McKeown Medical
167 Bath Street, Glasgow, G2 4SQ
Downturned mouth corners
We are instinctively drawn to the mouth when we read expressions. Even subtle downturned mouth corners can suggest fatigue or frustration, regardless of how you actually feel.
In younger patients, this can be the result of overactive depressor muscles pulling the corners downward at rest or it can relate to the structure of the lower face, including a deficient chin projection. In more mature patients, loss of facial volume reduces structural support, allowing the soft tissues to descend and create heaviness around the lower face.
Through careful structural support and precise muscle rebalancing, we can soften the lower face and restore a relaxed resting expression without altering your natural smile, improving overall facial balance and subtle expression harmony.
We are instinctively drawn to the mouth when we read expressions. Even subtle downturned mouth corners can suggest fatigue or frustration, regardless of how you actually feel.
In younger patients, this can be the result of overactive depressor muscles pulling the corners downward at rest or it can relate to the structure of the lower face, including a deficient chin projection. In more mature patients, loss of facial volume reduces structural support, allowing the soft tissues to descend and create heaviness around the lower face.
Through careful structural support and precise muscle rebalancing, we can soften the lower face and restore a relaxed resting expression without altering your natural smile, improving overall facial balance and subtle expression harmony.
Downturned Mouth Corners Treatment Overview
Treatment for downturned mouth corners is typically a non-surgical procedure performed in our Glasgow clinic following a detailed consultation.
The appointment typically takes 20–30 minutes. Discomfort is minimal, and downtime is limited.
Results are visible quickly and continue to refine over the following one to two weeks. The aim is subtle improvement, not transformation.
Choosing Downturned Mouth Corners Treatment
Successful treatment depends on judgement. During consultation, we assess muscle dynamics, volume distribution, and lower facial proportion. Treating the visible symptom without understanding the underlying cause, risks imbalance. Treating the cause allows for a more refined, natural result.
Downturned Mouth Corners Treatment vs. Similar Treatments
Downturned mouth corners are sometimes confused with marionette lines or nasolabial folds.
Marionette lines describe vertical creases beneath the mouth. Nasolabial folds reflect mid-face descent. Downturned mouth corners concern the resting angle and expression of the mouth itself. Sometimes they appear in isolation. Sometimes they occur in combination.
Each requires a distinct anatomical strategy.
What can help?
An example of how filler injections can lift the mouth corners. See how this was done in the video below.
An example of how filler injections can lift the mouth corners. See how this was done in the video below.
An example of how filler injections can lift the mouth corners. See how this was done in the video below.
An example of how filler injections can lift the mouth corners. See how this was done in the video below.
An example of how filler injections can lift the mouth corners. See how this was done in the video below.
An example of how filler injections can lift the mouth corners. See how this was done in the video below.
In younger patients with stronger depressor muscles, injectable muscle relaxants are excellent at correcting a downturned mouth. In more mature patients, however, a comprehensive approach to restoring lost facial volume is often required to achieve a naturally rested appearance, and eliminate a downturned mouth.
In Action
Take a closer look at how this restoration was achieved
Treatment Options
Your treatment plan will be tailored to your individual needs and the results you are looking to achieve.
Are you ready to start your consultation?
Finding the right treatment for you is the most important factor in ensuring that you are on the correct path to achieve the results you desire. Our pre-consultation enquiry helps us to identify your needs and, ultimately, gets you on the right path to achieving your optimal results.
Patient Testimonials
Downturned mouth corners can make us look sad, even when we feel happy inside. Hear how treatment with filler injections corrected this problem for our patient.
Patient Reviews
Hear from our patients about their experience at McKeown Medical.
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The best place for the best advice and the best service. Friendly, knowledgeable and professional.
A McKeown Medical patient November 2023
The whole experience was fabulous. My phone consultation was very knowledgeable and friendly and everyone in the office was so welcoming. I’ll definitely be back.
A McKeown Medical patient April 2024
I saw Dr Rhona Cameron who I have seen before. She is very welcoming and has a lovely manner. She is easy to talk to and I am very pleased with the results.
A McKeown Medical patient November 2023
Made me feel really calm and relaxed and staff from reception and treatment room were so pleasant and very professional.
Dr Darren was amazing. Made me so comfortable and so so pleasant. Such a lovely guy! Highly recommend, absolutely delighted so far – although, as advised, a bit swollen! Thank you so much.
A McKeown Medical patient April 2024
From start to finish the team and Dr Darren were so welcoming and professional. Everything was explained clearly and the results are more than I could have hoped for.
A McKeown Medical patient April 2024
I am delighted with the subtle changes that have made such a difference to my face giving me so much more confidence. Dr Darren is one of the very best so I had total trust in what he was doing. Every member of staff make you feel at ease, they are all so lovely and friendly.
A McKeown Medical patient March 2024
Dr Rhona was lovely and put me at ease before and during the treatment. I was well informed of my options prior to treatment taking place and aftercare was explained thoroughly too. Will definitely be revisiting soon.
A McKeown Medical patient March 2024
Dr Rhona was particularly kind and sensitive to my needs and her care is very patient centred.
A McKeown Medical patient October 2023
From the moment I walked through the door I was treated so well by every member of staff, all so friendly and helpful. I received Halo and BBL I was a little nervous but Dr Rhona completely put my mind at rest.
After my treatments I was taken good care of and Dr Darren came and reassured me too which was an added bonus. I returned a few weeks later for my checkup and again was treated so well, Dr Darren remembered me which was lovely.
I am delighted with the results of my treatment I feel my skin looks so much fresher and this in turn has lifted my self esteem which had previously been at a low point. I highly recommend both these treatments and would not hesitate to return to Dr Darren’s Clinic in the future. Thank you to all again.
A McKeown Medical patient December 2023
It’s just a lovely clinic. Everyone is very professional and it feels very high end, so you know you’re in safe hands, but they’re also friendly, welcoming and warm which really matters when visiting as it helps you feel at ease & relaxed.
From my very first contact with yourselves to the minute I left the attention to detail and client service was impeccable, every member of staff I came into contact with was so friendly and professional put me at ease so much. Sometimes I get a little overwhelmed with environments like this however this was furthest from my thoughts on arrival.
My consultation answered all concerns Dr Rhona explained what would give me best results as to what I was looking to achieve . As I was travelling from a far your team kindly got my booked in same day for my treatment so I didn’t have to make another journey. Upon my procedure which again every step of the way was explained my therapist was so attentive talked me through everything step as she was carrying out my treatment and explained all my after care.
I am currently in day 3 of the Halo treatment and everything is exactly what I was told to expect. I am now looking forward to seeing end result. Thank you to you and your team .
A McKeown Medical patient May 2024
Lovely friendly staff. Came out after treatment feeling so much better about my appearance. Dr Darren McKeown puts you at ease and gives you a wonderful boost. Thank you all.
A McKeown Medical patient March 2024
I have so much trust and faith in Dr Darren and I thank him dearly for all that he has done for me to improve my confidence.
A McKeown Medical patient September 2023
More about Downturned mouth corners
How it Works
Step 1: Initial Consultation
A comprehensive facial assessment identifies the muscular and structural factors contributing to your downturned mouth corners.
Step 2: Treatment Planning
A personalised plan is created using muscle relaxing injections, dermal fillers or a combination approach.
Step 3: Treatment Preparation
A personalised plan is created using muscle relaxing injections, dermal fillers, or a combination approach.
Step 4: Treatment
Injections are delivered conservatively and precisely in a calm clinical environment.
Step 5: Recovery & Follow-Up
Most patients resume normal activities immediately. Mild swelling or tenderness typically settles within 48 hours. A follow-up appointment, if required, can help ensure optimal balance.
Before, During, and After Downturned Mouth Corners Treatment
What To Expect Before Downturned Mouth Corners Treatment
Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation. We will assess your facial structure, muscle movement, and lower face proportions to determine what is contributing to your downturned mouth corners.
We will also discuss your goals, expectations, and medical history. Clear, honest advice is provided so you can make an informed decision. If treatment is appropriate, a bespoke plan will be created, based entirely on your anatomy.
What To Expect During Downturned Mouth Corners Treatment
Treatment is performed in a calm, clinical environment and typically takes around 20–30 minutes.
The skin is carefully cleansed, and injection points are precisely mapped. Depending on the treatment plan, muscle relaxing injections, dermal fillers or a combination approach will be used. Most patients notice only mild discomfort. The procedure is efficient and well-tolerated.
What To Expect After Downturned Mouth Corners Treatment
You can usually return to normal activities immediately following treatment.
There may be mild swelling or tenderness, which typically settles within 24–48 hours. Occasional bruising can occur, but is generally minimal. Results are visible quickly and continue to refine over the following one to two weeks as any swelling resolves.
The outcome should feel natural; a softer, more balanced resting expression that reflects how you truly feel.
Common Questions
What are the benefits?
Dermal fillers work by replacing the volume lost from areas of the face, such as the chin and cheeks – and by restoring the patient’s natural scaffolding we can support the mouth and prevent drooping at the corners. The results of the dermal filler typically last 12 – 18 months.
Which anaesthetic is used?
Dermal fillers also do not necessitate anaesthetic; however they do contain a local anaesthetic known as lidocaine. This helps to reduce discomfort, while topical numbing cream can also help if the patient is anxious.
What's the downtime?
Dermal fillers can cause slight swelling, and post-procedure, the area will feel sore – though this has normally settled by the next day. If bruising occurs, it can be covered with post-procedure makeup – this should also not be applied until the following day. In addition, we encourage patients to sleep with their head elevated for the first few nights following the procedure, to keep any swelling to a minimum.
When will I see results?
Dermal fillers are instantly gratifying and results can be seen immediately (though the best results are to be seen in two weeks’ time, when the filler has fully integrated with the tissues).
Is treatment for a Downturned Mouth Corners painful?
Treatment for downturned mouth corners is generally very well tolerated. You may feel a brief sensation during injection, but this settles quickly. Dermal fillers contain local anaesthetic, and numbing cream can be applied if required.
Will my results look natural?
Yes. The goal is to soften downturned mouth corners so you look refreshed, not altered.
Can Downturned Mouth Corner treatments be combined with other facial treatments?
Yes. Combining treatment with chin or jawline refinement can further improve lower facial balance.
Will treatment affect how my mouth moves when I smile or talk?
No. When performed conservatively, natural movement and expression are preserved.
Can younger patients benefit from Downturned Mouth Corner treatments?
Yes. In younger patients, muscle tension is often the primary cause, and targeted injections can effectively rebalance the expression.
Your Expert Team
Founder & Medical Director
Dr Darren McKeown
Dr Darren McKeown (GMC 6128508) is renowned for his expertise and artistry with dermal fillers. As a Full Member of the British College of Aesthetic Medicine (BCAM), the UK’s leading professional body for aesthetic medicine doctors, and a peer-reviewed medical author, he is passionate about treatments that stand up to scientific scrutiny. Above all, he genuinely cares about helping each patient feel their most confident, natural self.
Medical Director, Women's Health
Dr Rhona Cameron
Dr Rhona Cameron (GMC 6103281), Medical Director of Women’s Health at McKeown Medical and a University of Glasgow-trained GP, is a skilled injector extensively trained in Dr McKeown’s signature intuitive technique. Her treatments blend advanced facial optimisation with powerful, energy-based devices, such as lasers, BBL, and radio frequency, energising the appearance and enhancing skin health.
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Founder & Medical Director
Dr Darren McKeown
Dr Darren McKeown (GMC 6128508) is renowned for his expertise and artistry with dermal fillers. As a Full Member of the British College of Aesthetic Medicine (BCAM), the UK’s leading professional body for aesthetic medicine doctors, and a peer-reviewed medical author, he is passionate about treatments that stand up to scientific scrutiny. Above all, he genuinely cares about helping each patient feel their most confident, natural self.
Medical Director, Women's Health
Dr Rhona Cameron
Dr Rhona Cameron (GMC 6103281), Medical Director of Women’s Health at McKeown Medical and a University of Glasgow-trained GP, is a skilled injector extensively trained in Dr McKeown’s signature intuitive technique. Her treatments blend advanced facial optimisation with powerful, energy-based devices, such as lasers, BBL, and radio frequency, energising the appearance and enhancing skin health.
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