Why Does My Smile Look Weird After Fillers?

Imbalance Between Sides: Subtle asymmetries are normal in human faces, but overemphasizing these differences with fillers can make the smile appear uneven.

**Muscle Pull:** Fillers don’t change muscle structure. If the underlying musculature of the face is naturally asymmetrical or if certain facial expressions cause one side of the smile to pull more than the other, filler placement alone won’t correct this.

Lack of Blending: If the transition between the injected filler and surrounding tissue isn’t smooth, it can create a visible line or demarcation. This can make the smile look unnatural, especially when smiling.

Addressing these potential issues often involves a combination of careful technique during injection, using appropriate types and amounts of filler, and potentially undergoing touch-up appointments to refine the results.

Underlying Facial Anatomy

Muscle Movement Limitations

Understanding why a smile might appear “weird” after fillers requires delving into the complex interplay of facial anatomy and muscle movement.

The face is a dynamic structure supported by a framework of bone, surrounded by layers of fat, muscles, and skin. Key muscles responsible for smiling include the zygomaticus major and minor, which pull the corners of the mouth upward, and the levator anguli oris, which elevates the corners of the mouth.

Fillers are typically injected into these areas to add volume and plumpness, aiming to enhance the appearance of the smile.

However, filler placement can sometimes disrupt the natural movement of these facial muscles.

For instance, if filler is too deeply placed or in excess, it can restrict the muscles’ range of motion, leading to a less natural or “frozen” smile.

The amount and type of filler used also play a role. Certain fillers are designed to be more malleable than others, allowing for greater muscle flexibility.

Additionally, individual anatomy varies greatly. Some individuals have naturally stronger or looser facial muscles, making them more susceptible to changes in movement after filler injections.

Finally, the skill and experience of the injector are crucial. Precise placement and consideration of underlying muscle anatomy are essential to achieving a natural-looking result.

If you’re concerned about your smile appearing “weird” after fillers, consult with a qualified and experienced injector who can assess your individual case and recommend appropriate adjustments or solutions.

Facial Fat Redistribution

Facial anatomy is complex, involving interconnected muscles, bones, and soft tissues that contribute to our unique facial expressions and appearance. Understanding this underlying structure is crucial for comprehending how facial fillers can alter a smile.

The key elements contributing to the appearance of a smile include the zygomaticus major muscle, responsible for lifting the corners of the mouth; the orbicularis oculi muscle, which circles the eye and contributes to crow’s feet; and various facial muscles that facilitate subtle movements.

Beneath these muscles lies a layer of fat pads strategically positioned throughout the face. These fat pads provide volume, support, and contribute to the contours we perceive as youthful fullness. Over time, natural fat loss occurs due to aging, gravity, and other factors, resulting in thinner cheeks, flatter midface, and diminished facial definition.

Facial fillers are typically made of hyaluronic acid (HA), a substance naturally found in our bodies. HA attracts and retains water, effectively adding volume and plumping up the injected areas. This can rejuvenate areas that have lost volume, such as the cheeks or lips.

However, when fillers are placed near or within muscles responsible for smiling, unexpected changes in smile dynamics can occur.

For example, if filler is injected into the area above the corners of the mouth (the nasolabial folds), it can lift those areas and potentially cause the corners of the mouth to be pulled upward more forcefully when smiling. This may create an unnatural, exaggerated smile appearance, making it look too wide or gummy.

Conversely, if filler is placed directly into the zygomaticus major muscle itself, it can potentially restrict its movement, leading to a weaker or less noticeable smile.

Bone Structure Variations

Facial anatomy is complex, with variations in bone structure contributing significantly to individual facial appearances. Understanding these variations can help explain why smiles might appear different after filler injections.

Here’s a breakdown of key anatomical features and common variations:

1. Zygomatic Arch: The zygomatic arch, also known as the cheekbone, is formed by the zygomatic bone. Its shape and prominence influence the width and lift of the cheeks.
2. Maxilla: The maxilla is the upper jaw bone that forms the base of the nose and provides structure to the upper teeth. Variations in maxilla size and angle can affect lip shape and how well the smile “shows.”
3. Mandible: The mandible is the lower jaw bone. Its shape, length, and angle contribute to the definition of the jawline and the overall symmetry of the face.
4. Nasal Bones: These bones form the bridge of the nose and can affect how the upper lip appears in relation to the philtrum (the groove between the nose and upper lip).

Variations in these bone structures are common. For example:

• Some individuals have a more prominent zygomatic arch, leading to higher cheekbones.
• Others might have a flatter maxilla, resulting in a less defined Cupid’s bow (the dip in the upper lip).
• The length and angle of the mandible can vary, creating different jawline shapes and influencing how much space is available for fillers to be injected.

Filler injections aim to augment facial features by adding volume. However, if filler placement isn’t tailored to an individual’s unique bone structure, it might not achieve the desired outcome. This can lead to a smile appearing unnatural or “off.” For example:

• Injecting too much filler into a person with a naturally flat maxilla could result in a stretched, unnatural-looking upper lip.
• In individuals with a prominent zygomatic arch, overfilling the cheeks might create an overly rounded appearance and distort the smile lines.

It’s crucial for patients considering facial fillers to consult with experienced and qualified practitioners who carefully assess their individual anatomy before treatment.

Other Contributing Factors

Inflammation and Swelling

Beyond the immediate effects of filler placement, several other factors can contribute to changes in the appearance of your smile post-treatment.

Inflammation and swelling are common reactions to any injection, including dermal fillers. This fluid buildup can temporarily distort the shape of your face, making your smile look different.

Here’s a breakdown of how inflammation and swelling might affect your smile:

1. Initial Swelling:

After filler injection, expect some immediate swelling, usually peaking within 24-72 hours. This can cause the lips to appear plumper than intended, altering the symmetry and overall shape of your smile.

2. Displaced Fillers:

While uncommon, slight filler displacement due to movement or pressure during the initial swelling phase could contribute to an asymmetrical or unnatural-looking smile.

3. Changes in Facial Muscles:

Swelling can also affect surrounding facial muscles, potentially influencing how your lips move when you smile. This temporary change might feel unfamiliar and lead to a less familiar smile expression.

4. Bruising:**

Some bruising is common after filler injections. It may obscure the shape of your lips or create an unevenness that affects the appearance of your smile.

Keep in mind, these effects are usually temporary and subside within a week or two as the swelling resolves.

While you wait for the inflammation to subside, avoid strenuous activity, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and heat exposure, which can worsen swelling.

If you have concerns about your smile’s appearance after filler treatment, consult with your injector. They can assess the situation and offer reassurance or potential solutions to address any lingering issues.