Down-Turned Mouth Treatment Auckland: Softening a Tired or Unhappy Resting Expression

A down-turned mouth is caused by the small muscles pulling the corners of the mouth downward being more dominant than the muscles that lift them, often alongside marionette lines and some loss of volume around the mouth corners. The result is a resting expression that can look sad, disapproving or tired regardless of actual mood. It is a normal variation in facial anatomy and muscle balance rather than a medical problem, and it tends to become more noticeable with age as volume loss adds to the effect.

It depends on whether muscle pull or volume loss is the bigger contributor to your particular mouth. Botulinum toxin relaxes the muscle actively pulling the corners downward, which suits mouths where that pull is the main issue. Dermal filler adds support and volume in the marionette lines and mouth corners, which helps where volume loss is contributing as much as, or more than, muscle pull. Many patients use both together, and Dr Patti Piper will recommend the right approach after examining your mouth at consultation.

Yes, when planned conservatively, which is Aesthetica's approach throughout. The aim of treatment is a mouth that sits in a more neutral, relaxed resting position, not a dramatically altered shape or an obviously treated look. Dr Patti Piper plans the dose and placement of botulinum toxin and filler carefully so the result reads as a naturally relaxed expression rather than an artificial one, and she will discuss realistic expectations honestly at your consultation before any treatment goes ahead.

Botulinum toxin for a down-turned mouth typically lasts around three to four months before the muscle pull gradually returns, similar to anti-wrinkle treatment elsewhere on the face. Dermal filler in the marionette lines and mouth corners lasts longer, generally one to two years depending on the product used. Because both effects fade gradually rather than suddenly, there is no need to rush into further treatment as soon as you notice the first signs of the effect softening.

Aesthetica treats a down-turned mouth at its clinic at 24 Rose Rd, Grey Lynn, just off Ponsonby Rd, with every treatment performed personally by Dr Patti Piper. Her surgical training and detailed knowledge of facial muscle anatomy inform how conservatively and precisely the muscle relaxant or filler is placed. Appointments are arranged personally by phone rather than online, so a proper consultation can take place before any treatment is planned.

Treatment is planned at a consultation with Dr Patti Piper, where your mouth and the surrounding muscles are examined properly to work out how much of the concern is muscle pull versus volume loss. She will explain honestly whether botulinum toxin, dermal filler, or a combination of the two will give you the more relaxed, neutral expression you are after. Call 021 66 55 33 to arrange a time; there is no online booking, so the right amount of time is set aside for you.