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Smile Line Treatment with Dr. John Hilinski

What are Smile Lines?

Smile lines, also known as nasolabial folds or laugh lines, are the natural skin creases located where the upper lip meets the cheek. These lines often become more pronounced with age or due to genetics, contributing to an aged or tired appearance. As you smile or laugh, these lines can deepen, making them more noticeable even when the face is at rest. Deep smile lines often lead patients to seek treatment to soften their appearance.

Dr. John Hilinski, a board-certified facial plastic surgeon in San Diego, specializes in the treatment of deep smile lines. Using advanced techniques, he offers both temporary and permanent solutions to improve facial symmetry and create a refreshed, youthful appearance.

Non-Surgical Smile Line Treatment

One of the most common treatments for deep nasolabial folds is the injection of dermal fillers. These fillers, such as Restylane®, JUVÉDERM®, Radiesse®, and Artefill®, work by adding volume beneath the skin, effectively pushing the crease outward and making the smile line less visible.

Restylane® and JUVÉDERM®

Temporary fillers that typically last 6-12 months.

Radiesse®

A longer-lasting filler that can last up to 18 months.

Artefill®

A more permanent option for those seeking long-term correction.

Dr. Hilinski is known for his precision in filler placement, providing natural-looking results that reduce shadowing and soften deep creases. For many patients, injectable fillers offer a quick, non-invasive solution to rejuvenate their smile lines.

A close-up image of the lower part of a man's face showing a neutral expression, focusing on the mouth and chin, against a blue background.
Close-up of the lower half of a man's face and neck, showing subtle facial hair and a slightly visible Adam's apple against a blue background.
Close-up of a man's lower face with slight stubble and a neutral expression, wearing a light-colored shirt, against a blue background.
Close-up of the lower half of a person's face with stubble, wearing a brown sweater with a gray seam, set against a blue background.

Permanent Smile Line Treatment

For patients seeking a more permanent solution, surgical excision of smile lines is an option. This procedure involves carefully removing the deep folds and realigning the skin to create a smoother appearance.

Surgical excision of smile lines offers:

  • Permanent correction for deep smile lines.
  • A hidden scar that blends into the natural crease between the cheek and lip.
  • A one-time procedure compared to the need for repeated filler treatments.

Dr. Hilinski performs this procedure under local anesthesia in an accredited surgical center, and patients typically return home the same day.

A man smiling while a person in blue gloves touches his face against a gray background.

Benefits of Smile Line Treatment

Before-and-after comparison showing a man's face. The left image highlights laugh lines with red lines, while the right image shows reduced laugh lines.

Immediate and noticeable results

Whether using fillers or opting for surgery, patients see immediate improvement in the appearance of their smile lines.

Customizable treatment

Depending on the severity of the lines, treatment can be tailored to achieve the desired outcome.

Natural results

Dr. Hilinski’s expertise ensures that treatments result in a natural, refreshed look, avoiding the overfilled or overly tight appearance.

Smile Line Treatment FAQs

Smile lines, or nasolabial folds, are the creases that form between the nose and mouth. These lines deepen with age or repetitive facial movements.

Fillers like Restylane® and JUVÉDERM® are popular for temporary correction, while surgical excision provides a permanent solution for deep smile lines.

Injectable fillers involve minimal discomfort, and surgical smile line excision is performed under local anesthesia to ensure patient comfort.

Temporary fillers can last between 6-18 months, depending on the product. Permanent options like Artefill® do not require repeated treatments.

Most patients can resume normal activities within 7-10 days after surgical excision, with minimal swelling or bruising.

Yes, surgical smile line correction offers a permanent solution. However, normal aging may continue to impact the appearance of surrounding skin over time.

Yes, many patients combine smile line treatments with other facial rejuvenation procedures like facelifts or eyelid surgery for a more comprehensive result.

Smiling man with short hair wearing a blue suit and white shirt stands against a blurred indoor background.

Dr. Hilinski's Credentials

Dr. John Hilinski is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon with extensive experience in facial rejuvenation procedures. He holds certifications in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Head and Neck Surgery. A graduate of Harvard Medical School, Dr. Hilinski completed his residency at UCSD Medical Center, where he specialized in facial cosmetic procedures. With a commitment to patient care and surgical precision, he is recognized for delivering natural, lasting results in smile line correction and other facial surgeries.

In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Hilinski is a respected contributor to the field of facial plastic surgery, with numerous publications in medical journals and book chapters on surgical techniques. His dedication to patient education, safety, and comfort is evident in every step of the treatment process, from the initial consultation to post-operative care. Patients consistently praise Dr. Hilinski for his honest, transparent approach and his commitment to delivering natural-looking, long-lasting results.

Meet Dr. John Hilinski

Schedule a Consultation With Dr. John Hilinski in San Diego

If you’re considering smile line treatment and want to explore the best options for your unique needs, scheduling a consultation with Dr. John Hilinski is the first step. During your consultation, Dr. Hilinski will evaluate your facial structure, discuss your goals, and recommend a personalized treatment plan. With his expertise in both non-surgical and surgical options, Dr. Hilinski will help you achieve a natural, refreshed look.

To schedule your consultation, contact our office today and take the first step toward a more youthful appearance.

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San Diego, CA 92121

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