Non-surgical
Smile Lift
Non-surgical Smile Lift
Smile Makeovers with the Non-Surgical Smile Lift in NYC
A non-surgical smile lift is a simple, fast, and effective procedure to reduce the signs of aging in the perioral area (around the mouth). Using a combination of appropriate dermal fillers and BOTOX® Cosmetic, Dr. Levine can smooth perioral lines, relax the muscles that pull down the corners of the mouth, lift the corners of the mouth, enhance the lips, and give the smile a beautiful, youthful-looking “lift.” The non-surgical smile lift is a minimally invasive, outpatient procedure, with little to no patient discomfort or downtime.*
What areas can be treated by a non-surgical smile lift?
Over time, lax skin and a loss of soft-tissue volume can create significant signs of aging in the perioral area. A non-surgical smile lift can address many of the most common problem areas, including:
- Radial lip lines – Lines that extend vertically from the lips; also called lipstick lines or smoker’s lines.
- Lines around the oral commissure – Lines that extend from the corners of the mouth down toward the chin; also called marionette lines.
- Nasolabial folds – Lines that extend from the sides of the nose to the corners of the mouth; also called smile lines or parenthesis lines.
- Muscles that pull the corners of the mouth down into a persistent frown.
- Thinning and aging lips.
How is a non-surgical smile lift performed?
The non-surgical smile lift is customized for each individual patient. Various dermal fillers may be used alone or in combination to provide underlying structural support, while smoothing both superficial and deep lines around the mouth. Lip size and shape may also be enhanced with dermal fillers. Often, BOTOX® can be used to lift the smile by relaxing muscle activity that pulls the corners of the mouth downward. The use of BOTOX® together with dermal fillers provides synergistic effects that may extend the longevity of the fillers used. Dr. Levine will meet with you to discuss which techniques or combination of techniques will best suit your specific needs.
How are dermal fillers used for a non-surgical smile lift?
As we age, there’s a gradual depletion in stores of the natural proteins and sugars that keep the skin looking young and healthy. Over time, this can result in skin laxity, a loss of youthful volume, thinning lips, and the development of wrinkles, creases, and deep folds in the perioral area. There are a variety of dermal fillers that may be injected into problem areas in order to help replace lost volume, enhance the lips, and smooth lines and wrinkles. Depending on your specific needs, Dr. Levine may use a combination of hyaluronic acid fillers (such as Restylane®, Juvéderm®, and Perlane®) and volumizing agents (such as RADIESSE® and Sculptra®) to help create a natural-looking, non-surgical smile lift.
How is BOTOX® Cosmetic used for a non-surgical smile lift?
Muscle activity in some people can cause the corners of the mouth to be drawn downward into a persistent frown. BOTOX® Cosmetic is a natural, purified protein that can be used to temporarily relax muscles by blocking nerve impulses. To help create a non-surgical smile lift, BOTOX® is injected into the depressor anguli oris muscle, which is the muscle associated with frowning. When the nerve signals are blocked to this muscle, the muscle will relax, releasing the downward pull and creating a more natural appearance.
Who is a good candidate for a non-surgical smile lift?
A non-surgical smile lift may be appropriate for people who want to reduce the signs of aging around the lips and mouth without surgery or downtime.* A non-surgical smile lift provides temporary, but effective improvement. For those seeking a longer-lasting, more dramatic lift, a facelift or mini facelift procedure may be more appropriate. Dr. Levine will gladly meet with you to assess your condition and determine whether you are a good candidate for a non-surgical smile lift.
How long will the results last from a non-surgical smile lift?
While a non-surgical smile lift cannot stop the aging process, it can provide outstanding results that last for months. The duration of results will vary, depending on which techniques are used. The results from BOTOX® injections typically last up to 4 months, while dermal filler treatments may last from 6 months to a year or more, depending on the specific fillers used.*
How can I prepare for a non-surgical smile lift?
During your initial consultation, Dr. Levine will thoroughly discuss your goals and expectations, including possible risks and the best way to prepare for your treatment. Patients should avoid multivitamins, vitamin E supplements, aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (such as Advil and Motrin), and red wine for a week prior to treatment in order to minimize the risk of bleeding.
What should I expect during the non-surgical smile lift procedure?
The non-surgical smile lift procedure is performed on an outpatient basis in our offices. The procedure is simple, fast, and comfortable. Dr. Levine will carefully inject the chosen dermal fillers and BOTOX® Cosmetic into targeted treatment areas. Topical numbing cream or local injection blocks are offered when needed.
What should I expect after the non-surgical smile lift procedure?
Mild bruising and swelling is possible, but not always present, for a few days after treatment. Post-care instructions are given to each patient, and anti-bruising products are offered. Patients having BOTOX® treatment are asked not to touch the treated area for four hours after the procedure. After four hours, you may resume your normal activities.*