Sometimes is seems there is no limit to the new uses doctors will find for Botox (and its Johnny-come-lately-cousin, Dysport).
On ABC's medical talk show yesterday, Dr. Drew (the show's resident plastic surgeon) demonstrated a technique that can minimize an overly "gummy" smile. With this method, Botox is injected into the muscle responsible for lifting the lip into a smile. The nerve impulses that tell the lip to lift are weakened, and voila--less gum showing!
The side-by-side before and after photos showed what I personally felt was little difference. Yet of course, the patient treated on the show was very happy with her results. (Otherwise I'm guessing they might have opted to skip the segment altogether.)
If you have a too-gummy smile and feel you would be happy with a slight-moderate improvement that lasts 3-6 months, then this procedure may be worth looking into. However, it is important to understand that Botox injections are not without risk, especially when used in the area around the mouth.
If you choose to go for it, be very careful to choose a doctor who has extensive experience using Botox for this specific procedure. If you make the wrong choice, and the doctor over-injects or injects in the wrong place (which could be within just a couple millimeters of the right place), and you could be left unable to smile at all until the Botox wears off in about 3-6 months.
See plastic surgery before and after photos.
This is a great technique. For about $50, subtle smile alterations can be achieved with Botox/Dysport. The results are real and are natural. My patients have been thrilled.