SMOKERS
LINES

The lines that etch the lips and can extend vertically from the lips are commonly referred to as Lipstick Lines or Smoker’s Lines and their medical term is Peri-Oral Lip Lines. Fine lines and wrinkles around the lips are Caused by a combination of genetics, volume loss, sun damage and also smoking. Lip lines are often first noticed when lipstick starts to ‘bleed’ out of the lip border into the vertical fine lines around the mouth. They are usually more prevalent on the upper lips.

The repetitive muscle motion of smoking, excessive pouting, kissing or straw use will cause the lines formed by this motion to etch into the skin as wrinkles over time. Smokers will often develop these lines at a younger age than non smokers due to the aging effects of smoking on the skin.

We lose volume in our faces as we age, and around our lips are no exception as the fat layers below the skin atrophy and sag. Collagen production decreases and the existing collagen in our skin degrades, causing the skin to thin. UV damage through exposure to the sun is another contributor to the premature formation of these lines.

Botulinum toxin injections for Lip Lines

Botulinum toxin injections can be a great option to improve Smokers Lip Lines. A small amount of botulinum toxin is injected into the area above the upper lip to relax the muscle making the pursing expression. By relaxing the underlying muscles, the perioral lines are softened. With repeated treatments over time, the lines that have etched into the skin will also improve. One side effect of this treatment is the loss of some function of the upper lip such as mild difficulty using a straw or kissing. This usually resolves in a few days and is well tolerated by most who have the treatment.

After Care
After the Smokers Lip Lines procedure, the usual after care for botulinum treatment applies - avoid alcohol and exercise for 24 hours to minimise bruising. Avoid rubbing or massaging your lips. Try to sleep on your back for a few days so your lips don’t press against your pillow. For this type of treatment, there is usually no recovery time, most people go back to their work or normal activities straight after.

Results
The results are visible in just a few days. For deeper lines, and an instantaneous result, Dermal fillers can also be used in conjunction with Botulinum Toxin.

Dermal filler injections for Lip Lines

When Smokers Lip Lines are deeper, dermal filler into the border of the lip can make an immediate and significant improvement. Dermal fillers can be used to recreate the lip border, fill the lines, improve any asymmetry and hydrate the lip tissue. Using dermal filler, the lip lines can be smoothed out, restoring the shape and giving a natural look.

Prior to your treatment, a consultation with your injector will help determine which filler will meet your specific needs, and how much filler you need for your desired result. Half to one syringe (1mL) of a soft dermal filler is usually needed to smooth out Smokers Lip Lines.

To reduce bruising and bleeding from lip injections, it's best to avoid blood thinners leading up to your appointment. This means to stop taking aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oils etc. at least seven days before your appointment, and avoid drinking alcohol for at least 24 hours prior to the appointment. Make sure to drink plenty of water and eat before your appointment to reduce the risk of fainting or dizziness during the procedure.

After Care
After the lip filler treatment, you will need to avoid alcohol and exercise to minimise bruising and swelling. If you have discomfort, you can use paracetamol but need to avoid aspirin and ibuprofen as they are blood thinners. A cool pack can also help reduce swelling and discomfort. You should avoid putting firm pressure on your lips, and not wear lipstick for 24 hours. Most patients find the lip augmentation procedure tolerable and the most common side effects are usually mild and resolve in a few days after the procedure.

Results
Duration of lip augmentation treatment can vary based on your age, the filler choice and amount of filler used, but generally, lip fillers last from six months to 1 year before needing a retreatment.