Smoker’s lines, also known as lip lines or perioral wrinkles, are the vertical lines that form around the mouth due to aging, smoking, sun exposure, or repetitive lip movements like drinking from a straw. Botox is one of the treatments used to reduce the appearance of these lines.
How Botox Treats Smoker’s Lines:
Botox (botulinum toxin) works by temporarily relaxing the muscles around the mouth that contribute to the formation of these wrinkles. By relaxing these muscles, the repetitive movements that cause the lines are reduced, allowing the skin to smooth out.
Botox for Smoker’s Lines – What to Expect:
•Procedure: Botox is injected in small amounts around the upper lip. The procedure is quick, typically taking 10-15 minutes.
•Effectiveness: Botox is most effective for dynamic wrinkles (those caused by muscle movement) rather than static wrinkles (those present at rest). For deeper, static wrinkles, combining Botox with dermal fillers may be necessary to restore volume and smooth the skin.
•Results: The effects typically start to show within 3 to 5 days after treatment and last for 3 to 6 months.
•Recovery: There is minimal downtime. Mild swelling or bruising may occur but usually resolves quickly.
•Risks: Since the injections are near the mouth, there is a risk of affecting the natural movement of the lips, which could cause a slight imbalance in movements, especially while speaking or eating. This risk can be minimized with an experienced injector.
If you’re looking for smoother, more long-lasting results, some patients may also combine Botox with fillers like hyaluronic acid or laser treatments for comprehensive rejuvenation.
