Gummy Smile Botox in Seoul: Treatment, Results & Duration
Micro-dose Botox that relaxes the upper-lip elevator muscles so less gum shows when you smile — a 5-minute, non-surgical treatment.
Gummy smile Botox uses small doses of botulinum toxin to relax the overactive muscles that lift the upper lip too high, so the lip covers more of the gums when smiling. The injection itself takes about 5 minutes and most people return to daily activities immediately. Early change appears in 3–5 days, the full effect in 7–10 days, and results usually last about 8–12 weeks before repeat treatment is needed.
What is gummy smile Botox?
A "gummy smile" shows a large band of gum above the upper teeth, often because the muscles that elevate the upper lip are strong or overactive. Small doses of a neuromodulator relax these muscles temporarily, so the upper lip:
- Lifts less when smiling
- Covers more of the gums
- Creates a softer, more balanced smile line
A gummy smile caused mainly by excess gum tissue, jaw position or tooth length may need dental or surgical evaluation instead.
Who is a good candidate?
- People whose smile shows too much gum because of upper-lip muscle activity
- Anyone wanting a subtle, non-surgical correction
- First-time patients looking for a low-commitment, reversible-over-time option
The doctor assesses lip length, muscle activity and gum visibility before deciding the dose, so your smile still looks natural and expressive. Suitable for both men and women.
Real result: Lip filler
This photo shows a lip-area result (lip filler). Gummy smile Botox changes how high the upper lip lifts when smiling rather than lip volume.
What to expect
- Consultation in English focusing on your smile pattern
- Micro-dose injections at key points beside the nose and upper lip
- Immediate return to daily activities
Total treatment time is about 5 minutes. You may feel brief pinpricks; small red marks usually fade within hours. Over-relaxation can temporarily make the smile look flatter, which is why conservative dosing is used.
Results and timeline
| Stage | Timing |
|---|---|
| Early improvement | 3–5 days |
| Full effect | 7–10 days |
| Duration | About 8–12 weeks |
Because the dose is small, effects wear off sooner than forehead Botox; regular maintenance keeps results consistent.
Aftercare
- Avoid touching or massaging the area for 24 hours
- Avoid using straws for several hours
- No intense exercise or sauna for one day
Reviewed by Dr. Joo Sohee
Representative director of Nest Clinic Gangnam, a doctor-led aesthetic clinic with a female medical team that treats local and international patients. This page is reviewed for medical accuracy; it is general information, not a diagnosis. Treatment plans are decided after an in-person consultation.
Clinic treatment counts as reported by Nest Clinic. About the clinic
Frequently asked questions
How long does gummy smile Botox last?
Usually about 8–12 weeks, because only small doses are used around the upper lip.
When will I see results?
Early improvement appears in 3–5 days and the full effect in about 7–10 days.
Does gummy smile Botox hurt?
Most people feel only brief pinpricks; the treatment takes about 5 minutes.
Will my smile look unnatural?
Conservative dosing aims to keep natural expression. If the effect feels too strong, it gradually wears off.
Is Botox enough for every gummy smile?
No. If the gummy smile is caused by excess gum tissue or jaw structure, dental or surgical options may be more suitable.
Planning gummy smile Botox in Seoul?
Send us a photo and your goals — a doctor reviews it and our English-speaking coordinator replies with a personalised plan and price.
4F–5F Seocho Building, 453 Gangnam-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul
1-min walk from Sinnonhyeon Station Exit 7 (Line 9)
7–10 min from Gangnam Station Exit 10/11
+82-10-4843-2867
