how to get rid of marionette lines

Marionette lines, which are grooves or furrows that run from the corners of the mouth to the jawline, can give someone a naturally angry or sad appearance, even when their face is at rest. Without the proper treatment, marionette lines continue to deepen and worsen over time.

Fortunately, Dr. Alexander Ereso can treat marionette lines using non-invasive, non-surgical methods. Patients that are interested in softening these lines and attaining a more cheerful expression should read on as the plastic surgeons discuss the causes and treatments of marionette lines.

Causes of Marionette Lines

Marionette lines, also known as oral commissure lines, occur when the depressor anguli oris muscle, or DAO muscle, pulls down the corners of the mouth, causing noticeable lines and a sad expression. To compound the problem, as the body ages, its supply of collagen gradually breaks down, which diminishes facial volume and elasticity. This loss of elasticity and volume makes facial wrinkles and folds appear more prominent.

Treating Marionette Lines

Usually the first line of defense against marionette lines is to use cosmetic injectables, which provide almost-instant results with little downtime.

Botox® Cosmetic is designed to temporarily relax facial muscles, in turn causing the overlying wrinkle to soften. Small amounts of Botox are injected into the DAO muscle to relax it, virtually erasing the marionette lines. The Botox injections also create a slight lift in the area around the mouth for a more pleasant facial expression.

Dermal fillers temporarily add shape and volume to the treated area. Small amounts of these products are injected into the marionette lines, "filling out" the volume of the skin from the inside out and plumping up the wrinkles so they are hardly noticeable.

Botox and fillers are most appropriate for mild to moderate marionette lines. The effects last three to six months or more, depending on the product. Thus, regular treatments are needed to maintain the effects.

Patients over age 50 who have very deep, long marionette lines may actually need surgery, as the lines may be too deep to improve without pulling the skin back with a facelift.

Contact Pearl-Ereso Plastic Surgery Center

For more information about softening marionette lines and achieving a more pleasant facial expression, Dr. Ereso invites you to contact Pearl-Ereso Plastic Surgery Center today by calling (650) 964-6600.