Dear Dr. Ostad,

I quit a 30-year smoking habit two years ago but it has done a number on my face. I feel like my habit aged me! The worst part are the terrible lines around my lips that are making me feel really self conscious. I have been reading up on different procedures and am at a loss of how to get rid of them. Do you have any suggestions?

Michelle

Dear Michelle,

First, I want to congratulate you on putting an end to smoking. That is one of the best decisions you could have made for yourself and I want to commend you for it. You’re not wrong to think that smoking can age cells and the constant puckering around the mouth can lead to perioral lines, also known as smoker’s mouth. The good news is that we can do something to treat it. In fact, Allergan has just received FDA-approval for Volbella, a hyaluronic filler that is excellent for perioral lines and also lower eyelids. Volbella is a very smooth, thin filler that is able to get rid of fine lines on the face without causing swelling or bumps. It lasts approximately six to nine months, and unlike many other fillers on the market, it has been shown to stimulate collagen. I think this would be the ideal treatment for you.

Please feel free to contact my office with more questions.
Dr. Ostad