Vertical lines around the mouth, commonly called "smoker's lines" or perioral wrinkles, can develop over time, regardless of whether you've ever smoked. These fine lines form due to repetitive lip movements, sun exposure, collagen loss, and natural aging.
Dr. Paul Leong, founder of Leong Aesthetics and a double board-certified Facial Plastic Surgeon with training from Yale University School of Medicine and the University of Pittsburgh, has built his practice on a foundation of precision, artistry, and natural-looking results. His team specializes in using advanced filler techniques to rejuvenate the perioral area without compromising the soft, expressive quality that makes your smile uniquely yours.
In this blog, we'll explore how lip fillers can effectively address smoker's lines, what to expect from treatment, and why choosing a physician-supervised practice makes all the difference.
Why Do Smoker Lines Form?
Smoker's lines can affect anyone due to several factors:
- Repetitive muscle movements: Activities like pursing your lips, drinking through straws, or talking create dynamic wrinkles over time.
- Sun damage: UV exposure degrades collagen and elastin, leading to thinner, less resilient skin.
- Natural aging: As we age, the skin produces less hyaluronic acid and collagen, reducing volume and elasticity.
- Genetics: Some individuals are predisposed to earlier or more pronounced perioral wrinkles.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, protecting skin from sun exposure and avoiding smoking are two of the most effective ways to prevent premature wrinkles. However, once these lines have formed, topical treatments alone often fall short of delivering noticeable improvement.
How Do Lip Fillers Address Smoker's Lines?
Lip fillers containing hyaluronic acid (HA) offer a proven, non-surgical solution for smoothing perioral wrinkles. When strategically injected around the mouth, HA fillers work in several ways:
- Volumizing effect: Fillers add structure beneath the skin, filling in creases and softening their appearance.
- Hydration boost: Hyaluronic acid draws water molecules to the treatment area, improving skin texture and smoothness.
- Collagen stimulation: Some studies suggest that HA fillers may encourage natural collagen production over time, enhancing long-term skin quality.
- Subtle lift: Fillers can gently lift and support the lip border, creating a more youthful contour.
At Leong Aesthetics, our nurse injectors utilize Dr. Leong's refined blunt-tip cannula technique to deliver precise and comfortable results.
What Types of Fillers Work Best for Smoker's Lines?
Not all fillers are created equal, and selecting the right product is crucial for achieving optimal results in the delicate perioral area. Popular options for smokers' lines include:
- Restylane: Known for its smooth consistency and versatility in treating fine lines.
- Juvéderm: Offers a range of formulations designed for different depths and areas of the face.
- RHA (Resilient Hyaluronic Acid): Engineered to adapt to facial movements, making it ideal for dynamic areas like the mouth.
During your consultation at Leong Aesthetics, Dr. Leong and his team will assess your skin quality, the depth of wrinkles, and your aesthetic goals to recommend the most suitable filler.
Can Lip Fillers Be Combined With Other Treatments?
For comprehensive rejuvenation around the mouth, lip fillers can be strategically combined with complementary treatments to enhance overall results:
- Botox or Dysport: Neuromodulators relax the muscles responsible for repetitive lip movements, preventing new lines from forming while fillers address existing wrinkles.
- Microneedling: Stimulates collagen production and improves skin texture, creating a smoother canvas for fillers.
- Laser resurfacing: Reduces pigmentation, tightens skin, and further diminishes fine lines for a more youthful appearance.
- Medical-grade skincare: Products containing retinoids, peptides, and antioxidants support long-term skin health and prolong filler results.
Smooth, Youthful Skin Is Possible
With advanced hyaluronic acid fillers and Dr. Paul Leong's meticulous, patient-first approach, you can achieve smoother, more youthful-looking skin around your mouth.
If you're ready to address perioral wrinkles and restore a refreshed, balanced appearance, schedule your consultation at Leong Aesthetics in Pittsburgh today.