Marionette Lines: Why the Corners of Your Mouth Turn Down
The anatomy behind the lines running from your mouth corners to your jawline, why they can appear early, and how the treatment options really compare.
Marionette Lines Explained
01Lower Face Anatomy and Ageing
As we age, the tissues supporting the lower face lose volume and elasticity. Ligaments stretch, fat pads descend, and the muscles around the mouth become more prominent in their pull. The result is a drooping of the mouth corners and the development of deeper lines from nose to chin.
The area around the mouth is anatomically complex, involving:
The depressor anguli oris (DAO) muscle, which pulls the corners downward
A network of ligaments and connective tissues that lose strength over time
Volume depletion in the jawline, chin, and mid-face that reduces lift
Understanding these anatomical changes is key to treating marionette lines effectively and restoring facial harmony.
02Treatment Approach and Technique
At Dr Harry Clinic, we take a strategic and holistic approach to treating marionette lines. It begins with a detailed assessment of your lower face, taking into account skin quality, volume loss patterns, muscle activity, and natural expressions.
The goals of treatment include:
Supporting the mouth corners to lift the overall expression
Softening etched lines while preserving facial movement
Restoring volume where needed to prevent further drooping
Ensuring results feel subtle, symmetrical, and emotionally positive
03Advanced Techniques for Natural Results
Achieving results that look natural and feel expressive requires both medical precision and artistic sensitivity. Our technique blends advanced filler placement with an understanding of facial dynamics.
Key methods include:
Precision filler placement to support the corners of the mouth and restore underlying structure
Layered volumisation where deeper tissue loss has occurred, such as along the jawline or chin
Expression-preserving injection techniques that avoid restricting natural smile and speaking movement
Use of flexible hyaluronic acid fillers, such as Belotero Balance or Belotero Volume, that integrate well into dynamic areas
Cannula techniques are often used in this area to minimise bruising and enhance comfort, especially given the rich vascular network in the lower face.
04Integrated Lower Face Rejuvenation
Marionette lines rarely occur in isolation. They’re often accompanied by other changes such as nasolabial folds, chin dimpling, or early jowling. We assess the full lower face and, when appropriate, recommend combination treatments to enhance results and maintain balance.
This may include:
Cheek support to subtly lift downward tension
Chin enhancement to improve lower face proportions
DAO (depressor anguli oris) injections to relax downward pull
Jawline sculpting to restore a youthful contour
By treating the face as a whole, we’re able to deliver results that not only smooth lines but elevate your overall expression and confidence.
05What to Expect from Treatment
Immediate softening of marionette lines, with subtle lift of the mouth corners
Minimal downtime, typically with only light swelling or bruising for 24 to 48 hours
Results that evolve over several days, settling into a smooth and natural appearance
Longevity of 9 to 18 months, depending on lifestyle and individual metabolism
Cumulative benefits when integrated into your broader aesthetic plan
