How to Get Rid of Smile Lines Without Surgery: A Facial Doctor’s Guide to Looking Younger, Naturally

How to Get Rid of Smile Lines Without Surgery: A Facial Doctor’s Guide to Looking Younger, Naturally

By Dr. Sidney Raiski, DMD, Facial Aesthetics Expert & Cosmetic Dentist

Smile lines. Laugh lines. Nasolabial folds. No matter what you call them, they’re one of the first signs of aging most of us notice in the mirror—and one of the most common concerns I hear from my patients every single day.

But here’s the good news: You can treat them—and even prevent them—with non-surgical options that are fast, effective, and natural-looking.

As both a cosmetic dentist and facial aesthetics expert, I spend my days helping patients feel more confident in their smiles and facial appearance. And trust me—there’s no reason to fear aging when you have the right tools and techniques at your fingertips.

Let’s break it down.

 First, What Are Smile Lines?

Smile lines—also known as nasolabial folds—are the creases that run from the sides of your nose to the corners of your mouth. They're totally normal and are caused by a combination of:

• Facial expressions (hello, smiling!)
• Loss of collagen and elastin as we age
• Sun exposure
• Volume loss in the cheeks
• Lifestyle factors (like smoking or dehydration)

 Non-Surgical Ways to Soften Smile Lines

Here’s where it gets exciting: you don’t need surgery to reduce smile lines. Here are my top 4 doctor-approved, patient-loved options:

1. Dermal Fillers

My #1 go-to for softening smile lines. Hyaluronic acid fillers (like Juvederm or Restylane) restore lost volume and plump the area, smoothing the crease instantly. The treatment takes under 30 minutes and results can last 6–12 months.

Why patients love it:

• Instant results
• Minimal downtime
• Natural-looking when done right (read: you’ll still look like you—just fresher)

2. Cheek Augmentation with Fillers

Here’s a little secret: the key to treating smile lines often lies above them. By restoring volume to the midface/cheek area, we can lift the skin and reduce the depth of the folds—without directly injecting the nasolabial fold itself.

Think of it as lifting the foundation so the walls don’t crack.

3. Microneedling with PRP

This powerhouse combo boosts collagen production and improves skin elasticity over time. While the results are more subtle and take a few sessions, it’s ideal for patients who prefer a more natural, regenerative approach.

4. Preventative Botox

Botox isn’t just for forehead lines! When strategically placed around the mouth or upper cheeks, small amounts can reduce the movement that deepens folds over time. It’s not a treatment for everyone, but it can work wonders in the right hands.

 Bonus Tips: At-Home Care That Works

Great results start with great skin. For patients who want to boost their in-office treatments, I always recommend:

• Daily sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher!)
• A good retinol or peptide cream
• Staying hydrated
• Avoiding smoking
• Facial massage or gua sha to stimulate circulation

 Final Thoughts: You Don’t Have to “Fix” Your Face

Let’s be real—aging is a privilege. Smile lines are a sign of joy, expression, and a life well-lived. But if they bother you, you deserve options that are safe, subtle, and effective.

If you’ve been curious about what’s possible without surgery, let this be your sign to explore your options. I’m here to guide you—whether it’s with injectables, skin rejuvenation, or just the right skincare routine.

You deserve to feel confident in your skin. Let’s get you there—no scalpel required.

Dr. Sidney Raiski, DMD
Cosmetic Dentist | Facial Aesthetic Doctor
Boston, MA
Instagram: @sidneyraiski