The injection of hyaluronic acid into the nasolabial folds is a common procedure aimed at softening the signs of aging and restoring a gentler, more relaxed facial expression. However, despite the minimally invasive nature of the treatment, some injections may prove unsatisfactory or even lead to temporary or longer-lasting side effects. A “failed” nasolabial fold injection is the result of an inappropriate product choice, an incorrect indication, or a poor injection technique.
Understanding the causes and manifestations of an improper correction is essential for both the physician and the patient, in order to identify the most appropriate solution : correction, monitoring, or, in some cases, product dissolution.
The nasolabial folds are areas that are both mobile and anatomically complex. They result from sagging of the midface tissues and a loss of bony and fatty support. Their treatment is not simply about “filling a wrinkle,” but about restoring volume harmony.
Poor consideration of this anatomical reality can lead to an unsatisfactory result, even if the technical gesture appears well executed. It is therefore crucial to distinguish between errors in product selection, technical mistakes, and temporary side effects.
A poorly performed or unsuitable injection may manifest through several types of undesirable outcomes, ranging from minor aesthetic discomfort to more serious complications. The main signs of a “failed” injection are :
Unesthetic or unnatural result :
Abnormal sensations or discomfort :
Rare but more serious complications :
Although hyaluronic acid is widely used for its quick and natural results, some injections may not achieve the expected effect. Several factors related to the product, the technique, or the patient can explain these failures.
When a hyaluronic acid injection does not deliver the expected result, there are fortunately several options to correct or improve the situation. Everything depends on the nature of the problem.
The physician’s experience plays a central role in the quality of the result. A perfect understanding of facial anatomy, combined with a personalized analytical approach, allows each injection to be adapted to the patient’s morphology and expectations. This expertise ensures a natural, harmonious, and long-lasting result, without overcorrection or stiffness of expression.
The success of the treatment also relies on collaboration between the patient and the physician. It is essential that the patient :
Clearly expresses their aesthetic expectations in order to define a realistic and appropriate goal.
Reports any medical history or ongoing treatment to ensure the safety of the injection.
Understands that the purpose of the filling is not to completely erase the folds or freeze facial features, but to restore a balanced and natural facial dynamic.
Finally, the use of high-quality hyaluronic acids, selected according to skin type, fold depth, and tissue mobility, is a key factor for success. Combined with a well-mastered technique, this standard ensures a reliable, discreet, and long-lasting result. In Geneva, consulting an experienced physician thus guarantees patients a safe treatment and results that meet their expectations.
A failed injection of the nasolabial fold does not exclude the possibility of a successful later correction. A reinjection may be considered, but only under certain conditions. It is essential that the initial product has had time to partially or completely resorb. It is also necessary to wait for the complete disappearance of any local reaction, whether it is inflammation or edema. Finally, the causes of the failure must be precisely analyzed, whether it is an inappropriate product choice, a technical error, or a poorly chosen injection plan. When retreatment is possible, it must be entrusted to an experienced physician.
While most failed injections stem from technical errors or poor procedural choices, some situations are linked to post-treatment behaviors that compromise the result. These include excessive massage of the injected area, exposure to heat (sauna, steam room, intense exercise) within 48 hours, use of anticoagulant or anti-inflammatory medications not disclosed to the injecting physician beforehand, lack of follow-up, or failure to follow medical instructions.
The patient’s active involvement in adhering to post-injection guidelines is an essential condition for the success and longevity of the treatment.
Unfortunately, some failed nasolabial fold injections occur after procedures performed by unauthorized individuals, beauticians, self-injections, or unqualified practitioners operating in countries with more permissive regulations. These situations expose patients to multiple dangers, such as the use of non-compliant products, poor hygiene conditions, or increased risks of infection, necrosis, and even irreversible damage. In Switzerland, only physicians trained in aesthetic-oriented medicine are authorized to perform hyaluronic acid injections. In the event of harm, medical and legal recourse can be sought through the competent health authorities.
Article written by Dr Romano Valeria
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