effects
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does Smile Line Botox Last?
The results of Botox injections into the smile lines generally last three to four months on average. This will vary between patients.
How Many Units Of Botox Are Used To Treat The Smile Lines?
Only a small amount of Botox is needed to treat the smile lines—usually about five to ten units per side. Your injector will likely start with a smaller dose and work up if needed, but patients with particularly thick skin or large facial muscles may require larger doses.
How Much Is Botox To Get Rid Of Smile Lines?
Smile line Botox varies in cost based on the number of units necessary and if it is combined with any other injections. The first twenty units of Botox start at $219 with thirty units starting at $299. From there, additional units are generally charged at a rate of $12 per unit.
The Best Botox For Smile Lines In Seattle
Seattle Plastic Surgery is located on First Hill in Seattle. With experienced injectors and comfortable facilities, Seattle Plastic Surgery is the Pacific Northwest’s top destination for aesthetic injections. Our providers also specialize in many less commonly performed Botox treatments such as Botox for TMJ and face slimming Botox.
To learn more and schedule a consultation, call us at 206-324-1120. Patients can also reach out online via chat, contact form, and Price Simulator.
STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?
Give us a call at 206-324-1120 or chat by clicking the icon in the lower left hand corner of your screen. Additionally, you can Contact Us by filling out the form above.
