What is a mouth corner lift?
The corners of the mouth turn down for several reasons, and they often overlap. A small muscle under each corner, the depressor anguli oris (DAO), pulls the mouth downward and can become overactive. With age, the corners also lose fatty support, and the skin and tissue of the lower cheek slide down, which deepens the shadow that runs to the chin — the start of marionette lines.
A non-surgical mouth corner lift addresses those causes one by one instead of using one product for everything. People usually ask for it because of:
- A resting face that looks sad, strict or tired
- Lip corners that sit lower than the middle of the lips
- Fine lines or creases running down from the corners
- Early lower-face sagging that pulls the mouth downward
It is a subtle treatment. The goal is a neutral or slightly lifted resting position that still looks like you, not a fixed smile.
Botox, filler or threads — matched to the cause
At the consultation the doctor watches your mouth at rest, while talking and while smiling, then chooses one method or a combination:
| Method | What it does | Best when | Typically lasts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Botox to the DAO | Relaxes the muscle that pulls the corners down | Corners drop more when you talk or frown | 3–4 months |
| Hyaluronic acid filler | Supports the corner and fills the small hollow beneath it | Volume loss, shadow at the corners | 6–12 months |
| Thread lift | Lifts sagging tissue beside the mouth and jawline | Jowls pull the corners down | 6–12 months |
Because a mouth corner lift is planned individually, there is no single fixed price. The doctor gives you a clear quote after the consultation, before anything is done. For reference, Korean-brand special-area Botox starts from ₩40,000 per area and lip filler from ₩200,000; see our dermal filler prices and Botox prices.
Prices in KRW, 10% VAT not included, updated September 2026. Mouth corner lift price confirmed after consultation.
What changes after a mouth corner lift
Filler and threads change the corners straight away, while Botox works gradually over 3–14 days. The result is meant to be quiet: a resting face that looks calmer and less tired. If deeper folds sit alongside the corners, the doctor may suggest treating the nasolabial folds at a later visit.
How a mouth corner lift visit works
- Doctor consultation We look at the corners at rest and in motion, and agree on the method and amount.
- Numbing Numbing cream for filler or threads; Botox alone usually needs only ice.
- Treatment Small, measured injections or threads, usually 15–40 minutes in total.
- Review A check-up after 2–4 weeks to look at symmetry and adjust if needed.
For a short trip, Botox and filler fit well into a single visit. If you are also considering lower-face lifting such as Ultherapy, tell us at the start — the order of treatments matters, and the doctor will plan the safest sequence for your stay.
Downtime, side effects and aftercare
The area around the mouth is small and moves constantly, so careful dosing matters more than speed.
- Common: pinpoint bruising, mild swelling and tenderness for 1–3 days; a slightly tight feeling when smiling while Botox settles.
- Less common: mild asymmetry of the smile, a small lump of filler that can be massaged or adjusted, or longer bruising after threads.
- Rare: Botox spreading to nearby lip muscles and affecting speech or drinking for a few weeks; filler blocking a blood vessel, which needs immediate treatment; infection.
Who should wait or tell the doctor first
We do not treat during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or with an active cold sore or infection near the mouth. Tell us about neuromuscular conditions, blood thinners, allergies, recent dental work and any previous filler or threads in the area.
Aftercare
Avoid pressing, massaging or lying face-down for the rest of the day, and skip saunas, alcohol and hard workouts for 1–2 days. If you notice increasing pain, colour change or blanching of the skin after filler, contact us on WhatsApp straight away.
Dr. Jimin Kang, Medical Director
Every mouth corner lift plan at Bailor starts with a face-to-face skin assessment by a doctor — not a sales counsellor. Dr. Kang's approach is "tailored, not templated": she chooses the product, dose and depth for your skin, and treats you herself or works alongside the other doctors on our in-house medical team.
Mouth corner lift FAQ
How much does a mouth corner lift cost in Gangnam?
The price is confirmed after consultation, because the plan may use Botox, filler, threads or a combination. For reference, special-area Botox starts from ₩40,000 per area and lip filler from ₩200,000, VAT excluded. See our dermal filler price list.
How long does a mouth corner lift last?
Botox to the corners typically lasts 3–4 months. Filler and threads usually last around 6–12 months. Many people maintain the result with Botox every few months.
Will it change my smile?
It should not freeze your smile. Doses are small and placed in the muscle that pulls the corners down. Temporary slight asymmetry can happen and is reviewed at the follow-up.
Is there downtime?
Botox alone has almost none. Filler may cause swelling and small bruises for a few days; threads can feel tight for up to a week.
Can I combine it with other treatments?
Yes. It is often combined with lip filler, chin filler or lower-face lifting. The doctor will advise what is safe to do on the same day.
