Quick answer: If hyperactivity of the muscles that elevate the upper lip plays a role in prominent upper gum display when smiling, botulinum toxin can temporarily reduce this appearance in selected cases.
What is Gummy Smile Botulinum Toxin?
If hyperactivity of the muscles that elevate the upper lip plays a role in prominent upper gum display when smiling, botulinum toxin can temporarily reduce this appearance in selected cases. The aim in botulinum toxin applications is to modulate target muscle or gland activity in a temporary and controlled manner. The result varies according to personal anatomy, muscle strength, the treatment area, and clinical goals.
A gummy smile is not due to a single cause
Excessive gum display during smiling can stem from different causes such as the activity of the muscles that elevate the upper lip, upper lip length, tooth and gum structure, or the anatomy of the upper jaw.
In which situations is botulinum toxin meaningful?
In selected individuals where muscle activity makes a distinct contribution, it can reduce excessive elevation of the upper lip during smiling. If the underlying cause of the issue is dental, periodontal, or skeletal, reducing muscle activity alone may not provide the expected outcome.
Why is function important?
The upper lip plays a role in speaking, smiling, drinking, and facial expression. Therefore, the aim is not to freeze the smile, but to preserve function while balancing excessive movement.
Who can it be evaluated for?
The tooth-to-gum ratio, maxillary structure, lip length, and muscle activity are differentiated. In skeletal or periodontal causes, botulinum toxin alone does not correct the underlying cause.
Pre-procedure evaluation
Our approach in our clinic is to evaluate the history, dynamic examination, facial or functional anatomy, asymmetry, previous applications, and the individual’s goals together, rather than applying a standard point scheme. In the evaluation, the person’s medical history, anatomical features, previous applications, and expectations from the treatment are addressed together.
Scientific evidence
This application area is evaluated based on botulinum toxin’s effect of temporarily reducing muscle activity. Scientific publications and expert consensuses indicate that patient selection and anatomical evaluation are important for outcomes and safety.
When does the effect begin and how long does it last?
The effect usually begins to appear within the first few days and becomes more pronounced in the following days. The duration can vary depending on the application area, muscle activity, and individual biological differences. The timing of the follow-up examination is planned according to the type of application.
Possible side effects
Pain, tenderness, bruising, or headache may occur at the injection site. Region-specific effects such as temporary asymmetry, unwanted weakness in adjacent muscles, changes in eyelid/eyebrow position, changes in oral functions, or difficulty swallowing may occur. Rare but serious generalized muscle weakness, difficulty swallowing, or difficulty breathing requires emergency medical evaluation.
Who might it not be suitable for?
Active infection in the application area, known hypersensitivity to botulinum toxin components, and certain neuromuscular diseases require special attention. Pregnancy/breastfeeding, anticoagulant use, aminoglycosides or medications that can affect neuromuscular transmission, and previous botulinum toxin applications must be shared with the physician.
Post-procedure considerations
It is advisable not to unnecessarily rub or intensely manipulate the treatment area on the same day. Short-term redness, tenderness, or small bruises may be observed at the injection points. It is often possible to return to daily life in a short time; if strenuous exercise, intense heat exposure, or another facial procedure is planned, follow your physician’s recommendation according to your individual situation. Since the effect is not immediately complete, early judgments about symmetry should not be made in the first hours or days. If a pronounced change in eyelid or eyebrow position, new complaints related to vision, unexpected marked weakness, or any other symptom that concerns you develops, contact our clinic. Serious symptoms such as difficulty swallowing or breathing require emergency medical evaluation.
Our approach in our Bodrum clinic
Our goal is not to standardize facial expression; it is to create a personalized plan that preserves the individual’s natural facial expressions, facial proportions, and opposing muscle balance.
Frequently asked questions
Is the effect permanent?
No. Neuromuscular or neuroglandular communication re-establishes over time, and the effect diminishes.
Is the procedure planned the same way for everyone?
No. The plan is personalized taking into account anatomy, muscle activity, functional characteristics, goals, and previous procedure experiences.
Why is the follow-up evaluation important?
The effect of botulinum toxin is not immediately complete. The follow-up evaluation helps assess the clinical response, symmetry, and alignment with the individual’s goals together.
References
Peer-reviewed botulinum toxin research, systematic reviews, expert consensuses, and relevant clinical guidelines have been taken as the basis.
This page is for general informational purposes; it does not substitute for a personal diagnosis or treatment recommendation.
