If I have deep wrinkles and lines around the mouth, how do I fix them?

I really wish this was a “one size fits all kind of thing,” and… I would love it if there was just one thing that would truly solve this problem. Here are some things to consider and a combination of a filler like Juvederm, or Restylane Silk, a whiff of Botox and lasers work best if the lines are deep.   Microneedling may help a little with fine lines but it won’t do much for deeper wrinkles.

This area is complex so here’s what to think about:

• The muscles around the mouth that cause you to purse your lips, like sipping through a straw, are very strong on some people. The small amount of Botox/Dysport tends relax these muscles and prevents as much contraction. Too much Botox/Dysport though and you’ll feel like you can’t move your mouth normally – it needs to be done carefully;
• Why the filler?   It’s because, with aging, we gradually lose bone, fat, and dermis (skin) and that also aggravates lines.  The filler, if done well should support around the lips and can also provide support in the actual lines to plump them out.  Too much and your lips will look bloated and ducky. More on how to get a great filler treatment here.
• For deeper wrinkles, the CO2 fractionated laser and some erbiums are best for collagen stimulation and to reverse the sun damage on the surface of the skin.

Ideally, you would consider all three for best results at 64.

Hope this helps,  Dr. I