Skip to Content Skip to Navigation

As seen on

logo-nine
logo-seven
5-1
logo-ten-hq_1_x85
logo-sunrise-2
4-1
logo-smh
9
11-1
13
Contour-Clinics-on-OK-Mag
logo-gq
ABC-Australian-Broadcasting-Corporation
14
hack-logo-home-link-thumbnail
7-1
Contour-Clinics-on-Costhetics-85-1
logo-2gb
logo-phalloboards-hq_1_x50_1_200x
8
logo-cleo
3-1
Ra2f01a936f19469a298d1727c5c9c739_x50
2-1
6-1
Subcision

What is a Downturned Mouth?

The corners of the mouth are where the upper and lower lips meet.

When lines or indents in the skin form around this intersection, it can create droopy mouth corners. Hence, making the impression of a downturned mouth.

DAO botox

What Causes a Downturned Mouth?

The main culprit behind the appearance of a downturned mouth is the Depressor Anguli Oris (DAO) muscle, located on either side of your mouth. The main job of the DAO muscle is to pull the corners of your mouth, so you can frown, look concerned or disapproving.

However, permanent drooping mouth corners through the DAO muscles may be caused by the following process:

  1. Over time, or due to individual muscle strength, the DAO muscles can become more active
  2. This increased activity can lead to a persistent downturn of the corners of the mouth, even when you’re not intentionally frowning
  3. This can create a perceived appearance of sadness or a generally negative expression, even when facial muscles are relaxed

Also, as we age, additional factors may add to the look of downturned mouth corners. This may include:

  • Mouth and cheek volume loss
  • Loss of subcutaneous fat (i.e. the fat directly underneath the skin) of this area
  • Loss of collagen and elastin in the skin, which causes sagging of the mouth corners
  • Genetic predisposition of a downturned mouth or recessed chin, which reduces support for the lower face
  • Natural gravitational pull to facial anatomy

These issues, combined with the continued pull of the DAO muscle, may exacerbate the downturned mouth appearance. In this case, it may be beneficial to consider non-surgical treatments to address your downturned smile.

How to correct a downturned mouth

Treatments for a downturned mouth typically involve targeting the DAO (Depressor Anguli Oris) muscle. By relaxing these muscles, it is possible to subtly elevate the corners of the mouth, contributing to a refreshed and more balanced facial appearance.

Comprehensive Consultation

During your initial consultation, a qualified cosmetic doctor or nurse carefully assesses your facial anatomy. During this time, they will discuss with you any potential factors that may contribute to your downturned mouth appearance. Notable factors can include:

  • Activity in specific muscles
  • Skin elasticity
  • Habitual facial expressions
  • Facial structure, especially around the mouth or chin

At Contour Clinics, we aim to maintain your comfort levels while creating tailored treatment plans to soften the mouth corners and surrounding lines. The end goal is to treat any downturned mouth concerns and restore a more youthful appearance to the mouth region.

When creating your customised treatment plan, your cosmetic doctor may recommend one of the following services for a downturned mouth:

Patient having Q Switch laser treatment at Contour Clinics to target a downturned mouth and mouth wrinkles

Muscle-Relaxing Treatments

Treatments for a downturned mouth typically involve targeting the DAO (Depressor Anguli Oris) muscle. By relaxing these muscles, it is possible to subtly elevate the corners of the mouth, contributing to a refreshed and more balanced facial appearance.

Visible results may appear within a few days of the procedure, with the mouth corners having a softer and more lifted expression. These results tend to last for several months, depending on individual features and conditions.

It’s generally advised to return for additional treatment around the 3-4 month period, in order to maintain results. 

Dermal Enhancements

Adding volume around the mouth corners in key areas supports the lips and provides lift. These volumising treatments address the volume loss and wrinkling of the skin that comes with age.

This service can also be used to treat marionette lines, which are the creases that run from the corners of the mouth to the chin. Treating marionette lines may provide greater elevation to your smile.

Supporting Cosmetic Treatments

If clinically indicated, your experienced cosmetic doctor may also suggest the use of supporting cosmetic services to help treat downturned mouth corners. Generally, those that aid in improving skin laxity and collagen production are suggested, such as:

Woman eligible for downturned mouth and wrinkle treatment at Contour Clinics

Downturned Mouth Treatment Eligibility

Individuals commonly seek advice about their downturned mouth from their late thirties onwards. This is because natural age-related changes in skin elasticity and repetitive facial movements can become more apparent during this time. Hence, contributing to the formation of downturned mouth corners.

However, you’re generally eligible for downturned mouth treatment if you:

  • Are at least 18 years of age
  • Are in good physical and psychological health 
  • Aren’t pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Don’t have any immune system conditions that may impact recovery
  • Have a severe case of skin laxity, since this may impact results
  • Have reasonable expectations of treatment results

It’s best to discuss your eligibility for treating a downward smile with our experts during the initial consultation. We will guide you to the treatment option that suits your needs and may provide the best results possible.

What is the Cost of a Downturned Mouth Treatment?

What is the Cost of a Downturned Mouth Treatment?

The cost of downturned mouth treatment at Contour Clinics depends on the type of treatment suggested by your doctor. With our tailored services, our prices tend to be bespoke and will be outlined in your initial consultation.

Additional factors that may impact the treatment costs include:

  • Your skin elasticity and collagen levels
  • The extent of your downturned smile
  • Your general facial features
  • Medical history
  • Overall aesthetic goals
  • And many more

If you’re interested in learning more about downturned mouth treatment costs, book your free consultation today.

The Contour Clinics Guarantee

At Contour Clinics, we’re committed to providing safe, ethical, and personalised cosmetic care. Our experienced clinicians focus on delivering balanced, realistic outcomes tailored specifically to your needs.

Book your complimentary consultation today to discuss suitable cosmetic options and experience the patient-focused care that sets Contour Clinics apart. Individual results can vary, and our clinicians will guide you through what outcomes may be achievable for you.

  • Complimentary, obligation-free consultations with experienced doctors
  • Strict safety and hygiene protocols aligned with industry-leading standards
  • Advanced 3D photography to aid in a collaborative, comprehensive facial analysis
  • Products and technologies selected based on quality, safety, and efficacy
  • Medical-grade clinical environments thoughtfully designed for patient comfort and convenience

Frequently Asked Questions

AFTERCARE

Following your Downturned Mouth treatment, please adhere to the following guidelines to ensure optimal results and minimise potential side effects:

  • Avoid touching or massaging the treated areas for at least 4–6 hours after your treatment
  • Remain upright and avoid lying down for at least 4 hours following your procedure
  • Avoid strenuous exercise or intense physical activity for the first 24 hours after treatment
  • Avoid exposure to excessive heat, including saunas, hot tubs, or hot yoga, for 24 hours
  • Do not consume alcohol for at least 24 hours post-treatment to reduce swelling or bruising risk
  • Gently apply ice or a cool compress to the treated area if you experience mild swelling or discomfort
  • Avoid facial treatments, such as facials, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, or laser skin treatments, for at least two weeks
  • Minimise excessive sun exposure and always apply broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect your skin

If you experience any unusual or prolonged discomfort, swelling, or concerns, please contact us immediately.

CONTACT US

Name(Required)
Want an opinion, but can't make it in to the clinic? Upload an image of the area of concern for an assessment.
Accepted file types: jpg, jpeg, png, pdf, heic, Max. file size: 50 MB.
Would you like to keep updated with Contour Clinic's latest news?

Are you ready?

Contact us today


or call us on 1300 233 803