How to fix · Skin concerns

How to fix marionette lines
a lifted, softer lower face

Marionette lines run downward from the corners of the mouth toward the chin, often making the face look sad or tired. They form when the mid- and lower face lose support, so lifting combined with gentle volume works best.

Non-surgical Lift then fill Natural expression Minimal downtime
S
Medically reviewed by Dr. Steve Soohwan Seong, JIA Clinic Gangnam
Last updated
Woman with a relaxed, lifted mouth area among green leaves – marionette line treatment at JIA Skin Clinic Seoul
Lift · Support · Soften lower-face balance
Quick answer

How do you get rid of marionette lines without surgery?

Marionette lines respond best to a combined approach. Lifting the mid-face and jawline with HIFU or a PDO thread lift reduces the drag on the mouth corners; a small amount of hyaluronic filler softens the groove immediately, typically for around 6–12 months; and Botox can relax the muscle that pulls the corners down. Sculptra adds gradual, longer-term support.

Approach Lift + volume
Downtime None to a few days
Results visible Immediate to gradual
Results last Varies, ≈ 6–18 months
Areas Mouth corners · chin
Why marionette lines form

Gravity meets the lower face

These lines are rarely just a skin crease — they reflect changes in volume, support and muscle pull around the mouth.

Mid-face descent

As the cheeks lose support, tissue moves down and gathers beside the mouth.

Collagen & elastin loss

Thinner skin folds more easily into a lasting line.

Volume shifts

Fat thins above and gathers lower, deepening the groove and creating jowls.

Muscle pull & genetics

The depressor muscle draws mouth corners down; some faces show this earlier.

Most effective options

Treatments we combine for marionette lines

Lifting comes first; filling is gentle and precise:

  • Hyaluronic acid fillers – soften the groove and restore support
  • Mid-face / cheek filler – lifts tissue that pulls the corners down
  • Botox (DAO) – relaxes the muscle that turns corners downward
  • Sculptra – PLLA collagen support for the lower face
  • PDO thread lift – lifts the lower face and softens fold depth
  • Shurink or Ultherapy – tightens deeper layers
  • Skin boosters – improve fine lines and hydration around the mouth
Visible change

A lighter, more relaxed expression

Illustration of softened marionette lines after non-surgical treatment at JIA Skin Clinic – after
Illustration of softened marionette lines after non-surgical treatment at JIA Skin Clinic – before
Before After
Illustrative image for explanation only — not an actual patient result. Individual results vary; your doctor will discuss realistic outcomes at consultation.
Your visit

What to expect at your visit

Lower-face assessment

We look at cheek support, jawline, muscle pull and skin quality.

Lift-first plan

Lifting, volume and muscle relaxation are balanced; costs are explained up front.

Precise treatment

Numbing and fine techniques keep treatment comfortable; mild swelling is common.

Refine

Filler shows change at once, collagen and lifting improve over weeks; we review and refine.

Is it right for you?

Who is a good candidate?

  • Downturned mouth corners or a sad look at rest
  • Early jowls or lower-face heaviness
  • Deepening nasolabial folds alongside marionette lines
  • Mid-face volume loss
  • Anyone wanting non-surgical lower-face rejuvenation
Good to know

Good to know

  • Mild swelling or bruising can last a few days after filler or threads
  • Avoid massaging the area, saunas and alcohol for a few days
  • Overfilling the mouth area can look heavy — we keep it conservative
  • Heavy jowling may be better addressed surgically — we will advise honestly
  • Not suitable during pregnancy or with active cold sores or infection near the mouth
FAQ

Marionette line questions, answered

What is the best filler for marionette lines?

A soft-to-medium hyaluronic acid filler is common, often combined with cheek support. The exact product depends on depth and skin thickness.

Can Botox help marionette lines?

Botox in the depressor muscle can lift downturned corners slightly. It works best combined with filler or lifting rather than alone.

How long do marionette line results last?

Filler typically lasts around 6–12 months in this mobile area, and HIFU or threads around a year. Sculptra may last longer. Results vary.

Are marionette lines and jowls the same thing?

They are related but different. Marionette lines are the grooves beside the mouth; jowls are the heaviness along the jaw. Both come from lower-face sagging and are often treated together.

Is there downtime?

Usually minimal. Most people return to normal activities the next day, with mild swelling settling in a few days.

How do I book a marionette line consultation in Seoul?

Send us a WhatsApp message at +82-10-6396-5671 with your concern and preferred dates. We reply in English with availability and a VAT-inclusive quote.

Visit JIA Clinic

Plan your lower-face refresh

English-speaking consultations, transparent VAT-inclusive pricing and a doctor-led plan for every patient. Message us on WhatsApp for availability and a quote.

Address
5F SH Tower, 331 Bongeunsa-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
Subway
1-min walk from Seonjeongneung Station, Exit 1
Hours
Mon·Thu 10–19 · Tue·Fri 10–21
Wed 13–18 · Sat 10–16 · Sun/holidays closed
WhatsApp
+82-10-6396-5671
Languages
English · Korean