The depressor anguli oris (DAO) muscles pull down the mouth corners, contributing to a downturned mouth as we age.
The depressor anguli oris (DAO) muscles pull down the mouth corners, contributing to a downturned mouth as we age. Anti-wrinkle injections into these muscles can lift the mouth corners, creating a youthful appearance. Overusing the DAO muscle can also emphasize marionette lines that extend down the chin from the corners of the mouth like a marionette puppet.
Anti-wrinkle injections offer a non-surgical solution to rejuvenate the mouth area, lifting the corners for a youthful look. It is effective and has minimal side effects.
The proper functioning of the DAO muscle is crucial for various oral activities, such as eating, drinking, and facial expressions. In order to address a downturned mouth and enhance the appearance of the corners of the mouth, a low-dose injection of neurotoxin is recommended. This treatment option offers a lift without compromising the functionality of the mouth and jaw. Additionally, DAO Botox can also help smooth out fine lines, wrinkles, and dimples in the treated areas.
It is imperative that injectors administering DAO Botox possess a comprehensive understanding of facial anatomy to ensure precise placement of the injections. This is essential to prevent the neurotoxin from spreading to unintended muscles and interfering with the lower face’s natural movements. The risk of adverse effects is significantly higher when seeking treatment from inexperienced injectors, especially for an off-label use like DAO Botox.
The procedure involves injecting small amounts of neurotoxin into the DAO muscles to reduce their activity and lift the corners of the mouth. The effects typically last between 8 to 12 weeks.
Patients should follow their practitioner’s aftercare guidelines and it’s recommended to avoid any lower face procedures until 2 weeks after injections.
Due to the complexity of this area and the advanced skill required to perform the procedure safely, costs may vary and are often charged by area rather than by units.
The number of units of Botox needed for DAO Botox varies depending on each individual’s facial anatomy and the degree of mouth drooping. Generally, 2-4 units per side of the mouth are administered, with some degree of asymmetry between the two sides of the face being normal.
