Bunny Lines & Mid-Face Transitions: Nasal Line Relaxation with Upper Cheek Skin Boosters

Many people searching for facial aesthetic treatments notice subtle lines on the sides or bridge of the nose — often referred to as bunny lines — and wonder whether these can be softened without disrupting natural facial expression. At the same time, the mid-face region, particularly the upper cheek area, is frequently where early signs of skin ageing first appear: a gradual loss of hydration, reduced skin elasticity, and the emergence of textural changes that can make the face appear tired or drawn.

Nasal line relaxation with upper cheek skin boosters is an increasingly discussed combination approach in aesthetic medicine. By addressing both the dynamic lines that appear across the nose during facial movement and the underlying skin quality in the transition zone between the nose and cheeks, practitioners can work to create a more harmonious, refreshed facial appearance.

This article explores bunny lines, what causes them, how nasal line relaxation works, what upper cheek skin boosters involve, who may be appropriate for assessment, and what patients can realistically expect. As with all aesthetic treatments, individual suitability should always be assessed during a professional consultation.

Bunny lines are the diagonal or horizontal wrinkles that appear on the sides or bridge of the nose when smiling, laughing, or scrunching the face. They are caused by repeated contraction of the nasalis muscle. Nasal line relaxation using anti-wrinkle injections can reduce their appearance, and when combined with upper cheek skin boosters, may also improve overall mid-face skin quality. Individual suitability requires professional assessment.

Bunny lines are small, dynamic wrinkles that form on the nose — typically running diagonally across the nasal bridge or along the sides of the nose — when a person smiles, laughs, squints, or wrinkles their nose. The term "bunny lines" has become widely used in the aesthetic community because the nose-scrunching expression they accompany is reminiscent of how a rabbit moves its nose.

These lines are considered dynamic wrinkles, meaning they appear primarily during facial movement rather than being permanently etched into the skin at rest — at least in the earlier stages. Over time, however, with repeated muscle activity and the natural reduction in skin elasticity that accompanies ageing, bunny lines can become more visible even when the face is relaxed.

It is worth noting that bunny lines are a naturally occurring feature of facial expression and are not a medical concern. Some individuals become more aware of them following anti-wrinkle treatment in adjacent areas — particularly the upper face — as the redistribution of natural facial muscle activity can sometimes draw more pronounced movement to the nasalis muscle.

Whether bunny lines represent a cosmetic concern worth addressing is entirely a personal decision, and one that is best explored with a qualified aesthetic practitioner during a thorough consultation.

The nasalis muscle is a small but active muscle that sits across the nose. Its primary function is to compress and flare the nostrils, and it is activated during many everyday expressions — smiling, laughing, sniffing, and nose-wrinkling being the most common. This repeated contraction over many years contributes to the formation of visible crease lines on the nasal surface.

The mid-face region — encompassing the area from the lower eyelids down through the cheeks to the nasolabial folds — is anatomically complex. It sits at the intersection of several important facial structures, including fat compartments, ligamentous support structures, and multiple overlapping muscle groups. The upper cheek, which lies just lateral to the nose, is part of this dynamic zone.

As we age, the mid-face undergoes a number of structural changes. Volume in the superficial and deep fat compartments begins to diminish. Ligamentous support becomes less taut. The overlying skin loses collagen and hyaluronic acid, reducing its natural hydration and resilience. These changes collectively contribute to the flattening of the upper cheek, the development of under-eye hollowing, and the appearance of lines and textural changes in the nasal-cheek transition zone.

Understanding this anatomy helps explain why a combined approach — addressing both the muscular activity causing bunny lines and the skin quality in the surrounding area — may be considered in some patients.

To understand why nasal line relaxation and upper cheek skin boosters may be considered together, it helps to understand the science of how dynamic wrinkles develop and how skin quality changes with age.

Dynamic wrinkle formation occurs when muscles repeatedly contract beneath the skin. Over time, the skin in the area above these muscles loses the elasticity needed to fully spring back after each contraction. The result is a gradually deepening crease that becomes more visible at rest as the years pass. In the case of bunny lines, it is the nasalis muscle's repeated activation that creates these characteristic diagonal or horizontal lines. If you would like a deeper primer on this mechanism, see how anti-wrinkle injections work on facial expression lines.

Collagen and elastin degradation are central to skin ageing. Collagen provides structural support and firmness, while elastin allows skin to recoil after stretching. From our mid-twenties onwards, collagen production naturally slows and existing collagen becomes more susceptible to breakdown — accelerated by UV exposure, environmental pollutants, and lifestyle factors such as smoking. As elastin degrades, skin loses its ability to recover from repeated movement, making dynamic lines more persistent.

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a naturally occurring molecule found throughout the skin and body. It has a remarkable capacity to attract and retain water — a single molecule can hold many times its weight in moisture. As we age, natural HA levels in the skin decline, contributing to reduced hydration, diminished plumpness, and the appearance of fine lines. Skin booster treatments containing hyaluronic acid or other biorevitalising agents work by replenishing this hydration in the dermis, improving the skin's overall quality and resilience from within.

Nasal line relaxation is a targeted anti-wrinkle treatment aimed at reducing the visible crease lines that appear on the nose during facial expression. It typically involves the precise administration of small amounts of a botulinum toxin product (commonly referred to as an anti-wrinkle injection) into the nasalis muscle, temporarily reducing its ability to contract as forcefully.

By gently softening the muscle's activity, the overlying skin experiences less repetitive folding, which can reduce the visibility of bunny lines — particularly those that are still predominantly dynamic rather than deeply static.

The treatment is considered a nuanced one. The nasal area requires careful anatomical assessment and precise injection technique because the muscle sits close to other important structures. Doses used in nasal relaxation are typically small, and the goal is to achieve a natural softening of expression rather than a frozen or unnatural appearance.

As with all anti-wrinkle treatments, results are temporary and will vary depending on individual muscle activity, injection placement, dose, and skin quality. It is important to have realistic expectations and to understand that multiple treatment sessions over time may be needed to maintain results.

You can explore more about anti-wrinkle injection treatments at Pantaleo Clinic to understand the broader treatment philosophy and approach used at the clinic. Where relevant, specific product choice is determined only after an individual clinical assessment and informed consent discussion.

Skin boosters are injectable treatments designed to improve skin quality, hydration, and texture from within the dermis rather than simply adding volume or reshaping contours. They are distinct from traditional dermal fillers, which are primarily used for volumisation and structural support. If you are comparing these approaches, this guide on how hyaluronic acid dermal fillers work may be useful.

In the context of the mid-face and upper cheek, skin boosters are used to address:

• Skin hydration and dryness in the cheek and nasal-cheek junction area
• Fine surface lines and textural irregularities
• Dullness or lack of radiance related to reduced skin vitality
• Early crepiness in the skin overlying the upper cheek

Skin booster formulations vary. Some contain highly purified hyaluronic acid at concentrations specifically designed for intradermal delivery rather than structural filling. Others may incorporate additional biorevitalising agents such as polynucleotides (PDRN), amino acids, antioxidants, or growth factors, depending on the product and clinical indication.

When administered into the upper cheek region, skin boosters work by gradually improving the dermis's moisture retention capacity and stimulating the skin's own repair mechanisms, contributing to a smoother, more hydrated, and refreshed skin appearance over time.

The number of sessions required and the interval between treatments depend on the product used, the individual's skin condition, and the practitioner's clinical assessment. Results from skin booster treatments tend to develop gradually and are generally considered cumulative.

You can read more about skin booster and biorevitalisation treatments available at Pantaleo Clinic.

The concept of combining nasal line relaxation with upper cheek skin boosters reflects an increasingly holistic view of facial aesthetics. Rather than treating isolated features in isolation, an experienced aesthetic practitioner may consider how different treatment modalities can complement one another to address multiple contributing factors simultaneously.

In the nasal and mid-face region specifically, this dual approach may offer a number of potential benefits when assessed as appropriate for an individual:

• Addressing both cause and context: Relaxing the nasalis muscle targets the muscular activity driving bunny line formation, while skin boosters work to improve the quality of the skin in the surrounding mid-face area.
• Improving the transition zone: The nasal-cheek junction — sometimes called a transition zone — is an area where skin quality, hydration, and texture can visibly impact the overall appearance of the face. Improving skin health in this area may help the results of nasal relaxation appear more harmonious.
• Supporting long-term skin health: Skin boosters do not simply provide a temporary cosmetic effect; many formulations stimulate the skin's own collagen and hydration mechanisms, contributing to gradual improvements in skin quality over time.

It is important to emphasise that this combination is not appropriate for everyone. Individual anatomy, skin condition, treatment history, and personal goals all influence whether a combined approach is suitable, and this can only be determined through a thorough assessment with a qualified practitioner.

This section is not intended to suggest that any reader requires treatment — it is simply an educational overview of the types of concerns for which professional assessment may be informative.

You may find it helpful to seek a professional consultation if you:

• Have noticed small diagonal or horizontal lines forming across the bridge or sides of your nose during facial expressions, and are curious about whether aesthetic treatment options exist
• Have developed bunny lines following previous anti-wrinkle treatment elsewhere on the face and would like to understand your options
• Are experiencing general changes in mid-face skin quality, such as reduced hydration, early crepiness in the upper cheek, or loss of skin radiance
• Are unsure whether the lines you are noticing on your nose are dynamic (expression-related) or static (present at rest), and would like guidance on what may or may not be appropriate
• Have questions about skin booster treatments and whether they could be relevant to your skin concerns

A qualified aesthetic practitioner can assess your individual anatomy, discuss your concerns without pressure, and provide honest, evidence-informed guidance about what options may — or may not — be appropriate for you.

Potential Benefits

When performed by an appropriately qualified and experienced practitioner and assessed as suitable for the individual, nasal line relaxation and upper cheek skin boosters may offer:

• A visible reduction in the appearance of bunny lines during facial expressions
• Gradual improvement in skin hydration and texture in the mid-face region
• A more refreshed and harmonious appearance in the nasal-cheek transition area
• Cumulative improvement in skin quality over a course of skin booster sessions
• A generally well-tolerated treatment experience with minimal downtime

Limitations and Important Considerations

It is equally important to understand the limitations:

• Results vary between individuals. Skin type, baseline muscle activity, skin quality, age, and lifestyle all influence outcomes, and no specific result can be guaranteed.
• Nasal line relaxation addresses dynamic lines more effectively than deeply static lines. Long-established, deeply etched lines may respond less fully to muscle relaxation alone.
• Skin boosters improve skin quality gradually. They are not volumising treatments and will not replace lost facial volume or lift sagging tissue.
• Results are temporary. Anti-wrinkle effects in the nasal area typically last several months. Skin booster effects vary by product and individual but generally require maintenance sessions to sustain.
• The nasal area requires precise technique. Treatment in this area should only be performed by appropriately qualified practitioners with demonstrable experience in mid-face anatomy.
• Combination treatments require careful planning. Not all patients are appropriate candidates for a combined approach, and individual assessment is essential.

Following any aesthetic treatment in the nasal or mid-face region, your practitioner will provide personalised aftercare guidance. General educational principles that are commonly recommended include:

Immediately following treatment: Avoid touching, rubbing, or applying pressure to treated areas for the first 24–48 hours Avoid strenuous physical activity and excessive heat (saunas, steam rooms, hot baths) for 24–48 hours following injections Sleep in an elevated position if possible on the first night following injectable treatments Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before and after treatment

Ongoing skin health: Sun protection is essential. UV exposure accelerates collagen breakdown and can counteract the benefits of skin booster treatments. A broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher should be applied daily, regardless of weather conditions. Hydration supports skin health. Adequate water intake, combined with a consistent skincare routine including a good moisturiser, can help maintain skin hydration between treatment sessions. A gentle, evidence-based skincare routine including products containing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and antioxidants may support and prolong the effects of professional skin booster treatments. Lifestyle factors matter. Smoking significantly accelerates skin ageing and reduces the benefits of collagen-stimulating treatments. Adequate sleep and a balanced diet also contribute meaningfully to skin health. Follow-up appointments as recommended by your practitioner are important to assess results, adjust treatment plans if needed, and ensure your ongoing care is appropriately managed.

• Bunny lines are dynamic wrinkles caused by repeated contraction of the nasalis muscle, appearing across the bridge or sides of the nose during facial expression.
• Nasal line relaxation using anti-wrinkle injections can temporarily soften the nasalis muscle's activity, reducing the visibility of bunny lines — particularly those that are still predominantly dynamic.
• Upper cheek skin boosters are injectable treatments designed to improve skin hydration, texture, and quality in the mid-face region, working from within the dermis.
• A combined approach addressing both muscular activity and skin quality may be considered in appropriate individuals, but suitability must be individually assessed by a qualified practitioner.
• Results vary between individuals and are influenced by anatomy, skin condition, lifestyle, and other factors. No guaranteed outcomes can be stated.
• Professional consultation is the essential first step before considering any aesthetic treatment, ensuring a personalised, safe, and evidence-informed approach to your care.

Are bunny lines a concern I should address, or are they natural?

Bunny lines are a completely natural feature of facial expression and present no medical concern whatsoever. Many people are entirely unbothered by them. Some individuals become more aware of them after receiving anti-wrinkle treatments in nearby areas such as the forehead or between the brows, as adjacent muscle activity can sometimes become more pronounced. Whether to explore treatment is a personal decision — one best made after an honest conversation with a qualified practitioner who can help you weigh your concerns and options without pressure.

How is nasal line relaxation different from other anti-wrinkle treatments?

Nasal line relaxation specifically targets the nasalis muscle to reduce the dynamic lines that form on the nose during expression. It requires a precise understanding of nasal anatomy and uses very small doses compared to treatment areas such as the forehead or crow's feet. The goal is subtle softening of expression rather than any form of structural change. It is typically a brief procedure but should only be carried out by a practitioner with appropriate qualifications, training, and experience in facial anatomy.

What are upper cheek skin boosters and do they add volume to the face?

Upper cheek skin boosters are injectable treatments designed to improve skin quality and hydration within the dermis of the mid-face area — they are not volumising treatments and do not add structural volume in the same way as traditional dermal fillers. Their primary purpose is to enhance the skin's moisture retention, improve texture and radiance, and support the skin's natural repair processes over time. Some formulations additionally stimulate collagen production. Results are gradual and cumulative, typically developing over several weeks and improving with a recommended course of sessions.

How long do results from nasal line relaxation and skin boosters last?

The effects of nasal line relaxation with anti-wrinkle injections are temporary. In the nasal area, results commonly last in the region of three to four months, though this varies considerably between individuals depending on muscle activity, metabolism, dose, and other factors. Skin booster effects are also temporary and typically require maintenance sessions — the frequency of which depends on the specific product used and your skin's individual response. Your practitioner will discuss a personalised maintenance plan during your consultation and follow-up appointments.

Are there any risks associated with these treatments?

As with all injectable aesthetic treatments, there are potential risks and side effects to be aware of. Common and generally short-lived effects following anti-wrinkle injections may include mild redness, swelling, or bruising at injection sites. In the nasal area specifically, incorrect technique can potentially affect adjacent muscle groups, impacting expression in unintended ways — which underlines the importance of choosing an appropriately qualified practitioner. Skin booster injections carry similar localised side effect risks. Serious complications are uncommon when treatments are performed correctly, but all risks should be thoroughly discussed during a pre-treatment consultation. Never proceed with treatment without a full and honest discussion of risks.

Can I combine nasal line relaxation and skin boosters in the same appointment?

Whether both treatments can be performed at the same appointment depends on individual clinical assessment, the specific products used, and your practitioner's clinical judgement. Some practitioners may choose to stage treatments to better assess the response to each individually, while others may consider a combined appointment appropriate in certain cases. This is not a decision that can be made in advance of a consultation — your practitioner will advise based on your specific anatomy, skin condition, treatment history, and personal goals.

Bunny lines and mid-face skin quality represent two distinct but interconnected concerns that many patients researching facial aesthetics encounter together. Nasal line relaxation using anti-wrinkle injections offers a targeted approach to reducing the dynamic lines that form across the nose during expression, while upper cheek skin boosters address the broader issue of skin hydration, texture, and quality in the surrounding mid-face region.

As an educational overview, this article has aimed to explain the underlying anatomy, the science of wrinkle formation and skin ageing, the nature of both treatment modalities, and what patients may realistically expect from each. Understanding the distinction between dynamic and static lines, the difference between volumising fillers and skin boosters, and the importance of anatomy-informed technique are all essential elements of making an informed decision.

The nasal and mid-face region is anatomically sensitive and demands both experience and careful clinical judgement. A combined approach to nasal line relaxation and upper cheek skin boosters may be a thoughtful and appropriate option for some individuals — but suitability must always be individually assessed. If you are considering these treatments, the most valuable step you can take is to seek a thorough, unhurried consultation with a qualified aesthetic practitioner who will listen to your concerns, assess your anatomy carefully, and provide honest, personalised guidance.

Treatment suitability, risks, and expected outcomes should always be assessed individually during a professional consultation.

To explore your options with the team at Pantaleo Clinic, you are welcome to arrange a consultation at a time that suits you.