Botox · Gummy smile
Gummy Smile Botox in Myeongdong, Seoul
If your upper lip lifts high and shows a band of gum when you smile, a tiny dose of Botox can lower it slightly, for a smile that shows more teeth and less gum.
Quick answer
Gummy smile Botox relaxes the muscles that lift the upper lip, mainly the levator labii superioris alaeque nasi beside the nose, so the lip rises a little less and shows less gum. It uses about 1–2 units per side, takes 5 minutes, shows within 1–2 weeks and lasts about 3–4 months. It suits a gummy smile caused by a strong lip lift, not by tooth or jaw shape.
What causes a gummy smile?
A gummy smile can come from a hyperactive upper-lip lifter, a short upper lip, small teeth or extra vertical growth of the upper jaw. Botox helps the first type by softening the lift. Dental or jaw causes need a dentist or surgeon, and we tell you honestly which applies.
Who is it for?
- More than about 3 mm of gum showing when you smile broadly.
- Gum show caused by a strong upper-lip lift rather than teeth or jaw shape.
- Not during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or with neuromuscular disorders.
How Obliv plans gummy smile Botox
Your doctor watches you smile fully, measures gum show and checks whether it is even or higher on one side. One point per side beside the nose is usually enough; doses start very low so the smile stays natural.
| Typical dose | About 1–2 units per side (onabotulinumtoxinA equivalent) |
|---|---|
| Technique | One point per side at the side of the nose |
| Pairs well with | Lip flip, lip filler |
Results and recovery
No downtime. The upper lip lifts a little less over one to two weeks; we review at two weeks for symmetry.
Risks and side effects
- An upper lip that looks slightly longer or a smile that feels different at first.
- Uneven smile if one side responds more; adjustable.
- Small bruise beside the nose.
Aftercare
- Avoid pressing or massaging the area for a few hours.
- Skip saunas and hard exercise on the day.
Botox by area
Every area has its own muscles, doses and risks. Choose an area for a doctor-reviewed guide, or read the Botox overview and our comparison with Xeomin.
Looking for volume rather than relaxation? See dermal fillers by area, or meet the doctors who plan every dose.
Ask a doctor about Botox
Send a photo and your travel dates on WhatsApp (+82-10-3086-4084). English replies, a personal plan and a written quote before you fly.
Frequently asked questions
Will gummy smile Botox make my smile look stiff?
Not with low, well-placed doses. You still smile fully; the lip simply lifts a little less.
How long does gummy smile Botox last?
Usually 3–4 months.
Can Botox fix every gummy smile?
No. It works when a strong lip lift is the cause. Tooth or jaw causes need a dental or surgical opinion.
Related treatments and guides
Last reviewed 2026-10-29. General information, not a diagnosis; your plan is set after an in-person consultation.