Downturned Mouth Treatment - Treatment Options at Me Clinic Melbourne

Quick Summary

What causes downturned mouth corners:

• Natural ageing causing volume loss in the corners of the mouth
• Overactive depressor anguli oris (DAO) muscle pulling corners down
• Loss of collagen and elastin support in the perioral area
• Gravitational effects and repetitive facial expressions

Treatment options available:

• Non-surgical: Anti-wrinkle injections (DAO muscle relaxation), dermal fillers (corner lift), combination therapy, PDO thread lift
• Surgical: Corner lip lift surgery (commissuroplasty)

Expected results:

• Subtle elevation of mouth corners creating a more positive, rested expression
• Reduced appearance of marionette lines
• Timeline: Injectable results appear within 3-14 days; surgical results visible after swelling subsides (2-4 weeks)
• Duration: Anti-wrinkle injections last 3-4 months; fillers last 6-12 months; surgery provides long-lasting results (5-10+ years)

Cost range:

• Non-surgical: $300-$1,200 per treatment session
• Surgical: $3,000-$6,000
• Prices based on Me Clinic's transparent pricing policy

Next steps:

• Book free consultation at Me Clinic Melbourne
• Discuss customised treatment plan with experienced practitioners
• Review before/after gallery of similar cases
• Understand realistic outcomes and recovery timeline

Understanding Downturned Mouth Corners

What are downturned mouth corners?

Downturned mouth corners, sometimes called "sad mouth corners" or a "downturned smile," occur when the outer edges of your lips turn downward rather than sitting in a neutral or slightly upward position. This creates a permanent expression that can appear sad, tired, or unhappy—even when you're feeling perfectly content.

The condition isn't just about the position of your lips. It often involves the tissues around the mouth, including the chin and jawline. When the corners of your mouth turn down, they can create vertical lines or folds (marionette lines) that run from the corners of your mouth toward your chin, further emphasizing the downturned appearance.

Many people with downturned mouth corners report that others frequently ask if they're upset or tired, which can be frustrating when it doesn't reflect how they actually feel. This facial feature can significantly impact how others perceive your mood and age.

What causes downturned mouth corners?

1. Natural ageing

As we age, multiple factors contribute to downturned mouth corners:

• Collagen and elastin breakdown: These structural proteins provide support and elasticity to skin. Their gradual loss (starting in your 30s) causes skin to sag and lose its ability to maintain a lifted position.

• Volume depletion: Fat pads in the face redistribute and diminish with age. When volume is lost around the mouth and cheeks, there's less support for the corner tissues, allowing gravity to pull them downward.

• Muscle imbalance: The depressor anguli oris (DAO) muscle, which runs from the corner of your mouth down to your jawline, naturally pulls the corners of your mouth downward. As we age, this muscle can become overactive while the muscles that lift the mouth (like the levator anguli oris) weaken, creating an imbalance.

• Bone resorption: The underlying bone structure of the jaw gradually loses density with age, reducing the scaffolding that supports facial tissues.

2. Genetic factors

Some individuals are genetically predisposed to downturned mouth corners:

• Hereditary facial structure: You may have inherited a facial structure where your mouth corners naturally sit lower, even from a young age.

• Muscle attachment points: The way your facial muscles attach to bone and skin is determined genetically, which can influence whether corners tend to turn up or down.

• Skin characteristics: Thicker skin with more collagen naturally maintains structure better than thin skin, which is partially determined by genetics and ethnicity.

3. Lifestyle factors

Daily habits and environmental exposures accelerate the development of downturned corners:

• Sun exposure: UV radiation breaks down collagen and elastin, accelerating skin ageing around the mouth. Smokers often purse their lips, which deepens lines around the mouth.

• Smoking: Creates repetitive pursing movements and reduces blood flow to facial tissues, accelerating collagen breakdown.

• Repeated facial expressions: Constant frowning or pursing can strengthen the downward-pulling muscles over time.

• Weight fluctuations: Significant weight loss can reduce facial volume, while weight gain followed by loss can stretch skin elasticity.

• Poor dental health: Missing teeth or ill-fitting dentures can change the support structure around the mouth.

Who experiences downturned mouth corners?

Age patterns:

• Can begin appearing in your 30s and 40s as subtle changes
• Becomes more pronounced in your 50s and beyond
• Some individuals notice it as early as their late 20s due to genetic factors or muscle hyperactivity

Gender differences:

• Both men and women experience this equally
• Women often seek treatment earlier due to greater awareness and aesthetic concerns
• Men increasingly seek treatment as cosmetic procedures become more normalized

Contributing factors:

• Family history of early facial ageing
• Occupations or habits involving repetitive facial expressions
• High stress levels (leading to chronic tensing of facial muscles)
• Previous facial trauma or surgery

Why it matters

Beyond aesthetics, downturned mouth corners can have meaningful psychological and social impacts:

Social perception: Research shows that facial expressions influence how others perceive your emotions, approachability, and even competence. A downturned mouth may lead others to incorrectly assume you're unhappy, angry, or unapproachable—potentially affecting personal and professional relationships.

Self-image concerns: Many people feel frustrated that their facial appearance doesn't match their internal emotional state. This disconnect can affect confidence and self-esteem.

Ageing perception: Downturned corners are strongly associated with looking older and more tired than you actually feel.

When to seek treatment: Consider consulting with a cosmetic medicine specialist when downturned corners begin to bother you, affect how you're perceived by others, or don't reflect how you feel. There's no "right time"—treatment is appropriate whenever the concern becomes meaningful to you.

Treatment Options Comparison

Non-Surgical Treatments

1. Anti-Wrinkle Injections (Botox) for DAO Muscle

How it works: Anti-wrinkle injections contain botulinum toxin, which temporarily relaxes targeted muscles. When injected into the depressor anguli oris (DAO) muscle, it reduces the downward pull on the mouth corners, allowing the opposing muscles that lift the corners to work more effectively. This creates a subtle elevation of the corners and a more neutral or slightly positive mouth position.

Best for: Mild to moderate downturned corners caused primarily by overactive DAO muscles; patients wanting minimal downtime; those new to cosmetic treatments who want to try a reversible option first.

Procedure details:

• Procedure time: 10-15 minutes
• Downtime: None to minimal; you can return to normal activities immediately
• Pain level: Minimal discomfort; most describe it as a quick pinch
• Results appear: 3-7 days for initial effects; full results at 10-14 days
• Results last: 3-4 months, requiring maintenance treatments
• Cost range: $300-$500 per treatment session

Pros:

• Quick procedure with immediate return to activities
• No downtime required
• Reversible (effects wear off naturally)
• Low risk of complications
• Can be combined with other treatments
• Gradual, natural-looking improvement

Cons:

• Temporary results requiring ongoing maintenance
• Requires repeat treatments every 3-4 months
• Doesn't address volume loss
• Results may be subtle in severe cases
• Rare risk of asymmetry if not injected precisely

Ideal candidate: You have a functional downturned appearance caused by muscle activity, prefer gradual changes, and want to avoid surgical intervention.

2. Dermal Fillers (Corner Lift)

How it works: Dermal fillers (typically hyaluronic acid-based products) are injected directly into or around the corners of the mouth to add volume, provide structural support, and physically lift the corners upward. Strategic placement can also fill in marionette lines and create a smoother transition from the mouth to the chin.

Best for: Downturned corners with associated volume loss; deeper marionette lines; patients wanting immediate visible results; those seeking longer-lasting results than anti-wrinkle injections alone.

Procedure details:

• Procedure time: 20-30 minutes
• Downtime: Minor swelling and possible bruising for 1-3 days
• Pain level: Mild discomfort; topical numbing cream used; most fillers contain lidocaine
• Results appear: Immediate, though final settling occurs over 2 weeks
• Results last: 6-12 months depending on product and individual metabolism
• Cost range: $600-$900 per treatment session (typically 1-2mL required)

Pros:

• Immediate visible results
• Addresses both position and volume loss
• Can treat multiple concerns (corners + marionette lines) simultaneously
• Natural-looking when performed by experienced practitioners
• Reversible with hyaluronidase if needed
• Longer-lasting than anti-wrinkle injections

Cons:

• Temporary results requiring maintenance
• Higher cost per treatment than anti-wrinkle injections
• Risk of swelling and bruising for a few days
• Requires skilled injector to avoid unnatural appearance
• Possible asymmetry requiring adjustment
• Small risk of vascular complications (extremely rare with experienced practitioners)

Ideal candidate: You have volume loss contributing to downturned corners, want immediate results, and can accommodate minor downtime for initial swelling.

3. Combination Therapy (Anti-Wrinkle + Filler)

How it works: Many practitioners find the best results come from combining anti-wrinkle injections in the DAO muscle with strategic filler placement at the corners. The anti-wrinkle component relaxes the downward pull while the filler provides lift and volume—addressing both the functional and structural causes of downturned corners.

Best for: Moderate to significant downturned corners; patients with both muscle hyperactivity and volume loss; those seeking the most comprehensive non-surgical correction.

Procedure details:

• Procedure time: 30-40 minutes (both treatments in one session)
• Downtime: 1-3 days for filler-related swelling
• Results appear: Anti-wrinkle effects at 7-14 days; filler immediately
• Results last: Staggered maintenance (anti-wrinkle every 3-4 months, filler every 6-12 months)
• Cost range: $900-$1,200 per combined treatment session

Pros:

• Most comprehensive non-surgical correction
• Addresses multiple causative factors
• Synergistic effects create superior results
• Can be customized to individual anatomy
• Still non-invasive with minimal downtime

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost
• Requires ongoing maintenance of both components
• Slightly longer procedure time
• Combined risks of both treatments (though still very low)

Ideal candidate: You want the most effective non-surgical option, have both muscle activity and volume concerns, and are committed to maintenance treatments.

4. PDO Thread Lift (Corner Threads)

How it works: Polydioxanone (PDO) threads are medical-grade sutures inserted under the skin to provide mechanical lift. When placed at the corners of the mouth, they physically support and elevate the tissues. Over time, the threads stimulate collagen production before being naturally absorbed by the body (4-6 months), leaving behind improved tissue structure.

Best for: Mild to moderate skin laxity around the mouth; patients seeking collagen stimulation benefits; those who want longer-lasting results than injectables but aren't ready for surgery.

Procedure details:

• Procedure time: 30-45 minutes
• Downtime: 3-5 days for minor swelling and tenderness
• Pain level: Local anaesthetic used; mild discomfort during healing
• Results appear: Immediate mechanical lift; collagen benefits develop over 2-3 months
• Results last: 12-18 months (mechanical effect fades earlier; collagen benefits persist longer)
• Cost range: $800-$1,500 for mouth corner treatment

Pros:

• Longer-lasting than injectable treatments alone
• Stimulates natural collagen production
• Can be combined with injectables
• Mechanical lift provides support
• Minimally invasive with local anaesthetic only

Cons:

• More invasive than injectables
• Higher risk of temporary asymmetry
• Visible or palpable threads possible during initial healing
• Thread migration possible (rare with experienced practitioners)
• More downtime than injectables
• Results still temporary (though longer than injectables)

Ideal candidate: You have good skin quality with mild laxity, want collagen-building benefits, and seek results lasting longer than injectables alone.

Surgical Treatment

Corner Lip Lift (Commissuroplasty)

What it is: Corner lip lift, also called commissuroplasty, is a surgical procedure that permanently elevates the corners of the mouth. The surgeon removes a small crescent of skin just above each corner and precisely repositions tissues to create a lifted appearance. The incision is designed to hide within natural creases, making scars minimally visible once healed.

Best for: Severe downturned corners not adequately corrected with non-surgical methods; patients seeking permanent correction; those willing to undergo surgery and accept recovery time; realistic candidates after non-surgical options have been maximized.

Procedure details:

• Procedure time: 1-1.5 hours
• Anaesthesia: Local anaesthetic with sedation or general anaesthesia (depending on concurrent procedures)
• Hospital stay: Day surgery (go home same day)
• Recovery time: 7-10 days for social activities; 2-3 weeks for exercise; 3-6 months for final scar maturation
• Pain level: Moderate discomfort for first few days; well-controlled with prescribed pain medication
• Results appear: Initial results visible once swelling subsides (2-4 weeks); final results at 6-12 months after complete healing
• Results last: Long-lasting (5-10+ years); permanent tissue repositioning though natural ageing continues
• Cost range: $3,000-$6,000 (depending on complexity and if combined with other procedures)

The surgical process:

1. Marking: Before procedure, surgeon marks precise incision locations with you in an upright position
2. Anaesthesia: Local with sedation or general anaesthetic administered
3. Incision: Small crescent-shaped incisions made just above corners of mouth
4. Tissue removal: Calculated amount of skin and tissue removed
5. Repositioning: Mouth corners lifted to desired position
6. Closure: Precise layered closure with fine sutures to minimize scarring
7. Recovery: Compression and ice applied; detailed aftercare instructions provided

Recovery timeline:

• Days 1-3: Peak swelling and bruising; soft diet recommended; minimal talking
• Days 4-7: Significant improvement; sutures may be removed (or dissolvable)
• Weeks 2-3: Most swelling resolved; can return to social activities
• Weeks 4-6: Can resume all normal activities including exercise
• Months 3-6: Scars continue to fade and mature
• Month 12: Final aesthetic result achieved

Pros:

• Permanent correction of downturned corners
• Most dramatic and comprehensive improvement
• Addresses severe cases beyond non-surgical capability
• One-time procedure (no ongoing maintenance costs)
• Can be combined with other facial procedures
• Results improve confidence long-term

Cons:

• Invasive procedure requiring surgery
• Significant downtime and recovery period
• Permanent scarring (though designed to be minimal and well-hidden)
• Higher cost upfront
• Risks associated with surgery and anaesthesia
• Potential complications (infection, asymmetry, scarring, altered sensation)
• Results are permanent (difficult to revise if unsatisfied)
• Natural ageing continues (though starting from improved baseline)

Ideal candidate: You have severe downturned corners causing significant concern, have maximized non-surgical options without adequate improvement, are in good overall health, have realistic expectations, and can accommodate recovery time. You understand the permanence of surgical intervention and are committed to the decision.

Choosing the Right Treatment - Decision Guide

Consider non-surgical treatments if:

✓ You have mild to moderate downturned corners — Injectable treatments and threads provide excellent correction for less severe cases

✓ You prefer minimal to no downtime — Most non-surgical options allow immediate return to work and activities

✓ You want to try treatments gradually — Start conservatively and increase as needed; see how you respond before committing to more aggressive options

✓ You're not ready for surgery — Non-surgical approaches let you improve your appearance while you consider whether surgery might be right for you later

✓ Budget is spread over time — Smaller ongoing costs may be more manageable than a larger surgical fee upfront

✓ You want reversible options — Non-surgical treatments wear off naturally, and fillers can be dissolved if needed

✓ You have specific concerns — If primarily muscle-related, anti-wrinkle injections alone might be sufficient; if volume loss, fillers may be the answer

Consider surgical treatment if:

✓ You have severe or advanced downturned corners — Surgery provides comprehensive correction beyond what injectables can achieve

✓ You want long-lasting or permanent results — One procedure provides years of improvement without ongoing maintenance

✓ Non-surgical options haven't met your goals — If you've tried injectables and threads without satisfactory results, surgery may be the next step

✓ You can accommodate recovery time — You have 1-2 weeks available for initial recovery and can avoid strenuous activities

✓ You're willing to invest in a comprehensive solution — Higher upfront cost but no ongoing treatment expenses

✓ You've thoroughly researched and have realistic expectations — You understand what surgery can and cannot achieve

✓ You're in good health — Suitable surgical candidate without contraindications

Combination approach

Many patients achieve optimal results by combining treatments strategically:

Example 1: Foundation + maintenance

• Begin with corner lip lift surgery for permanent structural correction
• Maintain results with occasional anti-wrinkle injections if DAO muscle remains active
• Add fillers as needed for volume loss in surrounding areas as you age

Example 2: Non-surgical optimization

• Anti-wrinkle injections every 3-4 months for DAO muscle relaxation
• Dermal filler in corners every 9-12 months for volume and lift
• Consider PDO threads every 12-18 months for additional collagen stimulation
• This combination addresses muscle activity, volume, and tissue laxity simultaneously

Example 3: Staged approach

• Start with combination anti-wrinkle + filler treatment
• Assess results after 3-6 months
• If satisfied, continue with maintenance
• If improvement is insufficient, progress to thread lift or consider surgical consultation

Your Me Clinic practitioner will recommend the most appropriate approach based on:

• Severity of your downturned corners
• Contributing factors (muscle vs. volume vs. laxity)
• Your aesthetic goals and expectations
• Budget and maintenance preferences
• Available recovery time
• Overall facial harmony and proportion

What to Expect at Me Clinic

1. Initial Consultation (Free)

Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation where we take the time to understand you and your concerns:

Assessment process:

• Detailed examination of your mouth area and lower face
• Analysis of facial proportions and symmetry
• Evaluation of muscle activity, skin quality, and volume
• Assessment of how downturned corners interact with your overall facial aesthetics
• Photography for treatment planning and before/after documentation (with your consent)

Discussion:

• Your specific concerns and what bothers you most
• How downturned corners affect your confidence and daily life
• Your aesthetic goals and what you hope to achieve
• Your previous experience with cosmetic treatments (if any)

Medical history review:

• Current medications and supplements
• Previous cosmetic procedures
• Allergies (especially to local anaesthetics or hyaluronic acid)
• Medical conditions that might affect treatment safety or results
• Lifestyle factors (smoking, sun exposure, skincare routine)

Treatment education:

• Explanation of all suitable treatment options for your specific case
• How each treatment works, what to expect, and realistic outcomes
• Advantages and limitations of each approach
• Combination treatment possibilities

Setting realistic expectations:

• What treatments can and cannot achieve
• Typical results for your situation based on similar cases
• Timeline for seeing results
• Maintenance requirements and longevity

Transparent pricing:

• Detailed cost breakdown for each treatment option
• What's included in the quoted price
• Payment options and plans
• No hidden fees or surprise costs

Before/after gallery:

• Review cases similar to yours
• Understand the range of outcomes achievable
• See examples of natural-looking results

Questions welcomed:

• No question is too small or insignificant
• Take time to ensure you fully understand
• Take information home to consider

2. Treatment Planning

Once you've decided to proceed, we develop your personalized treatment plan:

Customized approach:

• Treatment plan tailored specifically to your anatomy and goals
• Strategic planning for optimal, natural-looking results
• Consideration of facial balance and harmony
• Conservative approach that can be built upon if needed

Timeline explained:

• Number of treatment sessions required
• Spacing between treatments
• When to expect results
• Maintenance schedule for ongoing treatments

Pre-treatment instructions:

• Medications to avoid (blood thinners, anti-inflammatories) if medically appropriate
• Skincare adjustments before procedure
• What to do on treatment day
• Arranging transport if needed (for surgical procedures)

Cost confirmation:

• Final pricing confirmed in writing
• Payment processed or plan established
• Understanding of what follow-up costs might apply

Consent process:

• Detailed discussion of risks and benefits
• Opportunity to ask additional questions
• Written consent obtained before proceeding

3. The Me Clinic Difference

Responsible Cosmetic Medicine™

At Me Clinic, we've built our reputation on ethical, evidence-based cosmetic medicine:

• Evidence-based treatments only: We only offer procedures with proven safety and efficacy profiles backed by clinical research

• Ethical patient selection: We'll honestly advise if you're not a suitable candidate or if treatment isn't in your best interest

• Natural-looking results prioritized: Our philosophy focuses on enhancement, not transformation—you should look like a refreshed version of yourself

• Conservative approach first: We start with the minimum intervention needed and build from there, rather than over-treating initially

• Comprehensive aftercare: Our relationship continues after your treatment; we monitor your results and provide ongoing support

Experienced Practitioners

When you choose Me Clinic, you're accessing Melbourne's most experienced cosmetic medicine team:

• FRACS-qualified plastic surgeons: Our surgical team holds Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons, the highest surgical qualification in Australia

• Specialist cosmetic physicians: Our doctors specialize exclusively in cosmetic medicine with years of focused training

• Registered nurses: Our nursing team is specifically trained in cosmetic injecting and patient care

• Proven track record:

  • 25,000+ surgical procedures performed
  • 60,000+ non-surgical treatments delivered
  • Serving Melbourne for over 15 years

• Continued education: Our team regularly attends conferences, workshops, and training to stay at the forefront of techniques and safety protocols

• Artist's eye: Technical skill combined with aesthetic judgment to create beautiful, natural results

Transparent Pricing

We believe you should know exactly what you're paying for:

• Published price lists: Our prices are available on our website and during consultation

• No hidden fees: The price quoted includes the treatment, consultation, and standard follow-up

• Clear itemization: You understand what you're paying for and why

• Payment plans available: Flexible payment options to make treatment accessible

• Medicare rebates explained: For procedures with functional components, we'll clarify any potential Medicare rebates (though most cosmetic treatments don't qualify)

• No pressure: We never push treatments or create artificial urgency; take the time you need to decide

Safety first:

• Clinically approved products only (TGA-approved injectables; approved surgical techniques)
• Sterile technique and infection control protocols
• Emergency equipment and trained staff on-site
• Comprehensive pre-treatment health screening
• Clear communication about risks and complications

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does downturned mouth treatment cost in Melbourne?

Treatment costs vary based on the approach and severity:

Non-surgical options:

• Anti-wrinkle injections (DAO muscle): $300-$500 per treatment
• Dermal fillers (corner lift): $600-$900 per treatment (1-2mL typically required)
• Combination therapy (anti-wrinkle + filler): $900-$1,200 per treatment
• PDO thread lift: $800-$1,500 per treatment

Surgical option:

• Corner lip lift (commissuroplasty): $3,000-$6,000

At Me Clinic, we provide transparent, detailed pricing during your free consultation with no hidden fees. Prices include the treatment, consultation, and standard follow-up appointments. Payment plans are available to make treatment more accessible.

How long do results last?

Duration varies by treatment type:

Non-surgical:

• Anti-wrinkle injections: 3-4 months (requires maintenance treatments)
• Dermal fillers: 6-12 months depending on product and your metabolism
• PDO threads: 12-18 months (mechanical lift gradually reduces; collagen benefits last longer)

Surgical:

• Corner lip lift: Long-lasting results (5-10+ years minimum); permanent tissue repositioning though natural ageing continues

Results depend on individual factors including:

• Your age and skin quality
• Metabolism (how quickly your body breaks down injectables)
• Lifestyle factors (sun exposure, smoking, skincare)
• Severity of the original condition
• Muscle activity patterns

Most patients find that with regular maintenance, non-surgical treatments provide consistent improvement over time.

Is there any downtime?

Downtime varies significantly by treatment:

Anti-wrinkle injections: None. You can return to work and normal activities immediately. Minor injection site marks fade within hours. Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours.

Dermal fillers: Minimal. Expect minor swelling and possible bruising for 1-3 days. Most patients return to work the next day. Avoid strenuous exercise for 24-48 hours. Plan treatments before important events with a 2-week buffer.

PDO threads: Moderate. Expect 3-5 days of swelling and tenderness. Some patients return to work after 2-3 days while others prefer a full week. Avoid wide mouth movements and strenuous activity for 7-10 days.

Corner lip lift surgery: Significant. Plan for 7-10 days off work. Swelling peaks at days 2-3, then improves rapidly. Most visible swelling resolves by week 2-3. Full recovery including scar maturation takes 3-6 months, though you're presentable much sooner.

Your practitioner will provide specific downtime expectations during your consultation based on your planned treatment and individual factors.

Will it look natural?

Natural-looking results are the cornerstone of Me Clinic's Responsible Cosmetic Medicine™ approach. We avoid overdone or obvious treatments through:

Conservative treatment planning: Starting with the minimum intervention needed rather than over-treating. You can always add more but can't easily undo excessive treatment.

Respect for facial anatomy: Understanding how the mouth integrates with your overall facial proportions and expressions.

Skilled technique: Precise injection placement and surgical technique to achieve subtle elevation without distortion.

Honest assessment: If your goals aren't achievable naturally, we'll tell you upfront rather than promise unrealistic results.

Gradual approach: For first-time patients, we often recommend starting conservatively and building upon results rather than attempting dramatic change immediately.

The goal is for people to notice you look refreshed and positive—not for them to identify that you've had treatment.

Am I too young or too old for treatment?

There's no universal age limit for downturned mouth treatment. Suitability depends on individual factors rather than age alone:

Younger patients (20s-30s):

• May have congenital downturned corners or early muscle hyperactivity
• Often excellent candidates for anti-wrinkle injections
• Focus is typically on preventing progression
• Non-surgical approaches usually most appropriate

Middle-aged patients (40s-50s):

• Most common age group seeking treatment
• May have combination of muscle activity and volume loss
• Candidates for full range of non-surgical and surgical options
• Often achieve dramatic improvement

Older patients (60s+):

• May have more advanced volume loss and skin laxity
• Often benefit from surgical correction or comprehensive combination therapy
• Medical fitness for surgery is assessed individually
• Many achieve excellent results with appropriate treatment selection

During your consultation, we assess:

• Severity of the condition
• Skin quality and elasticity
• Overall health status
• Realistic expectations
• Psychological readiness

Age is just one factor among many. What matters most is that you're bothered by downturned corners and have realistic expectations about what treatment can achieve.

Does Medicare cover any treatments?

Most cosmetic treatments for downturned mouth corners are not covered by Medicare or private health insurance because they're considered aesthetic procedures.

Typically not covered:

• Anti-wrinkle injections for cosmetic purposes
• Dermal fillers
• Thread lifts
• Corner lip lift when performed purely for aesthetic reasons

Potential exceptions: Some surgical procedures may qualify for partial Medicare rebates if there's a documented functional component (for example, if severe downturning causes difficulties with eating or speaking). However, this is uncommon for corner lip lifts.

During your consultation, we'll clarify whether any Medicare rebates might apply to your specific situation. Even when a partial rebate is available, you should expect significant out-of-pocket costs.

Most patients self-fund these treatments, and we offer payment plans to make treatment more accessible.

What are the risks?

All treatments carry some risk. We'll discuss specific risks during your consultation, but common considerations include:

Anti-wrinkle injections:

• Temporary bruising or swelling at injection sites (common, resolves in days)
• Asymmetry requiring adjustment (rare with experienced injectors)
• Temporary weakness of nearby muscles affecting smile (rare, reversible)
• Allergic reaction (extremely rare)

Dermal fillers:

• Swelling and bruising for 1-3 days (common)
• Asymmetry requiring adjustment or dissolving (uncommon)
• Lumps or irregularities (usually resolve; can be massaged or dissolved)
• Infection (rare with proper technique)
• Vascular occlusion blocking blood flow (extremely rare; requires immediate treatment)
• Allergic reaction (very rare with hyaluronic acid fillers)

PDO threads:

• Swelling and tenderness (common, temporary)
• Asymmetry or visible/palpable threads (uncommon)
• Thread migration (rare)
• Infection (rare)
• Dimpling or puckering during healing (usually temporary)

Corner lip lift surgery:

• Swelling and bruising (expected; resolves over 2-3 weeks)
• Infection (rare; prevented with antibiotics and proper care)
• Scarring (expected but designed to be minimal; rare excessive scarring)
• Asymmetry requiring revision (uncommon)
• Altered sensation (temporary numbness common; persistent changes rare)
• Dissatisfaction with aesthetic outcome (reduced through careful planning)
• Anaesthesia risks (discussed with anaesthetist)

Risk mitigation: We minimize risks through:

• Comprehensive medical screening
• Using only TGA-approved, clinically proven products
• Experienced practitioners with extensive training
• Sterile technique and infection control
• Conservative treatment approach
• Clear pre- and post-treatment instructions
• Immediate access to practitioners if concerns arise

Can I see before/after photos?

Yes. During your consultation, we'll show you our before/after gallery featuring:

Relevant cases: We'll prioritize showing you cases similar to your specific situation in terms of severity, age, and treatment approach.

Range of outcomes: You'll see the spectrum of results achievable rather than just "best case" examples.

Different treatment approaches: Examples of anti-wrinkle injection results, filler results, combination therapy, and surgical outcomes so you can compare.

Realistic expectations: We use our gallery to illustrate what's achievable and set appropriate expectations rather than promise unrealistic outcomes.

Privacy respected: All photos are shown with patient consent and faces may be partially obscured to protect privacy.

You're welcome to ask questions about any case: what treatment was performed, how many sessions, how long results lasted, whether the patient was satisfied, etc.

Before/after photos are educational tools to help you make an informed decision, not marketing materials to convince you to proceed.

How do I prepare for treatment?

Preparation varies by treatment type. Your practitioner will provide specific instructions, but general guidelines include:

Before anti-wrinkle injections and fillers:

• Avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements if medically safe (aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo biloba) for 3-5 days before treatment to minimize bruising risk
• Avoid alcohol for 24 hours prior
• Come with clean skin (no makeup on treatment area)
• Eat a meal before your appointment (low blood sugar can increase bruising)
• Arrange schedule to avoid important events for 2 weeks after filler (allow time for any swelling or bruising)

Before thread lift:

• Follow anti-bruising protocols as above
• Arrange 3-5 days with reduced social/professional obligations
• Plan soft diet for first few days
• Fill prescriptions for pain relief if provided

Before corner lip lift surgery:

• Complete all pre-operative medical assessments
• Stop smoking at least 2 weeks before (ideally 4 weeks) and during recovery
• Cease all blood-thinning medications as directed (with doctor approval)
• Arrange transportation home after procedure
• Prepare your home with soft foods, ice packs, prescribed medications
• Arrange time off work (minimum 7-10 days)
• Plan help with childcare or household tasks if needed

Day of treatment:

• Wear comfortable clothing
• Come with clean face (no makeup for injectable treatments)
• Bring your questions and any medications you take
• For surgery: follow fasting instructions precisely

When will I see results?

Result timing varies significantly by treatment:

Anti-wrinkle injections:

• Initial effects: 3-5 days
• Full results: 10-14 days
• Why the delay: The botulinum toxin takes time to relax the muscle; gradual onset creates natural-looking results

Dermal fillers:

• Initial results: Immediate (you'll see the lift as soon as it's injected)
• Swelling resolution: 3-7 days
• Final settling: 2 weeks
• Why: The filler provides immediate volume and position, but minor swelling can mask the final aesthetic result initially

PDO threads:

• Mechanical lift: Immediate (though swelling obscures this initially)
• Visible results: 1-2 weeks once swelling resolves
• Collagen-building effects: Gradual improvement over 2-3 months
• Optimal results: 3 months when mechanical and biological effects combine

Corner lip lift surgery:

• Initial results: 2-4 weeks once major swelling subsides
• Good results: 6-8 weeks when most swelling resolved
• Final results: 6-12 months when tissue fully healed and scars matured
• Why so long: Surgical trauma causes significant swelling; tissue needs time to settle into its new position; scars continue to improve for months

Patient tip: Plan treatments with these timelines in mind, especially if you have an important event approaching. Allow buffer time beyond the stated timeframes to account for individual variation in healing.

What happens if I'm not happy with my results?

At Me Clinic, patient satisfaction is our priority. If you're not happy with your results:

For injectable treatments:

1. Follow-up assessment: Complimentary review appointment at 2 weeks (anti-wrinkle) or 2-4 weeks (filler) to assess results

2. Adjustment if needed:

   • Additional anti-wrinkle injections if asymmetry present (often at no charge if adjustment needed due to technique rather than anatomy)
   • Additional filler if more volume/lift needed (additional product charged; technique adjustments complimentary)

3. Reversal option:

   • Dermal fillers can be dissolved with hyaluronidase if you're unsatisfied (enzyme breaks down hyaluronic acid within 24-48 hours)
   • Anti-wrinkle effects wear off naturally within 3-4 months

4. Management of complications:

   • Immediate access to practitioners if complications arise
   • Emergency protocols for rare serious complications
   • Comprehensive aftercare until issue resolved

For surgical treatments:

1. Regular follow-up: Scheduled post-operative appointments to monitor healing

2. Revision if needed: If asymmetry or other surgical concern arises, revision procedures can be discussed (timing depends on complete healing, usually 6-12 months)

3. Honest conversation: We discuss realistic expectations before surgery specifically to minimize dissatisfaction; if results don't meet the expected outcome, we work with you to understand why and explore options

Our commitment:

• Open communication throughout your treatment journey
• Honest assessment if you're not a good candidate rather than proceeding with treatment likely to disappoint
• Standing behind our work with appropriate follow-up and adjustment
• Learning from every patient experience to continually improve

The best way to be happy with results is starting with realistic expectations, which we emphasize during consultation.

Can I combine this with other facial treatments?

Yes! Many patients achieve optimal facial rejuvenation by combining mouth corner treatment with other procedures. Common combinations include:

With injectable treatments:

• Lip filler to add volume and definition to lips themselves
• Nasolabial fold filler to address lines from nose to mouth
• Chin filler or anti-wrinkle for overall lower face harmony
• Cheek filler for mid-face support (can indirectly improve mouth area)
• Full-face anti-wrinkle treatment for comprehensive rejuvenation

With skin treatments:

• Chemical peels or laser resurfacing around the mouth for texture and fine lines
• Microneedling for skin quality improvement
• Skin tightening treatments (radiofrequency or ultrasound) for overall lower face

With surgical procedures:

• Facelift or lower facelift (addresses jowls, jawline, neck while improving mouth area)
• Neck lift (combined lower face rejuvenation)
• Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) for comprehensive facial refresh
• Fat grafting for volume restoration throughout face

Benefits of combination approach:

• Address multiple concerns in one treatment plan
• More harmonious overall results
• Potentially reduced costs (combined procedure fees)
• Single recovery period for multiple surgical procedures
• Efficient use of your time

Your Me Clinic practitioner will assess your entire face and discuss whether combination treatments would benefit you. The goal is facial harmony—sometimes improving multiple areas subtly creates better aesthetic results than focusing on one area alone.

Real Patient Results

At Me Clinic, we've treated thousands of Melbourne patients seeking to address downturned mouth corners. Our extensive experience spans the full spectrum of severity—from mild cases responsive to anti-wrinkle injections alone, to severe cases requiring surgical intervention.

While individual results vary based on your unique anatomy, age, and treatment selected, our before/after gallery demonstrates the range of natural-looking outcomes achievable with our treatment protocols. You'll see examples of:

• Subtle elevation with anti-wrinkle injections
• Volume restoration and lift with dermal fillers
• Comprehensive non-surgical correction with combination therapy
• Dramatic long-term improvement with corner lip lift surgery

During your consultation, your practitioner will show you cases that closely match your situation and discuss realistic expectations specific to you. We believe in transparency—you'll see a range of results, not just our best cases, so you can make an informed decision with accurate expectations.

What our patients tell us matters most: they frequently report that friends and family notice they look happier and more refreshed, without identifying that they've had treatment—exactly the natural-looking result we aim for.

Book Your Free Consultation

Ready to explore your treatment options for downturned mouth corners?

Three ways to book:

1. Call: (03) 8823 5859

• Speak directly with our patient coordinators
• Available Monday-Friday 9am-5pm, Saturday 9am-3pm
• Ask any preliminary questions

2. Online: [Visit meclinic.com.au/book-consultation]

• Book at your convenience 24/7
• Choose your preferred practitioner and time
• Receive immediate confirmation

3. Email: info@meclinic.com.au

• Send your inquiry and we'll respond within 24 hours
• Include your availability preferences
• Attach photos if you'd like preliminary feedback (optional)

What to bring to your consultation:

✓ List of current medications — Including prescription and over-the-counter medications and supplements

✓ Medical history — Relevant medical conditions, previous surgeries, allergies

✓ Questions for your practitioner — Write them down so you don't forget anything

✓ Photos showing your concern — Optional but helpful; can include photos from different angles or when smiling vs. at rest

✓ Open mind — Come ready to learn about your options without pressure to decide immediately

Your consultation includes:

✓ Comprehensive facial assessment — Detailed examination of your mouth area and lower face structure

✓ Personalized treatment recommendations — Options tailored specifically to your anatomy and goals

✓ Transparent pricing — Detailed cost breakdown with no hidden fees

✓ Before/after gallery review — Cases similar to yours with realistic outcome expectations

✓ Educational discussion — Understanding how treatments work and what to expect

✓ No obligation to proceed — Take information home and decide in your own time

✓ Complimentary follow-up — If you have questions after your consultation, we're here to help

Me Clinic Location:

Address: 4 Burke Road, Malvern East VIC 3145

Parking: Convenient off-street parking available directly in front of our clinic

Public transport:

• Tram Route 6 stops nearby (Glenferrie Road)
• Short walk from Malvern and Darling train stations

Accessibility: Ground floor entry; wheelchair accessible

What happens after your consultation?

There's no pressure to make an immediate decision. Many patients:

• Take information home to consider
• Discuss options with family or friends
• Research further and return with additional questions
• Book treatment on the same day if they feel confident

We'll provide written information summarizing your consultation including treatment options discussed and pricing. When you're ready to proceed, simply contact us to schedule your treatment.

Why choose Me Clinic?

Melbourne's most experienced cosmetic medicine practice:

• 15+ years serving Melbourne
• 25,000+ surgical procedures
• 60,000+ non-surgical treatments
• FRACS-qualified plastic surgeons
• Specialist cosmetic physicians
• Proven results with natural aesthetic

Responsible Cosmetic Medicine™:

• Ethics-first approach
• Evidence-based treatments only
• Honest patient selection
• Conservative treatment philosophy
• Comprehensive aftercare

Your journey to a more positive, refreshed appearance starts with a conversation. We look forward to meeting you.

Me Clinic Melbourne - Responsible Cosmetic Medicine™ since 2007

Disclaimer: Individual results vary. This information is educational and does not replace personal consultation with a qualified practitioner. All procedures carry risks which will be discussed during consultation.