TREATMENT INFO
Downturned mouth corners can be influenced by muscles that pull the corners of the mouth downwards. Where this movement contributes to your concern, anti-wrinkle treatment aims to soften the downward pull for a more relaxed appearance around the mouth. Please note: All anti-wrinkle and muscle-relaxing treatment appointments are subject to a consultation with our independent nurse prescriber to assess suitability and create a personalised plan with your safety and goals in mind.

Learn more
Downturned mouth corners are where the outer corners of the mouth sit lower, creating a downward curve when the face is relaxed. This can give the appearance of a sad or serious expression, even when that doesn’t reflect how you feel.
Muscles called the depressor anguli oris, or DAO, help pull the mouth corners downwards. Their activity can contribute to this appearance, alongside facial structure, facial volume loss and skin laxity.
What it helps
Part of our anti-wrinkle treatments, this treatment targets the DAO muscles that contribute to downturned mouth corners. This treatment can soften their downward pull. The aim is a subtle change in resting expression.
It does not replace lost volume or directly treat every crease around the mouth. We’ll explain whether a different approach would better address your concern.
Key info
PRICE FROM
From £230. Confirmed following clinical assessment, if suitable.
RESULTS SEEN
Usually begin within a few days, with the full effect visible by around two weeks.
RESULTS LAST
Usually around 3–4 months; longevity varies.
NO. OF SESSIONS
An initial appointment, with further treatment based on review.
TREATMENT TIME
Approximately 30 minutes. Injecting time is much faster.
SIDE EFFECTS
Possible redness, swelling, bruising or tenderness.
PAIN
Tolerated well by most. Brief injection discomfort.
DOWNTIME
Minimal, with aftercare guidance provided.
How it works
Muscle-relaxing treatment reduces activity in selected muscles that pull the corners of the mouth downwards. Where this downward pull is a contributing factor, reducing it may change the resting appearance of the mouth.
Precise assessment is important because surrounding muscles support smiling, speaking and lip movement.
Our approach
We consider your facial movement, skin and surrounding features to understand what’s contributing to your concern. Your treatment plan is tailored to your anatomy, priorities and goals, with clear advice about the changes treatment may achieve.
Your consultation will be with our in-house independent nurse prescriber, Helen Lada, who will review your medical history, assess suitability and explain your options. Treatment is only carried out where clinically appropriate.
Your questions
Several factors can contribute, including muscle activity, facial structure, facial volume loss and skin laxity. Treatment recommendations depend on which factors are affecting your mouth position.
DAO stands for depressor anguli oris. These muscles help pull the corners of your mouth downwards and are assessed when considering anti-wrinkle treatment for a downturned appearance.
No. Marionette lines extend downwards from the mouth towards the chin. They can involve changes in volume and skin support, so options such as marionette line filler may be discussed separately following assessment.
Yes. Treatment around the mouth can affect nearby muscles and alter smile symmetry or lip movement. We’ll explain these risks and consider your individual facial movement before recommending treatment. If you also have chin puckering, we’ll assess this separately before discussing chin dimpling treatment.
Ready when you are
Book a no-pressure consultation with our friendly team and we’ll talk through your concerns, goals and the treatment options that may be right for you.