High Cheekbones and Smile Lines: What to Know

Smile lines, also called nasolabial folds, run from the sides of the nose toward the corners of the mouth. Prominent cheekbones may create a sharper transition between the cheek and the fold. Repeated smiling, natural ageing, sun exposure, and facial volume loss can add to its visibility. The crease may be present when your face is relaxed or deepen during expression; both patterns can be assessed during a consultation.

Daily sunscreen, moisturising, and avoiding tobacco can support overall skin quality, although they cannot change the underlying bone structure. A clinician may discuss facial balancing rather than treating the line in isolation. Options can include Dermal Fillers, Collagen Biostimulator Injection, or a Thread Lift, depending on skin laxity, volume, anatomy, and your goals. Treatment should be planned conservatively because swelling, asymmetry, lumps, vascular problems, or infection are possible with procedures.

Arrange an assessment if the fold changes quickly, becomes painful, or is associated with a new lump, persistent redness, ulceration, or weakness on one side of the face. After an injectable or thread procedure, seek urgent medical help for severe or worsening pain, pale or dusky skin, vision changes, marked swelling, fever, or trouble breathing.

Ask which part of your anatomy is creating the shadow, whether facial volume loss is present, what result is realistic, and how the proposed treatment may affect your smile. Ask about alternatives, expected swelling, aftercare, warning signs, and the clinician's plan if a complication occurs.