Injectables

Marionette Lines

Hyaluronic acid dermal filler may be used to soften lines extending from the mouth towards the chin and support lower-face balance.

Clinical Introduction

Marionette lines extend downwards from the corners of the mouth towards the chin. Their appearance can be influenced by facial anatomy, volume change, skin laxity and movement through the lower face. At EQUA Clinic, treatment is planned around the relationship between the mouth, chin, jawline and surrounding tissues. Where clinically appropriate, carefully placed hyaluronic acid dermal filler may provide selected structural support and soften the appearance of the lines. The aim is a subtle, balanced result that preserves normal expression. Treatment cannot remove every line or correct significant skin laxity, and alternative approaches may sometimes be more suitable. Suitability, expected results and risks are discussed during consultation.

Suitability Indicators

  • Adults concerned about lines extending from the mouth towards the chin
  • Patients seeking subtle softening of lower-face folds
  • Those who may benefit from carefully selected structural support
  • Patients suitable for hyaluronic acid dermal filler following clinical assessment

Target Concerns

  • Marionette lines beside the mouth and chin
  • Shadowing through the lower face
  • Reduced support around the mouth
  • Balance between the mouth, chin and jawline

Consultation Process

Your consultation includes a medical history and an assessment of the mouth, chin, jawline, skin quality and lower-face movement. We discuss whether direct treatment, structural support elsewhere, an alternative approach, or no treatment is most appropriate.

The Treatment Journey Steps

  1. Clinical assessment and lower-face treatment planning
  2. Cleansing and antiseptic preparation of the treatment area
  3. Careful placement of hyaluronic acid dermal filler where clinically appropriate
  4. Assessment of facial movement, balance and tissue response
  5. Clear aftercare advice and access to clinical support

Safety & Downtime

Safety Note: The lower face contains important blood vessels and other anatomical structures. Treatment is planned around your individual anatomy, and potential complications, including the rare risk of vascular occlusion, are discussed before treatment.

Expected Downtime: Mild swelling, tenderness or bruising may occur around the treated area. This commonly begins to settle over several days, although individual recovery times vary.

Clinical Benefits & Limitations

Primary Benefits

  • May soften the appearance of selected lines between the mouth and chin
  • Can provide carefully planned support around the lower face
  • Aims to preserve natural movement and expression
  • Uses temporary hyaluronic acid dermal filler where clinically appropriate

Anatomical Limitations

  • Treatment cannot guarantee a lift of the mouth corners
  • Significant skin laxity or jowling may limit the result
  • Treating the line directly is not always the most balanced approach
  • Results vary and cannot be guaranteed

Precautions & Contraindications

  • Active infection, inflammation or open skin in the treatment area
  • Pregnancy or breastfeeding
  • Known hypersensitivity to the proposed product or its components
  • Any medical factor identified during consultation that makes treatment unsuitable

Home Aftercare Instructions

  • Keep the treated area clean and avoid applying make-up or skincare for 24 hours
  • Do not massage or apply firm pressure unless specifically advised
  • Avoid alcohol, strenuous exercise and excessive heat for 24 to 48 hours
  • Contact the clinic promptly if you experience unusual pain, colour change or any other concern

When will I see the results?

Some softening may be visible immediately, although swelling can affect the early appearance. Allow approximately two weeks for the area to settle before assessing the result. Outcomes vary between individuals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will treatment lift the corners of my mouth?

Carefully placed filler may provide support and soften surrounding shadows in suitable patients, but a lift cannot be guaranteed. The likely outcome is discussed following assessment.

Will I need treatment in another area?

Not necessarily. The mouth, chin and jawline are assessed together because treating an isolated line is not always the most balanced approach. Any recommendation will be individual to you.

Clinical Alternatives

Chin Balancing and Contouring (where chin support may improve lower-face proportion)

Explore clinical alternatives under professional direction.

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Skin Quality Treatments (where skin quality rather than volume is the main concern)

Explore clinical alternatives under professional direction.

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