Downturned mouth corners can develop gradually as the face changes with age. For some people, the corners of the mouth begin to sit lower at rest, which can change the overall appearance of the lower face. There are several reasons this can happen, including changes in facial volume, skin quality, underlying facial support and the activity of the muscles around the mouth.
At The Cosmetic Skin Clinic, our experienced medical practitioners assess the whole lower face before recommending treatment, creating a personalised plan based on your individual facial anatomy and concerns.
What are downturned mouth corners?
The corners of the mouth, known anatomically as the oral commissures, are where the upper and lower lips meet. When these corners begin to point or pull downwards, they are commonly described as downturned mouth corners or a downturned smile. This may be subtle or more noticeable and can occur alongside other changes in the lower face.
What causes downturned mouth corners?
There is rarely one single cause. Several factors can contribute, including:
- Muscle activity: The depressor anguli oris (DAO) muscles run from the corners of the mouth towards the lower jaw. When these muscles are particularly active, they can contribute to a downward pull at the mouth corners.
- Loss of facial volume: Age-related changes in the cheeks and lower face can reduce the structural support around the mouth.
- Changes in collagen and elastin: As levels of these important skin proteins naturally reduce over time, the skin can become less firm and elastic.
- Changes in the jaw and lower face: Ageing can also affect the underlying bone, fat and soft tissues that help support the mouth and jawline.
Every face ages differently, which is why an individual assessment is important before deciding whether treatment is appropriate.
Downturned mouth corners vs marionette lines
Although they often appear together, downturned mouth corners and marionette lines are not the same concern. Downturned mouth corners describe the position or downward pull of the corners of the lips.
Marionette lines are lines or folds that extend from the corners of the mouth towards the chin and jawline. It is possible to have one without the other, although both can develop as the lower face changes over time.
If marionette lines are your main concern, visit our dedicated Marionette Lines page to explore the causes and treatment options in more detail.
How can downturned mouth corners be treated?
The most appropriate treatment depends on what is contributing to the appearance of the mouth corners. Following a consultation, your practitioner may recommend one treatment or a combination of approaches.
Wrinkle-relaxing injections
Where strong DAO muscle activity is contributing to a downward pull, wrinkle-relaxing injections may be considered. Treatment works by temporarily reducing the activity of selected muscles, which can help lessen the downward pull around the corners of the mouth.
Dermal fillers
Where changes in facial volume or structural support are contributing to the concern, dermal filler may be considered. Small amounts of filler can be strategically placed in areas of the lower face to provide support and improve facial balance. Rather than treating the mouth corners in isolation, your practitioner will assess surrounding areas such as the cheeks, chin and jawline to understand how they contribute to the overall appearance.
A combination approach
For some patients, more than one factor contributes to downturned mouth corners. In these cases, a carefully planned combination of treatments may be recommended. Your practitioner will explain the available options during your consultation and create a treatment plan tailored to your facial anatomy and desired outcome.
When will I see results?
Dermal filler results can be visible immediately, although the area should be allowed time to settle. Results from wrinkle-relaxing injections develop more gradually and are typically noticeable within 5-7 days, with results continuing to settle over the following two weeks.
Results vary between patients. Dermal filler can last approximately 9-18 months, depending on the product used, treatment area and individual factors. Wrinkle-relaxing injection results typically last around 4-6 months. Your practitioner will discuss expected results and maintenance with you as part of your personalised treatment plan.
Why Choose The Cosmetic Skin Clinic?
With over 25 years of heritage in medical aesthetics, The Cosmetic Skin Clinic is trusted for expert, patient-focused care. Our experienced, medically qualified practitioners take a personalised approach, carefully assessing your facial anatomy before recommending dermal filler, wrinkle-relaxing injections or a combination of treatments.
With safety at the heart of everything we do, our aim is to achieve subtle, natural-looking results tailored to you.
Transform your downturned mouth with our expert practitioners. Book your consultation here or give our team a call on 020 3319 3637.
Downturned mouth treatment near you
The Cosmetic Skin Clinic offers consultations and treatments for downturned mouth corners across our UK clinic locations. Our experienced medical practitioners will assess your concerns and recommend a personalised treatment plan based on your facial anatomy.
- London – 98 Harley Street, London, W1G 7HZ
- Buckinghamshire – 84 Rogers Lane, Stoke Poges, Buckinghamshire, SL2 4LF
- Bournemouth – Unit 1, The Old Sorting Office, 5 Albert Road, Bournemouth, BH1 1AX
- Lymington – 6 The Mews, 41-43 Gosport Street, Lymington, Hampshire, SO41 9BB
- Northampton – 82 Billing Road, Northampton, NN1 5DF
Find your nearest clinic and book a consultation with our expert team.
