Marionette line.
Line from the corner of the mouth to the chin that makes the face look serious or tired. Treated with hyaluronic acid, occasionally complemented by botulinum toxin.
Marionette line in the lexicon: origin in volume loss and muscle pull at the corner of the mouth, treatment with hyaluronic acid
A closer look.
The marionette line runs vertically from the corner of the mouth towards the chin – named after the jaw lines of marionette puppets. It arises from the interplay of volume loss in the lower third of the face, decreasing skin elasticity and the pull of the depressor anguli oris muscle, which draws the corners of the mouth down.
Hyaluronic acid supports the tissue at the corner of the mouth and along the line; often the chin or jawline is stabilised as well so that less pull acts on the region. If the muscle pull is pronounced, a small dose of botulinum toxin in the depressor can relieve the corners of the mouth.
Durability is six to twelve months. Deep lines that have existed for years are softened, not erased. As in all mobile areas a conservative amount matters so the smile is not changed.
This lexicon entry is general information and does not replace the medical consultation required under German law (§ 630e BGB).
At a glance.
A question about Marionette line? Send us a short WhatsApp message – we usually reply the same working day.
Ask via WhatsAppFrequently asked questions.
Why do I look sad with it?
Because drooping mouth corners and the line create the same expression as sadness – the brain reads it automatically as mood.
Is hyaluronic acid alone enough?
Usually yes. With strong muscle pull the combination with botulinum toxin makes sense – a medical decision.
Sources and further reading.
- NHS: Dermal fillers – patient information
- MPDG – German medical devices act (fillers are medical devices)
- BfArM – Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices
- DGPRÄC – German Society of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons
- § 630e BGB – duty to inform before treatment (German Civil Code)
- DGBT – German Society for Aesthetic Botulinum Toxin Therapy
- AWMF – German clinical practice guidelines
External links open in a new window; their operators are responsible for their content. Medical responsibility for this page: Katayoun Mostaghimi, specialist in general medicine. Last updated: 2026-10-05.
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