Integrated Dermatology Group of Reston

Botox and Dermal Fillers Reston

While you may have never heard of marionette lines, you’ve likely seen them before. They’re the vertical lines that run from the corners of the mouth to the chin and resemble the mouth of a ventriloquist’s puppet.

So, now that you know what they are, what can you do to get rid of these unwanted creases?

Keep reading to learn how cosmetic injectables like Botox and dermal fillers can combat signs of aging, and which of these two treatments is best for marionette lines.

What Causes Marionette Lines?

Like other wrinkles, marionette lines are the result of a breakdown of collagen and elastin over time. This effect also causes skin to become thinner and more susceptible to damage from the sun and environmental agents.

What’s more, the mouth is in constant motion, so this area of the face is especially vulnerable to volume loss and formation of folds and creases.

Can Botox Improve These Vertical Folds?

Botox Cosmetic is an FDA-approved neurotoxin that relaxes forehead lines, crow’s feet, and frown lines. It works to eradicate wrinkles by blocking nerve signals and limiting muscle contraction.

While Botox can be used to lift the corners of the mouth by weakening the Depressor Anguli Oris muscle, it’s not the best option for addressing marionette lines that require volume restoration.

Why Are Dermal Fillers Preferred for the Treatment of Marionette Lines?

While Botox works on muscles, dermal fillers are used to add volume and hydration to soft tissue. As a result, they are the preferred injectable for instantly plumping and correcting marionette lines.

In fact, leading injectors like Dr. Colombo often turn to hyaluronic acid fillers, such as Juvederm and Restylane, because they have a high safety profile, require zero-downtime, and provide smooth and reliable results.

Best of all, treatment benefits can last 8 months to 2 years depending on the product used.

To learn more about treating marionette lines with filler, please contact our office today to schedule a consultation.