--- title: Gummy Smile Treatment - Excessive Gum Display Melbourne | Me Clinic canonical_url: https://directory.meclinic.com.au/facial-concerns/gummy-smile-treatment-excessive-gum-display-melbourne-me-clinic/ category: description: # Gummy Smile Treatment - Treatment Options at Me Clinic Melbourne ## Quick Summary **What causes excessive gum display (gummy smile):** - Hyperactive upper lip elevator muscle - Excessive gum tissu... geography: city: state: country: metadata: phone: email: website: publishedAt: --- # Gummy Smile Treatment - Excessive Gum Display Melbourne | Me Clinic # Gummy Smile Treatment - Treatment Options at Me Clinic Melbourne ## Quick Summary **What causes excessive gum display (gummy smile):** - Hyperactive upper lip elevator muscle - Excessive gum tissue covering teeth - Short upper lip or upper jaw positioned too far forward - Altered passive eruption (teeth appear short due to excess gum) **Treatment options available:** - Non-surgical: Anti-wrinkle injections (lip lowering technique), dermal fillers for lip enhancement - Surgical: Lip repositioning surgery, crown lengthening (dental), orthognathic surgery (jaw repositioning) **Expected results:** - Reduced gum visibility when smiling (typically 2-4mm reduction) - More balanced smile appearance with greater tooth-to-gum ratio - Results appear within days (injectables) to weeks (surgery) - Natural-looking, harmonious smile aesthetics **Cost range:** - Non-surgical (anti-wrinkle): $350-$600 per treatment - Surgical (lip repositioning): $4,000-$8,000 - Surgical (crown lengthening): $2,000-$6,000 (varies by number of teeth) - Surgical (orthognathic): $15,000-$25,000+ - *Prices based on Me Clinic's transparent pricing policy* **Next steps:** - Book free consultation with experienced cosmetic physician or plastic surgeon - Discuss which treatment approach suits your anatomy and goals - Review before/after gallery of gummy smile corrections - Understand recovery timeline and maintenance requirements ## Understanding Excessive Gum Display (Gummy Smile) **What is a gummy smile?** A gummy smile, medically known as excessive gingival display, occurs when more than 3-4mm of gum tissue shows above the upper teeth when smiling. While this is a normal anatomical variation affecting approximately 10-15% of adults, many people feel self-conscious about the appearance and seek treatment for aesthetic improvement. It's important to understand that a gummy smile is not a medical problem—it's purely a cosmetic concern. There's no "correct" amount of gum that should show when smiling. However, if you feel your gummy smile affects your confidence or prevents you from smiling freely, modern cosmetic medicine offers several effective solutions. **What causes excessive gum display?** The causes of a gummy smile are anatomical and typically fall into four categories: 1. **Hyperactive upper lip elevator muscle** - The levator labii superioris muscle lifts your upper lip when you smile - In some people, this muscle contracts more forcefully than average - This pulls the upper lip higher, revealing more gum tissue - This is the most common cause and responds well to anti-wrinkle injections 2. **Excessive gum tissue (gingival hyperplasia)** - Some people have more gum tissue covering their teeth - This can make teeth appear shorter than they actually are - The condition is called altered passive eruption - Crown lengthening surgery removes excess gum to expose more tooth structure 3. **Anatomical factors** - Short upper lip (less than 20mm from base of nose to lip border) - Vertical maxillary excess (upper jaw positioned too far down) - Small teeth relative to gum tissue - These factors may require surgical correction for optimal results 4. **Skeletal jaw positioning** - Upper jaw (maxilla) positioned too far forward or downward - This creates excess space between nose and upper lip - Often hereditary and may affect facial balance - Orthognathic surgery repositions the jaw for comprehensive correction **Who experiences gummy smile?** Gummy smile affects people of all ages and genders, though women seek treatment more frequently than men. The condition typically becomes noticeable during adolescence when facial growth is complete. Key demographics: - **Age range:** Most commonly noticed between ages 16-35, though treatment is sought at any age - **Gender:** Approximately 60% of patients seeking treatment are women, though men are increasingly seeking correction - **Genetics:** Strong hereditary component—if parents have a gummy smile, children are more likely to develop one - **When it becomes apparent:** Usually noticed in teenage years when people become more self-aware about their appearance **Why it matters** While a gummy smile doesn't affect oral health or function, it can significantly impact quality of life: - **Psychological impact:** Many people report feeling self-conscious about their smile, avoiding photographs or covering their mouth when laughing - **Professional concerns:** Some individuals feel their smile appears less mature or professional - **Social confidence:** Reluctance to smile freely can affect social interactions and relationships - **Personal satisfaction:** Many patients report that correcting their gummy smile was life-changing for their confidence It's worth emphasising: seeking treatment is entirely personal. A gummy smile is a normal variation, and treatment should only be considered if it genuinely bothers you—not because of external pressure or arbitrary beauty standards. ## Treatment Options Comparison ### Non-Surgical Treatments **1. Anti-Wrinkle Injections (Botulinum Toxin) - Lip Lowering Technique** This is the most popular first-line treatment for gummy smile caused by hyperactive lip muscles. - **How it works:** Small amounts of anti-wrinkle product are injected into the levator labii superioris muscle on either side of the nose. This temporarily relaxes the muscle that elevates the upper lip, preventing it from lifting as high when you smile. The result is that less gum tissue is exposed. - **Best for:** Patients with 2-4mm of gum display caused primarily by hyperactive lip muscles, rather than skeletal or dental causes. - **Procedure time:** 10-15 minutes in-clinic - **Downtime:** None to minimal—you can return to normal activities immediately, though we recommend avoiding exercise for 4 hours - **Results appear:** Typically within 3-7 days, with full effect at 2 weeks - **Results last:** 3-4 months on average, then treatment needs repeating - **Cost range:** $350-$600 per treatment (Me Clinic transparent pricing) - **Pros:** - Quick, non-invasive procedure - No downtime or recovery period - Reversible (effects wear off naturally) - Can be adjusted at follow-up appointments - Low risk profile when performed by experienced practitioners - Can "trial" the improvement before considering permanent options - **Cons:** - Temporary results requiring ongoing maintenance (3-4 treatments per year) - Ongoing cost over time - Doesn't address structural causes like excess gum tissue or jaw positioning - Subtle stiffness in upper lip movement (usually minimal when dosed appropriately) - Won't work if cause is skeletal or dental rather than muscular **Clinical considerations:** This treatment requires precise technique and dosing. Too much product can make smiling feel unnatural or create asymmetry. At Me Clinic, our experienced cosmetic physicians carefully assess your facial anatomy and muscle dynamics before treatment to achieve natural-looking results. **2. Dermal Fillers - Upper Lip Enhancement** While not a direct treatment for gummy smile, strategic filler placement can sometimes improve the appearance. - **How it works:** Hyaluronic acid fillers add volume to the upper lip, making it slightly fuller and reducing the proportion of gum visible when smiling. This creates better balance rather than reducing gum display directly. - **Best for:** Patients with thin upper lips where additional volume improves smile proportions; often used in combination with anti-wrinkle treatment - **Procedure time:** 20-30 minutes - **Downtime:** Minor swelling for 24-48 hours, occasional bruising - **Results appear:** Immediate, though final settling occurs over 2 weeks - **Results last:** 6-12 months depending on product and metabolism - **Cost range:** $650-$850 per syringe (typically 0.5-1ml used for upper lip) - **Pros:** - Immediate visible improvement - Can enhance overall lip aesthetics - Natural-looking when done conservatively - Reversible with hyaluronidase if needed - **Cons:** - Doesn't reduce actual gum display, just creates better proportion - Temporary results requiring maintenance - Can look unnatural if overdone - Not suitable for patients who already have full lips - Less effective than anti-wrinkle treatment for primary gummy smile correction **Important note:** Dermal fillers alone rarely solve a gummy smile problem but can be a useful adjunct treatment as part of a comprehensive approach. ### Surgical Treatments **1. Lip Repositioning Surgery** This surgical procedure permanently limits how high the upper lip can elevate when smiling. - **What it is:** A cosmetic surgery performed inside the mouth where a small strip of tissue is removed from beneath the upper lip, then the lip is repositioned and sutured to limit its upward movement. This prevents excessive gum display when smiling without affecting lip appearance at rest. - **Best for:** Patients with moderate to severe gum display (4mm+) who want permanent correction and are good candidates for surgery - **Procedure time:** 60-90 minutes - **Anaesthesia:** Local anaesthetic with or without sedation - **Hospital stay:** Day procedure—no overnight stay required - **Recovery time:** - Initial healing: 7-10 days - Return to work: 3-5 days for desk work - Return to normal activities: 2 weeks - Complete healing: 4-6 weeks - **Results appear:** Immediately visible, though final results after swelling subsides (2-3 weeks) - **Results last:** Permanent, though approximately 10-30% of patients experience some relapse over years - **Cost range:** $4,000-$8,000 (varies based on surgeon experience and facility) - **Pros:** - Permanent correction of gummy smile - One-time procedure eliminates need for ongoing treatments - Predictable, significant improvement (typically 2-4mm reduction) - Performed inside mouth—no external scarring - Can be combined with other cosmetic dental procedures - **Cons:** - Invasive surgical procedure with associated risks - Recovery period with restrictions on eating and oral hygiene - Potential complications: infection, asymmetry, scarring, relapse - More expensive upfront cost - Cannot be reversed if patient is unsatisfied - May affect upper lip mobility or sensation (usually temporary) **Clinical considerations:** This surgery requires careful patient selection. It's most successful in patients with good dental health, adequate upper lip length, and realistic expectations. At Me Clinic, our plastic surgeons conduct thorough assessments including measurements and photographic analysis before recommending this procedure. **2. Crown Lengthening (Dental/Periodontal Surgery)** A periodontal procedure performed by specialist dentists or periodontists to expose more tooth structure. - **What it is:** Excess gum tissue (and sometimes bone) is removed from around the teeth to make them appear longer. This doesn't actually change lip position but alters the tooth-to-gum ratio, making the smile appear less "gummy." - **Best for:** Patients where the primary issue is excess gum tissue covering the teeth (altered passive eruption) rather than hyperactive lip muscles - **Procedure time:** 1-2 hours depending on number of teeth treated - **Anaesthesia:** Local anaesthetic - **Hospital stay:** Day procedure - **Recovery time:** - Gums heal in 7-10 days - Return to normal diet: 2 weeks - Final gum contour settles: 6-8 weeks - Complete healing: 3 months - **Results appear:** Immediately, though gums continue to mature for several months - **Results last:** Permanent - **Cost range:** $2,000-$6,000 (highly variable depending on number of teeth and complexity—often charged per tooth) - **Pros:** - Creates more balanced smile by exposing more tooth structure - Permanent results - Can dramatically improve smile aesthetics when gum excess is the primary issue - Often covered partially by health insurance if there's a functional component - **Cons:** - Invasive dental surgery with recovery period - Potential tooth sensitivity (usually temporary) - Exposed teeth may appear longer than desired in some cases - Doesn't address hyperactive lip muscles - May require complementary treatments (veneers or orthodontics) for optimal aesthetics - Not reversible **Clinical considerations:** This procedure is best assessed by a prosthodontist or periodontist specialising in aesthetic dentistry. At Me Clinic, we work collaboratively with leading dental specialists to ensure comprehensive treatment planning for patients who may benefit from crown lengthening. **3. Orthognathic Surgery (Jaw Repositioning)** Comprehensive surgical correction of jaw positioning to address skeletal causes of gummy smile. - **What it is:** Major maxillofacial surgery that repositions the upper jaw (maxilla) vertically and/or horizontally to correct the skeletal foundation causing excessive gum display. This is often combined with orthodontics (braces) before and after surgery. - **Best for:** Patients with vertical maxillary excess or significant jaw imbalance where the gummy smile is part of broader facial disproportion - **Procedure time:** 2-4 hours - **Anaesthesia:** General anaesthesia - **Hospital stay:** 1-2 nights typically - **Recovery time:** - Initial swelling peaks at 48-72 hours - Return to light activities: 2 weeks - Return to work: 2-4 weeks - Resume exercise: 6-8 weeks - Complete healing and final results: 6-12 months - **Results appear:** Initial results visible once swelling subsides (2-4 weeks), final facial contours at 6-12 months - **Results last:** Permanent - **Cost range:** $15,000-$25,000+ (includes surgeon fees, hospital, anaesthesia) - **Pros:** - Addresses underlying skeletal cause comprehensively - Can improve overall facial balance and profile - Permanent solution - May improve breathing, bite function alongside aesthetics - Transforms smile and lower facial proportions - **Cons:** - Major surgery with significant risks (infection, nerve damage, bleeding, jaw numbness) - Extended recovery period - Requires orthodontic treatment (typically 12-18 months pre-surgery, 6-12 months post-surgery) - High cost - General anaesthesia risks - Significant lifestyle disruption during recovery **Clinical considerations:** Orthognathic surgery is only appropriate for patients with true skeletal imbalance where the gummy smile is part of broader jaw disproportion. This requires comprehensive assessment by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon with planning involving orthodontists. It's rarely performed solely for gummy smile correction—usually there are functional or broader aesthetic concerns. ## Choosing the Right Treatment - Decision Guide **Consider non-surgical anti-wrinkle treatment if:** ✓ Your gum display is 2-4mm when smiling ✓ Your gummy smile is primarily caused by hyperactive lip muscles ✓ You want to trial improvement before committing to permanent surgery ✓ You prefer minimal to no downtime ✓ You're comfortable with maintenance treatments 3-4 times yearly ✓ You want a reversible, adjustable solution ✓ Budget considerations favour lower upfront cost **Consider surgical treatment (lip repositioning) if:** ✓ You have moderate to severe gum display (4mm+) ✓ You want permanent correction without ongoing treatments ✓ Anti-wrinkle treatment provided insufficient improvement ✓ You can accommodate recovery time (1-2 weeks) ✓ You're willing to accept surgical risks for lasting results ✓ Cost-benefit analysis favours one-time investment **Consider crown lengthening if:** ✓ Your teeth appear short due to excess gum tissue covering them ✓ Your gum line is uneven or asymmetrical ✓ You've been diagnosed with altered passive eruption by a dentist ✓ Your primary concern is tooth-to-gum ratio rather than lip position ✓ You're considering other cosmetic dental work (veneers, etc.) **Consider orthognathic surgery if:** ✓ You have significant skeletal jaw imbalance ✓ Your gummy smile is part of broader facial disproportion ✓ You have bite problems or jaw function issues ✓ Other treatments have been ruled out as insufficient ✓ You're prepared for major surgery and extended recovery **Combination approach:** Many patients achieve optimal results by combining treatments strategically: - **Anti-wrinkle injections + crown lengthening:** Addresses both hyperactive muscles and excess gum tissue for comprehensive improvement - **Lip repositioning + cosmetic dentistry:** Surgical lip correction combined with veneers or orthodontics for complete smile makeover - **Anti-wrinkle injections first, then surgery:** Trial the improvement with temporary treatment, then commit to permanent surgical correction if satisfied Your Me Clinic surgeon or cosmetic physician will conduct detailed assessment during consultation, including: - Facial measurements and smile analysis - Assessment of lip mobility and muscle activity - Evaluation of dental and gum health - Skeletal and jaw positioning evaluation - Discussion of your goals and lifestyle factors This comprehensive approach ensures you receive personalised recommendations based on your anatomy, not a one-size-fits-all protocol. ## What to Expect at Me Clinic **1. Initial Consultation (Free)** Your journey begins with a thorough consultation where we take time to understand your concerns and assess your unique anatomy: - **Comprehensive smile assessment:** We'll analyse your smile at rest and during full expression, measuring gum display and evaluating the causes - **Discussion of concerns and goals:** Understanding what bothers you most and what improvement would be meaningful - **Medical and dental history review:** Identifying any factors that might influence treatment selection - **Treatment options explained:** We'll explain which options are suitable for your specific anatomy and goals - **Realistic expectations set:** Honest discussion about what each treatment can and cannot achieve - **Transparent pricing provided:** Clear cost breakdown with no hidden fees - **Before/after gallery review:** Relevant cases showing outcomes for patients with similar concerns **2. Treatment Planning** If you decide to proceed, we develop a customised plan: - **Personalised treatment protocol:** Specific approach tailored to your anatomy and goals - **Timeline and sessions explained:** How many treatments, spacing, maintenance requirements - **Pre-treatment instructions:** What to do (and avoid) before your procedure - **Detailed cost breakdown:** Payment options and plans available - **Questions answered:** No question is too small—we ensure you feel informed and comfortable **3. The Me Clinic Difference** **Responsible Cosmetic Medicine™** At Me Clinic, we're guided by principles that put patient wellbeing first: - **Evidence-based treatments only:** We only offer procedures with proven safety and efficacy - **Ethical patient selection:** We'll honestly tell you if you're not a suitable candidate - **Natural-looking results prioritised:** We aim for improvement that looks like you, just refreshed - **Conservative approach first:** Starting with less invasive options when appropriate - **Comprehensive aftercare:** Support doesn't end when you leave our clinic **Experienced Practitioners** Your treatment will be performed by highly qualified professionals: - **FRACS-qualified plastic surgeons:** Fellows of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons for surgical procedures - **Specialist cosmetic physicians:** Doctors with advanced training specifically in cosmetic medicine - **Registered nurses:** Supporting your treatment and recovery - **Track record:** Over 25,000 surgical procedures and 60,000 non-surgical treatments performed - **Continuous education:** Our practitioners remain at the forefront of cosmetic medicine advances **Transparent Pricing** We believe in honest pricing without surprise fees: - **Published price guides:** Clear pricing for all treatments - **No hidden costs:** What you're quoted is what you pay - **Payment plans available:** Flexible options to suit your budget - **Medicare rebates explained:** We'll clarify if any rebates apply to your situation (rare for cosmetic treatments) ## Frequently Asked Questions **How much does gummy smile treatment cost in Melbourne?** Treatment costs vary significantly based on your chosen approach: - **Non-surgical anti-wrinkle treatment:** $350-$600 per treatment (required 3-4 times per year) - **Lip repositioning surgery:** $4,000-$8,000 (one-time procedure) - **Crown lengthening:** $2,000-$6,000 (varies by number of teeth treated) - **Orthognathic surgery:** $15,000-$25,000+ At Me Clinic, we provide transparent pricing during your free consultation. We'll explain exactly what's included and help you understand the long-term cost comparison between ongoing non-surgical treatments versus one-time surgical procedures. Payment plans are available for surgical procedures to make treatment more accessible. **How long do results last?** Result duration depends on your chosen treatment: - **Anti-wrinkle injections:** 3-4 months, then treatment needs repeating for maintained results - **Dermal fillers:** 6-12 months before gradual breakdown - **Lip repositioning surgery:** Permanent, though 10-30% of patients experience some relapse over years - **Crown lengthening:** Permanent structural change - **Orthognathic surgery:** Permanent correction Results also depend on individual factors including age, healing capacity, lifestyle habits, and how your body responds to treatment. During consultation, we'll discuss realistic expectations for longevity based on your specific circumstances. **Is there any downtime?** Downtime varies by treatment: - **Anti-wrinkle injections:** None to minimal—return to normal activities immediately, avoid strenuous exercise for 4 hours - **Dermal fillers:** Minor swelling/bruising for 24-48 hours, can return to work same day - **Lip repositioning surgery:** 3-5 days off work recommended, 1-2 weeks to return to normal activities, avoid strenuous exercise 2-3 weeks - **Crown lengthening:** 7-10 days until comfortable with normal eating, 2 weeks until full recovery - **Orthognathic surgery:** 2-4 weeks off work, 6-8 weeks until resuming exercise, 6-12 months for complete healing Your practitioner will provide detailed aftercare instructions and realistic downtime expectations during consultation so you can plan accordingly. **Will my smile look natural?** This is a top priority at Me Clinic. Our approach is guided by Responsible Cosmetic Medicine™ principles: - **Conservative treatment philosophy:** We aim for improvement, not dramatic transformation - **Customised dosing:** Anti-wrinkle treatment is carefully dosed to maintain natural lip movement - **Surgical precision:** Surgeons measure and plan to achieve balanced, proportionate results - **Honest assessment:** We'll tell you if your expectations are unrealistic The goal is a smile you feel confident about while preserving your unique facial expressions. You should look like yourself, just with less gum display. Many patients report that friends comment they "look great" without being able to identify what changed. **Am I too young or old for gummy smile treatment?** There's no universal age limit, but considerations vary: - **Younger patients (under 18):** Facial growth should be complete before surgical treatment. Non-surgical options may be appropriate for mature teenagers with parental consent. - **Adult patients:** Most patients seeking treatment are between 20-45, but treatment is suitable at any age if you're in good health - **Older patients:** Age alone doesn't disqualify you, but overall health, healing capacity, and realistic expectations are assessed During consultation, we consider: - Facial maturity and stability - Overall health and medical fitness - Skin quality and elasticity - Realistic expectations - Motivation for treatment **Does Medicare cover gummy smile treatment?** Unfortunately, gummy smile correction is considered cosmetic, so Medicare rebates rarely apply. However: - **Item numbers may apply** if there's a functional component (for example, if jaw surgery is required for bite problems alongside cosmetic improvement) - **Private health insurance:** Some hospital costs may be partially covered for surgical procedures, depending on your level of cover - **HICAPS available:** We process health fund claims on the spot where applicable We'll clarify during consultation whether any rebates apply to your specific situation and provide honest guidance about out-of-pocket costs. **What are the risks?** All treatments carry some level of risk. Common considerations: **Anti-wrinkle injections:** - Bruising or swelling at injection sites (usually resolves in 2-3 days) - Temporary asymmetry if muscle response varies between sides - Lip stiffness or difficulty smiling naturally if overdosed (wears off in weeks) - Rare allergic reaction **Surgical treatments:** - Infection (minimised with antibiotics and proper aftercare) - Bleeding or haematoma - Asymmetry or overcorrection - Scarring (inside mouth, not visible externally) - Altered sensation or numbness (usually temporary) - Relapse or recurrence (particularly with lip repositioning) - Anaesthesia risks (for procedures requiring sedation or general anaesthetic) **Crown lengthening:** - Tooth sensitivity (usually temporary) - Uneven gum line requiring revision - Root exposure in some cases Your practitioner will discuss specific risks relevant to your chosen treatment during consultation. We take extensive measures to minimise complications through proper patient selection, surgical technique, and comprehensive aftercare. **Can I see before and after photos?** Absolutely. During your consultation, we'll show you our gallery of gummy smile correction cases. These include: - Patients with similar gum display to yours - Range of treatment approaches (anti-wrinkle, surgical) - Various ages and facial structures We maintain a comprehensive photographic record of patient outcomes (with consent) to help you understand realistic results. Keep in mind that individual results vary based on anatomy, healing, and specific treatment approach. Your practitioner will explain what outcomes are achievable in your case. **How do I prepare for treatment?** Preparation varies by treatment type: **For anti-wrinkle injections:** - Avoid blood-thinning medications (aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil) for 48 hours if medically safe - Arrive with clean face (no makeup on treatment area) - Inform practitioner of any recent dental work or infections **For surgical procedures:** - Medical clearance if required (for patients with health conditions) - Stop smoking at least 4 weeks before surgery (critical for healing) - Arrange transport home (cannot drive after sedation/anaesthesia) - Stock soft foods for recovery period - Fill prescriptions in advance (antibiotics, pain relief) - Plan time off work Your practitioner will provide a detailed pre-treatment checklist specific to your procedure. Following these instructions carefully optimises your results and minimises complications. **When will I see results?** Result timeline varies by treatment: - **Anti-wrinkle injections:** Effect begins at 3-5 days, peaks at 10-14 days, you'll see progressive improvement during this window - **Dermal fillers:** Immediate visual change, though swelling may mask final result for first 2 weeks - **Lip repositioning surgery:** Immediate reduction in gum display, though swelling obscures final result for 2-3 weeks - **Crown lengthening:** Immediate exposure of more tooth structure, gums mature over 6-8 weeks - **Orthognathic surgery:** Dramatic swelling for first 2-4 weeks, progressive improvement over 6-12 months as facial tissues settle It's important to have realistic expectations about the timeline. Surgical procedures require patience as your body heals and adapts. Your practitioner will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and ensure optimal healing. **What if I'm not happy with my results?** Patient satisfaction is our priority, and we have processes to address concerns: **For anti-wrinkle treatments:** - Effects are temporary (wear off in 3-4 months) - Adjustments can be made at 2-week follow-up if needed - Undercorrection can be improved with additional product - Overcorrection resolves as product wears off **For surgical procedures:** - Revision surgery may be possible if outcome doesn't meet surgical plan (rare) - Some degree of asymmetry or relapse may require touch-up - We'll discuss revision policy during initial consultation We encourage open communication. If you have concerns during your recovery or once healed, contact us immediately. We'll assess whether your concern is within normal healing variation or requires intervention. **How do I choose between treatments?** This is exactly what your consultation is for. We'll help you navigate this decision based on: 1. **Anatomical assessment:** What's actually causing your gummy smile (muscles vs. excess tissue vs. skeletal factors) 2. **Severity:** Mild cases often respond well to anti-wrinkle treatment; severe cases may require surgery 3. **Goals:** How important is permanence vs. flexibility? 4. **Lifestyle:** Can you accommodate downtime? Comfortable with ongoing treatments? 5. **Budget:** Balancing upfront cost vs. long-term investment 6. **Risk tolerance:** Surgical risks vs. commitment to maintenance treatments Many patients start with anti-wrinkle treatment to "trial" the improvement before committing to permanent surgery. This is a perfectly valid approach. We're here to guide you through the decision, not pressure you toward any particular option. **Will treatment affect my ability to speak or eat?** This depends on the treatment: **Anti-wrinkle injections:** No effect on speech or eating. Some patients report subtle stiffness in upper lip initially, but this doesn't impair function and typically becomes less noticeable as you adapt. **Lip repositioning surgery:** - First week: soft diet required, speech slightly affected by swelling - Weeks 2-4: Gradual return to normal eating and speaking - After healing: No long-term effect on speech or eating function **Crown lengthening:** - First 7-10 days: Soft diet recommended while gums heal - Possible temporary sensitivity to hot/cold - No long-term functional impact once healed **Orthognathic surgery:** - Liquid diet for first 2 weeks, soft foods 2-6 weeks - Speech affected during initial recovery due to swelling - Gradual improvement over months - Long-term improvement in bite function ## Real Patient Results At Me Clinic, we've successfully treated hundreds of patients concerned about excessive gum display. Our approach focuses on: - **Detailed assessment:** Understanding the specific anatomical causes in your case - **Customised treatment:** Selecting the right option or combination for your goals - **Natural outcomes:** Achieving improvement while maintaining facial harmony - **Patient satisfaction:** High rates of satisfaction through realistic expectation-setting While individual results vary based on starting anatomy and chosen treatment, our before/after gallery demonstrates the range of improvements achievable. Cases include: - Mild gummy smiles (2-3mm) corrected with anti-wrinkle treatment alone - Moderate cases (3-5mm) treated with lip repositioning surgery - Complex cases requiring combination approaches - Various ages and facial structures During your consultation, your practitioner will show you relevant cases similar to yours and discuss what degree of improvement is realistic. We believe in honest, transparent communication about expected outcomes—underpromising and overdelivering rather than the reverse. ## Book Your Free Consultation Ready to explore your treatment options for gummy smile correction? **Three ways to book:** 1. **Call:** (03) 8823 5859 (Monday-Friday 9am-5pm, Saturday 9am-3pm) 2. **Online:** Visit meclinic.com.au/book-consultation 3. **Email:** info@meclinic.com.au **What to bring to your consultation:** - List of current medications and supplements - Medical and dental history - Questions you want answered - Photos showing your concern (optional—we'll take clinical photos during consultation) - Ideas or inspiration photos (optional—helps us understand your aesthetic goals) **Your consultation includes:** ✓ Comprehensive facial and smile assessment with measurements ✓ Discussion of anatomical causes specific to your case ✓ Explanation of all suitable treatment options ✓ Before/after gallery review of relevant cases ✓ Transparent pricing with payment plan options ✓ Opportunity to meet potential treating practitioner ✓ No pressure or obligation to proceed **Me Clinic Location:** 4 Burke Road, Malvern East VIC 3145 Convenient free parking available on-site Easily accessible via public transport (Burke Road tram route) **Our commitment to you:** - Evidence-based treatment recommendations - Honest assessment of suitability - Natural-looking, conservative results - Transparent pricing and realistic expectations - Comprehensive support throughout your journey We look forward to helping you achieve the confident, balanced smile you deserve. Book your free consultation today—there's no obligation, and we're here to answer your questions and explore whether treatment is right for you.