DAO Botox NYC

DAO Botox: How Many Units? Injection Points? All You Need to Know about Botox in DAO Muscle on the UES, NYC

If you’re curious about nonsurgical treatments to restore your smile or lift downturned corners of the mouth, you may have come across something called DAO Botox.

But what is DAO Botox, and how can it help refresh your appearance without a lower facelift or plastic surgery?

At Smooth Synergy® Medical Spa and Laser Center in Manhattan’s Upper East Side (UES), we specialize in precision cosmetic injectables, including Botox in the DAO muscle.

Here’s our comprehensive guide including FAQs such as results, units, injection sites, side effects, and complications, courtesy of the best MedSpa in New York City.

What is DAO Botox? What is the DAO Muscle?

Before we talk about DAO Botox, let’s get clear about what exactly we mean by DAO. Specifically, DAO stands for Depressor Anguli Oris, which is a muscle that pulls the corners of the mouth downward. With age and repeated use of this muscle, the face and mouth can become permanently frozen or fixed in a frowning or tired expression.

This cosmetic injectable procedure involves injecting Botox in the DAO muscle to soften its pull, as well as diminish its strength. As a result, the corners of the mouth will appear more lifted and the chin smoother, producing a more relaxed and youthful smile.

Botox in the DAO Muscle: How Does It Work for a Downturned Mouth?

Considering DAO Botox for a drooping mouth? If so, you’re probably also noticing signs of Marionette Lines (aka Puppet Lines) — those vertical lines that stretch from the corners of the mouth down toward the chin and jawline. Specifically, these lines can resemble parentheses around the mouth, which tend to deepen with time. 

Often emerging in your 40s, they gradually become more etched and pronounced in your 50s and beyond. Eventually, they may blend into the jawline and chin, contributing to the appearance of sagging jowls.

What Leads to Marionette Lines? What Causes Sagging Jowls?

The main factors involved in Marionette Lines, saggy jowls, as well as lines and creases around and under the mouth are:

• Repetitive Expression: The Depressor Anguli Oris (DAO) muscles are responsible for pulling the corners of the mouth downward. Over time, repeated frowning or downward expressions can leave behind a permanent crease — even when your face is at rest.
• Facial Anatomy: The way your facial muscles, fat pads, and bone structure are naturally arranged plays a significant role in how and where lines develop.
• Genetics: Everyone’s skin ages differently. Some people are more predisposed to volume loss or skin laxity in certain areas due to their genetic makeup.
• Lifestyle Habits: Sun exposure, smoking, and other environmental stressors can accelerate the aging process, speeding up the development of fine lines and wrinkles.
• Loss of Soft Tissue: As we age, the fat and connective tissues in the face diminish, which contributes to sagging skin, folds, and hollow areas — especially around the mouth and jawline.
• Bone Resorption: With age, the bones beneath our facial structure slowly shrink. This reduces the support for the overlying skin and tissue, increasing the likelihood of sagging, volume loss, and deeper facial folds like Nasolabial Folds and Marionette Lines.

How Does Neurotoxin Injection Work on Downturned Mouth and/or Marionette Lines? 

The injections target a specific area of the lower face. By relaxing the muscles at the corners of the lips and around the mouth, Botox reduces the downward pull. As a result, it’s highly effective for

• Improving the appearance of a downturned mouth
• Reducing the appearance of marionette lines,
• Decreasing the look of sagging jowls,
• Smoothing out fine lines, wrinkles and creases,
• Enhancing facial harmony, and 
• Subtly lifting the mouth corners 

Can DAO Botox be Combined With Other Treatments?

Yes! And it often is combined with a Dermal Filler. Here’s why:

While Botox can soften the appearance of a downturned mouth by relaxing the DAO muscles, its impact is solely for a downturned mouth, as opposed to specifically correcting wrinkles or folds that may be running underneath the mouth.

That’s because DAO Botox is ONLY indicated for skin issues that are caused by the expression of the muscle. In many cases, the downward pull at the corners of the mouth isn’t about targeting muscle activity alone. It’s also about restoring volume in surrounding areas like the midface, jowls, lips, and chin.

In these cases, a Dermal Filler can address structural support and volume loss, helping lift and smooth the area more effectively than Botox alone.

DAO Botox Before and After: What to Expect?

Curious about DAO Botox before and after results? Many of our clients report a noticeable improvement in their smile and facial expressions within 3-7 days after treatment.

• Before DAO Botox: Corners of the mouth may appear downturned or tired
• After DAO Botox: A softer, more neutral or lifted appearance with improved facial balance

How Many Units of Botox for DAO?

DAO Botox units are typically 2-4 per side. It’s important to note that results typically vary based on individual anatomy. Our injectors at Smooth Synergy® in the Upper East Side will assess your facial structure and tailor treatment accordingly.

How Long Does DAO Botox Last?

Botox results typically last 3-4 months, depending on:

• Extent of skin aging
• Individual facial structure
• Individual metabolism of botulinum toxin
• Muscle strength

To maintain your desired appearance and even lead to longer-lasting results over time, consistency of treatment is key.

All Your Botox FAQS answered

Botox At-A-Glance

What is the DAO Botox Cost in NYC?

Looking for DAO Botox near me on the Upper East Side or in Manhattan? Injectables at Smooth Synergy® are competitively priced and includes a full consultation to ensure you receive the best possible results.

What DAO Botox Injection Site & Technique Does Your Injector Use?

The DAO Botox injection site is located near the jawline, at the lower corners of the mouth. Because this muscle is close to other facial and mouth muscles, precise placement is key to avoiding DAO Botox complications.

DAO Botox Gone Wrong? Side Effects? Complications? Risks? Why Choose Our Manhattan Medical Spa?

While neuromodulators, such as Botox, are generally safe, inexperienced injectors can cause issues like crooked smiles or difficulty with mouth movement. 

Put simply: expertise matters. A licensed and experienced injector at a medical spa can ensure your treatment is safe, effective, and tailored to your unique facial anatomy. At Smooth Synergy®, Manhattan, we prioritize patient safety and satisfaction, using the latest techniques to deliver beautiful, natural results. 

How to Find a Master Injector in NYC? 

Finding the best Botox doctor near you can ensure you receive the right amount of Botox in the right areas. As a result, you’ll get  the DAO botox results you’re looking for. Specifically, it’s important to make sure your provider has a proven track record of injecting Botox on many patients.  

Our expert injector, Dr. George Liakeas, uses a refined DAO Botox injection technique to achieve natural-looking results with minimal discomfort and downtime. He knows exactly where to inject DAO Botox, as well as how to minimize the risks and side effects, such as asymmetry or unintended muscle weakness.

Who’s the Best Doctor in NYC for Cosmetic Injectables?

With so many nonsurgical options for facial rejuvenation available, it’s important to see an experienced doctor, who:

• Has knowledge about how different formulations work for particular skincare concern
• Takes your individual anatomy and extent of aging into consideration
• Has expertise about where to inject product to get the Botox and filler results you’re looking for
• Knows how much product to be injected to achieve natural results.
• Can advise the right maintenance schedule to extend these results.

Our Medical Director and Master Injector, George Liakeas, MD ticks all these boxes. He’s been using Cosmetic Injectables for 20 plus years.

Why Choose The Expert Injector at Smooth Synergy® Medical Spa, NYC?

Smooth Synergy® Medspa & Laser Center’s Medical Director, Dr. George Liakeas, brings over 20 years of experience in administering cosmetic injectables. A trusted medical physician with a sharp eye for aesthetics, Dr. Liakeas excels at understanding the contours of the face. He knows exactly where to inject Botox and fillers to achieve the results you’re seeking.

Dr. Liakeas uses an optimized injectable protocol — careful injection technique and expert post-care — to maximize safety and deliver results

• 20+ years experience in aesthetic injectables and facial rejuvenation
• Personalized treatment planning based on facial anatomy and aesthetic goals
• Proven results and patient satisfaction with meticulous aftercare

He has a knack for understanding the face and knowing where to place neurotoxin injectables to make you look your best. He’s known for achieving natural-looking, youthful results without a “frozen” appearance.

His individualized approach ensures that each Botox treatment plan is tailored to your unique facial anatomy and beauty goals. Smooth Synergy® Medical Spa in Manhattan is consistently rated one of the top Botox providers in NYC for both expertise and patient satisfaction.

Where to Get DAO Botox Near Me? Why Choose Smooth Synergy®, Manhattan?

Since 2002, Smooth Synergy® Medical Spa and Laser Center, UES, Manhattan  has been a trusted name in NYC skincare. Whether you’re curious about DAO Botox injection points, DAO Botox smile transformation, or you want expert advice on Botox for marionette lines, we’re here to guide you.

If you’re searching for “Botox near me” or “top Botox NYC,” look no further than Smooth Synergy® Medical Spa. We provide personalized skincare consultations to determine the most effective treatment for your unique needs. Clients from the Upper East Side, Midtown East, Gramercy and beyond trust us for their treatment needs.

Why Choose Our Upper East Side Medical Spa?

• Smooth Synergy® is a top-rated provider of Botox in New York.
• Opening in 2002, we were among the first to offer inectables in NYC.
• Medical Director and Master Injector Dr. George Liakeas personally oversees a highly trained team of estheticians and skincare professionals.
• Over 200 positive reviews on Yelp and Google.
• We offer unparalleled customer service and personalized care.

With a personalized approach that targets the root cause of your skin concerns — whether that’s muscle activity, volume loss, or skin laxity —  you can achieve a more balanced, rested, and confident appearance.

If you’re ready to explore your nonsurgical / noninvasive treatment options, book a consultation with an Expert in Beauty who understands facial anatomy and can tailor a plan that fits your goals. 

Call Smooth Synergy® Medical Spa on the Upper East Side at 212-397-0111 to learn more about our full range of cosmetic injectables, including neurotoxins: Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, and dermal fillers: Juvederm, Restylane, Juvederm, and Belotero. Schedule your consultation at Smooth Synergy® Med Spa on the Upper East Side today and let an Expert in Beauty help you put your best face forward in New York City.

DAO Botox FAQs

What is DAO Botox best used for?
DAO Botox is ideal for lifting the corners of the mouth, softening a downturned expression, and improving marionette lines—all without surgery.

How long does DAO Botox take to work?
Results typically appear within 3 to 7 days, with full improvement visible by two weeks post-injection.

Is DAO Botox painful?
Most patients report only mild discomfort during treatment. A numbing cream can be applied to improve comfort if needed.

Can DAO Botox be combined with fillers?
Yes! Combining DAO Botox with dermal fillers (like Juvederm or Restylane) can restore volume in deeper folds and enhance overall results.

What are the side effects of DAO Botox?
Side effects are generally mild and temporary—such as slight bruising or swelling at the injection site. Rarely, incorrect placement can cause asymmetry.

Is there downtime after DAO Botox?
No significant downtime is needed. Most clients resume normal activities right after the procedure.

How do I know if I’m a good candidate?
If you’re experiencing a tired or sad appearance due to a downturned mouth—but want a nonsurgical fix—DAO Botox may be a great option. A consultation at Smooth Synergy® will confirm the best approach for you.

How often will I need treatment?
To maintain results, DAO Botox typically needs to be repeated every 3 to 4 months.