Dermal Fillers for Nasolabial Folds

Dermal Fillers for Nasolabial Folds: A Comprehensive Guide from Rejuvenate Face

At Rejuvenate Face, our doctor-led aesthetic clinic is committed to offering personalised, minimally invasive treatments that help you achieve a refreshed, more youthful appearance. One of the most common concerns we address is the appearance of nasolabial folds—often called “smile lines” or “laugh lines.” These folds run from the sides of the nose down to the corners of the mouth and can deepen over time due to various factors, including ageing, skin laxity, and volume loss in the mid-face. Fortunately, dermal fillers offer a safe and effective solution to soften these lines and restore balance to your features.

Below, we will explain how dermal fillers can improve nasolabial folds by injecting directly into the lines themselves or adding volume to the mid-face and cheekbone area (indirect volumisation). We will also discuss the importance of proper technique, particularly given the vascular structures in this region, and how our experienced doctors ensure a safe, personalised treatment plan tailored to your needs.

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Understanding Nasolabial Folds

Nasolabial folds become more prominent over time for several reasons, including the natural depletion of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid and the repositioning of facial fat pads. As these supporting elements break down or shift, the skin loses its plumpness and elasticity, resulting in more pronounced folds around the nose and mouth.

Key Factors Contributing to Nasolabial Folds

1. Ageing: Reduced collagen and elastin lead to thinner, less elastic skin, making folds more noticeable.
2. Fat Pad Migration: Subcutaneous fat tends to move downward with age, exacerbating the appearance of nasolabial folds.
3. Repetitive Facial Movements: Smiling, laughing, and other expressions can contribute to deeper creases over time.
4. Hyaluronic Acid Loss: Naturally occurring hyaluronic acid helps to maintain moisture and volume in the skin but decreases with age.

 

By carefully restoring lost volume with dermal fillers, we can significantly soften these lines, create a youthful profile, and enhance overall facial harmony.

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Direct Filling of Nasolabial Folds

How It Works

Direct filling involves injecting dermal fillers—commonly hyaluronic acid-based products—directly into the visible creases running from the sides of the nose to the corners of the mouth. This technique is especially suited to individuals whose primary concern is the depth and appearance of nasolabial folds without significant volume loss in the mid-face.

1. Targeted Injection: We will place precise amounts of filler along the line to fill and lift the fold.
2. Immediate Result: The filler provides a structural “cushion,” reducing fold depth immediately.
3. Focused Approach: This method is most effective when the surrounding cheek area is still well-supported.

 

Benefits and Considerations

• Fast Correction: Ideal for those who want quick, localised improvement of the lines themselves.
• Natural Look: Our doctor-led team ensures that the amount of filler used complements your facial features, avoiding an overfilled appearance.
• Possible Limitations: If there is significant volume loss in the cheeks, relying solely on direct injections in the nasolabial area may not achieve the best long-term outcome.

 

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Indirect Volumisation: Mid-Face and Cheekbone

Restoring Mid-Face Volume

Many patients with pronounced nasolabial folds also have noticeable hollowing or sagging in the mid-face region. We can provide support from above by strategically placing dermal filler in the cheeks and along the cheekbones, thereby reducing the pull on the lower face. This technique is known as indirect volumisation.

1. Cheek Enhancement: Adding volume to the cheek area can subtly lift the lower facial tissues, minimising the depth of nasolabial folds.
2. Balanced Rejuvenation: We restore harmony by examining the overall facial architecture rather than treating just one area.
3. Reduced Need for Direct Filler: You may require less product along the nasolabial folds by elevating the mid-face.

 

Combining Techniques

Often, the most natural-looking result comes from a combination of direct filler in the nasolabial lines and volumisation in the cheeks:

• Holistic Approach: Addressing mid-face volume loss along with the folds ensures a more proportionate, youthful appearance.
• Longer-Lasting Results: Well-distributed fillers tend to wear more evenly, helping you maintain your refreshed look longer.
• Customised Plan: Our doctors will design a bespoke treatment strategy based on your anatomy, facial symmetry, and personal goals.

 

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Potential Risks and Vascular Safety

While dermal fillers are generally considered safe, especially when administered by highly trained professionals, the midface and nasolabial region have a complex network of blood vessels. The facial artery and its branches run near areas where fillers are commonly placed.

At Rejuvenate Face, we take every precaution to minimise risks:

1. Expert Knowledge of Anatomy: Our doctor-led team understands facial vascular structures in depth and will customise injection techniques to avoid critical vessels.
2. Safe Injection Methods: We use methods such as aspiration before injecting and may opt for blunt-tipped cannulas to reduce the risk of accidental arterial injection.
3. Immediate Intervention: If any vascular compromise is suspected, we are trained to administer hyaluronidase and other measures to mitigate potential complications promptly.

 

Your safety is paramount, and our commitment to continuous training and adherence to best practices ensures that you receive the highest standard of care.

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Our Approach at Rejuvenate Face

At Rejuvenate Face, we believe in delivering beautiful, long-lasting results through a personalised, doctor-led process. When you choose us for your nasolabial fold treatment:

1. Comprehensive Consultation: We will thoroughly assess your facial structure, medical history, and aesthetic goals.
2. Tailored Treatment Plan: Based on your needs, we will recommend either direct nasolabial fold injections or mid-face volumisation.
3. Premium Fillers: We use reputable, clinically tested dermal filler products known for their safety and efficacy.
4. Detailed Aftercare: We will provide clear aftercare instructions, schedule follow-up appointments, and remain available to address any concerns during your recovery.

 

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Conclusion

Dermal fillers offer an effective, minimally invasive method for softening nasolabial folds and revitalising the lower face. Whether your situation calls for direct treatment of the lines themselves, indirect volumisation of the mid-face, or a carefully balanced combination of both, our expert team at Rejuvenate Face will develop a plan that aligns with your aesthetic goals and preserves your natural appearance.

With a deep understanding of facial anatomy and a commitment to patient safety, we aim to deliver results that inspire confidence. Our patient-focused approach ensures that every stage of your treatment—from your initial consultation to your final aftercare visit—is conducted with professionalism, transparency, and genuine concern for your well-being.

Ready to take the next step? Contact Rejuvenate Face to schedule your consultation and learn how dermal fillers for nasolabial folds can transform your look without invasive surgery.