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# Gummy Smile and Mouth Corner Botox: Improving Facial Expression Lines

> Category: treatment-guide
> Published: 2026-09-12 07:00:40.847823+00
> Source: https://kdermzip.com/en/blog/gum-smile-lip-corner-botox-for-facial-expression-correction

## Gummy Smile and [Mouth Corner Botox](/treatments/botox-mouth-corner): What are the effects?

Gummy smile and drooping mouth corners are common concerns regarding facial expression lines that can be improved through Botox treatment. Botox can temporarily relax the movement of specific muscles, reducing gum exposure when smiling or naturally lifting the mouth corners. This can help create a softer and more positive impression.

### Why does Gummy Smile occur?

Gummy smile refers to the phenomenon where the upper gums are excessively exposed when smiling. This can primarily occur due to the following reasons:

- **Overdevelopment of muscles that lift the upper lip:** This occurs when the muscles that lift the upper lip (e.g., levator labii superioris) act too strongly, causing the lip to rise excessively when smiling.
- **Short upper lip length:** In some cases, the upper lip is congenitally short in vertical length, leading to more visible gums when smiling.
- **Gingival overgrowth or tooth alignment:** Excessive growth of gum tissue, or the alignment and size of teeth, can also make gum exposure more prominent.

Among these, gummy smile caused by overdeveloped muscles can be effectively improved through Botox treatment. By injecting Botox into the muscles that lift the upper lip to weaken their movement, it can prevent the upper lip from rising excessively when smiling, thereby reducing gum exposure. It is crucial to consult with a specialist before the procedure to accurately identify the cause.

### When is Mouth Corner Botox needed?

Mouth corner Botox may be considered when the mouth corners are drooping, or when they do not lift sufficiently when smiling, giving a somewhat sad or angry impression. Drooping mouth corners can occur due to the following reasons:

- **Overdevelopment of the depressor anguli oris muscle:** This occurs when the muscle that pulls down the mouth corner (depressor anguli oris) is excessively developed, causing the mouth corners to droop.
- **Decreased skin elasticity due to aging:** As one ages, skin elasticity decreases, and the effects of gravity can cause the mouth corners to droop.
- **Habitual expressions:** Habitual neutral expressions or the habit of pulling down the mouth corners can also contribute.

Mouth corner Botox involves injecting Botox into the depressor anguli oris muscle to weaken its strength, thereby balancing it with the muscles that lift the mouth corners (levator anguli oris) and helping the mouth corners to naturally rise. This can contribute to creating a brighter and more positive impression. Since the treatment plan may vary depending on an individual's facial muscle structure and expressive habits, it is important to consult thoroughly with a specialist.

### Botox Treatment Procedure and Precautions

Gummy smile and mouth corner Botox treatments generally follow these steps:

- **Specialist consultation and diagnosis:** The individual's facial muscle structure, expressive habits, and areas of concern are accurately diagnosed to determine suitability for treatment and the appropriate dosage.
- **Sterilization and anesthesia of the treatment area:** The treatment area is sterilized, and if necessary, anesthetic cream is applied to minimize pain.
- **Botox injection:** A predetermined dose of Botox is precisely injected into the muscle. The treatment time is relatively short.
- **Post-treatment precautions:** Patients are informed about potential reactions and precautions after the procedure.

It is advisable to follow these precautions after the treatment:

- Do not rub or massage the injection site vigorously.
- It is recommended to remain upright (sitting) for 4-6 hours after the procedure.
- Alcohol consumption and smoking can cause inflammation, so it is advisable to refrain from them for a certain period.
- Avoid strenuous exercise or high-temperature environments such as saunas.

The effects of Botox generally begin to appear gradually within a few days after the treatment, becoming most noticeable after 1-2 weeks, and can last for approximately 3-6 months. The duration of effect varies among individuals, and regular treatments can help maintain the results. It is important to follow the instructions of medical professionals before and after the procedure.

### Gummy Smile and Mouth Corner Botox: What to Consider?

While Botox treatment is relatively simple, as it acts on facial expression muscles, the following points should be considered for natural-looking results:

- **Personalized treatment:** Everyone's facial muscle structure and expressive habits are different. Therefore, personalized treatment that considers individual characteristics is more important than a standardized approach.
- **Specialist's expertise:** Botox must be injected at the correct location with the appropriate dosage to minimize side effects and achieve satisfactory results. It is important to receive treatment from a specialist with extensive experience.
- **Avoid excessive treatment:** Injecting an excessive dose or in an inappropriate area can lead to unnatural expressions or other side effects. It is best to aim for natural improvement.
- **Understanding side effects and limitations:** While Botox treatment is generally safe, rare side effects such as bruising, swelling, asymmetry, or temporary unnatural expressions can occur. It is important to fully understand these side effects and the limitations of the procedure before deciding on treatment.

This article provides general medical information and does not substitute for individual diagnosis, treatment, or prescription. If you are concerned about a gummy smile or drooping mouth corners, it is crucial to consult with a dermatologist to establish an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your condition.

## Clinics with Registered Related Procedures

- [Hosuiwon](/ko/clinic/hanamsi-hosu-dermatology) (Hanam-si) — Registered procedures: Mouth Corner Botox, Gummy Smile Botox

Listed alphabetically and not a ranking or medical recommendation. Procedure information is based on content registered by each clinic. (Source: Keudeomjip)

## Related Resources
- Blog post: https://kdermzip.com/en/blog/gum-smile-lip-corner-botox-for-facial-expression-correction
- All guides: https://kdermzip.com/en/blog
- K-DermZip: https://kdermzip.com
