Perioral wrinkles are creases that appear in the upper lip area, commonly known as “barcode lines.”
This aging process manifests as fine perioral lines, marionette lines, and a flattening of the Cupid’s bow. Additionally, the nasolabial fold lengthens and becomes less defined, creating a thinner upper lip appearance.
At Clínica Dental Arpón y Quijada, you can learn about our full range of aesthetic and perioral treatments.
Perioral treatment with hyaluronic acid
There are several treatment options available to enhance this area according to each patient’s preferences.
Lip Augmentation: Hyaluronic acid lip augmentation allows for adding volume and correcting lip asymmetry, achieving a very natural effect. It also deeply hydrates the lips, providing a plump and attractive look.
The procedure involves targeted injections in specific areas, such as the lip corners, lower lip, and Cupid’s bow, as determined by the specialist.
Since hyaluronic acid is a resorbable material, the effects last for about 6 to 8 months.
The treatment is very quick, taking approximately 10-15 minutes, and it is painless due to the application of an anesthetic cream that eliminates injection discomfort. Additionally, it is a very safe procedure and generally free from side effects.
Nasolabial Folds: These aesthetic wrinkles run from the sides of the nose to the corners of the lips. With age, facial fat is lost, and muscle contraction in the area increases, making these lines more prominent.
Hyaluronic acid treatment effectively reduces these wrinkles thanks to its immediate filling effect, as well as its ability to hydrate and stimulate collagen production.
The specialist will assess the treatment area and the depth of the wrinkles before administering hyaluronic acid injections. Although an anesthetic cream can be applied, it is typically unnecessary as the injections are only minimally uncomfortable. The treatment takes between 15 and 30 minutes, allowing patients to resume normal activities immediately.
Wrinkles at the Mouth Corners (Marionette Lines): These expression lines form from the end of the nasolabial fold to the sides of the chin due to various factors.
These wrinkles develop around the mouth as we age, as collagen and elastin production decreases. Other factors, such as sun exposure and genetics, also contribute to their formation. The area gradually loses its ability to retain moisture, becoming dehydrated and causing these lines at the mouth corners, which can give the face a sad appearance.
Hyaluronic acid treatment improves tissue hydration, filling marionette lines and slowing their progression over time.
Vertical Wrinkles on the Upper Lip (Barcode Lines): Barcode lines develop over time due to repetitive upper lip movements and lack of hydration, becoming more pronounced in smokers.
The specialist will apply small hyaluronic acid injections to smooth, hydrate, and erase these lines, preserving the lip’s natural profile.
Why do these wrinkles appear?
The main reason for these lines is the thin skin surrounding the lips, which dehydrates easily and is affected by muscle movement around the mouth.
Other contributing factors include genetics (especially in fair or dry skin), continuous muscle activity (laughing, talking, eating, smoking, etc.), and the natural loss of collagen, bone structure, and muscle tone with age.
All these causes contribute to the formation of unwanted perioral wrinkles and pronounced marionette and nasolabial folds.
Other treatments
As fullness and volume fade, the first wrinkles around the lips start to appear. These changes concern many of our patients, but it is often possible to restore the youthful appearance of the mouth without surgery.
Starting treatments in the early stages is essential before the lips flatten, lose their shape and contour, and wrinkles around the mouth deepen.
Available options include microinjections of botulinum toxins, hyaluronic acid injections for fine wrinkles, and complementary treatments such as peels and laser therapy.
Frequently asked questions about perioral treatment with hyaluronic acid
How can I prevent or delay their appearance?
Over time and with sun exposure, the dermis weakens and thins (elastosis). Smokers tend to contract the muscles around their lips when inhaling smoke. To prevent these effects, it’s essential to protect your skin from the sun and avoid smoking.
Are there any contraindications?
People who have had cold sores should take antiviral medications like Acyclovir as a preventive measure to avoid outbreaks. Injectable treatments may cause bruising, which typically fades on its own.
How is the injectable technique performed?
The treatment begins with numbing the lips. Hyaluronic acid is then gradually applied to the most prominent wrinkles. There are no significant side effects, and results are nearly immediate.
What about post-treatment care?
In the weeks following treatment, it’s important to apply petroleum jelly to the treated area. Along with initial redness, scabs may form and will shed naturally. After a few weeks, the final treatment results will be visible.
Conclusion
A prior assessment is essential for perioral treatment. At Clínica Arpón y Quijada, we offer reliable treatments for those seeking to improve their facial aesthetics safely and effectively.
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