Most people associate Botox® with smoothing forehead lines and Crow’s Feet — and rightfully so. But what many don’t realize is that strategically placed Botox in the lower face can address several key signs of aging, including, early jowling, mild marionette lines, loss of volume in the lips, and neck bands.
In fact, lower face Botox® and neck Botox® are two of our most recommended treatments for clients looking for an overall reset and refresh in our boutique downtown Los Angeles med spa. The results are natural yet noticeable, downtime is minimal, and you’ll see a difference in about a week.
How Does Lower Face Botox® Work?
As we age, the muscles in the lower face gradually become stronger and more dominant, while the skin and underlying support structures lose elasticity and volume.
Over time, this combination can pull facial features downward, leading to a tired, tense, or even slightly sad appearance (i.e., a downturned mouth when the face is at rest). Botox®, as well as other neuromodulators, like Dysport® and Daxxify®, work by gently relaxing targeted muscles that contribute to this downward pull, allowing the face to appear more open, balanced, and refreshed.
What Lower Face Botox® Can Treat
Sagging Jawline
Botox® can play an important role in addressing early jowling. Jowls form as the skin loses elasticity and the muscles in the lower face pull downward over time.
One muscle that contributes to this effect is the platysma, a thin sheet of muscle that extends from the neck into the lower face. When the platysma contracts, it can pull the jawline downward, softening the definition between the jaw and neck. Carefully placed Botox® along this muscle reduces that downward pull, creating a more elegant, refined neck and jawline.
(This technique is also know as a “Nefertiti lift.”)
Botox® for Tech Neck
Another area on the neck that benefits from Botox® and similar neuromodulators is vertical neck bands — often known as tech neck.
Microinjections placed along the neck relaxes these bands, allowing the neck to look smoother and more refined. When combined with jawline treatments, the result are a noticeably more elegant and youthful lower face profile.
DAO Muscles (aka, sad or downturned smile)
A common complaint as clients age is downturned corners of the mouth — even when the face is at rest. This occurs when the depressor anguli oris (DAO) muscle becomes overactive.
A small amount of Botox® placed into this muscle relaxes that downward tension, softening the muscles and giving an almost instant refresh.
Lip Flip For Fuller Upper Lip and More Youthful Lower Face
A lip flip is a quick, non-surgical treatment that uses a small amount of Botox® to subtly enhance the upper lip. Rather than adding volume like dermal filler, a lip flip relaxes the muscles around the mouth, allowing the upper lip to gently roll outward. This helps reveal more of the upper lip, creating the appearance of a fuller, more defined smile.
And major bonus: A fuller upper lip can contribute to a more youthful and refreshed look, as the lips naturally lose volume and definition over time.
An Overall Reset
Beyond these specific concerns, Botox® in the lower face helps with other subtle refinements. It can soften a pebbled or “orange peel” chin, reduce excessive dimpling when speaking or smiling, and create a more balanced relationship between the lips, chin, and jawline. Because the lower face is highly expressive, treatments are typically precise and conservative to maintain natural movement and facial harmony.
Lower Face Botox® FAQs
How Long Does Treatment Take?
A typical lower face Botox® treatment or neck Botox® treatment takes about 10–15 minutes.
Most patients experience little to no downtime afterward, although small injection marks may be visible for a short period. Mild bruising is also possible, as with all injectable treatments.
When Will I See Results?
Results generally begin to appear within about seven days, with full effects developing over two weeks. The refreshed look typically lasts three to four months, after which maintenance treatments can help preserve results.
How Many Units Will I Need?
The number of units varies depending on muscle strength and treatment goals. Most lower face Botox® treatments use between 10 and 40 units.
Biggest Take Aways
One of the key advantages of lower face Botox® is that our downtown L.A. providers customize treatment to each individual’s facial anatomy and goals.
Some patients benefit from Botox® alone, while others may wish to combine it with treatments like dermal filler or skin tightening procedures to achieve more comprehensive rejuvenation.
Ultimately, a lower face refresh with Botox® is not about dramatically changing the face — it’s about restoring balance and softening the subtle forces that pull the face downward over time. By relaxing targeted muscles in the mouth, jawline, and neck, Botox® can help create a smoother, more lifted, and naturally refreshed appearance that still looks entirely like you — just well-rested and revitalized.
Ready for your Lower Face Botox® in downtown L.A?
Call our office at 213-640-4008 or book online here to schedule an appointment with one of our expert providers.