HYALURONIC ACID NASOLABIAL FOLDS

What is the nasolabial fold ?

The nasolabial fold, or “smile line”, is a wrinkle located on each side of the face and running from the wings of the nose down to the corner of the lips. Like any wrinkle that slopes downward, it gives a sad and tired appearance.
Medical treatments exist to address this aesthetic concern.

Contents

Key Points

Hyaluronic acid for nasolabial fold correction in Geneva

How to remove the nasolabial fold ? There are effective medical solutions to reduce the nasolabial fold, rejuvenate and refresh the face.
Hyaluronic acid injections fill the nasolabial folds and restore lost volume, this treatment also hydrates the skin and improves its elasticity. The results are immediate and natural.
Non-surgical lifting techniques, with thread lifts or hyaluronic acid, reposition the sagging facial tissues, thus improving the nasolabial fold.

It is recommended to complement these filling methods with skin densification techniques : laser, mesotherapy or Skinbooster.
This combination allows the nasolabial fold to be smoothed in a natural and long-lasting way.
It is essential to consult an experienced doctor to determine the most appropriate treatment depending on the skin type and the severity of the nasolabial fold. A personalized approach ensures optimal results for a harmonious and revitalized face.

photo causes wrinkles next to the nose

Why do I have nasolabial nasolabial folds ?

How do nasolabial folds form ? The nasolabial fold itself is a wrinkle that appears with age, however this line can be present in young people at rest and/or when smiling.
This aesthetic concern can be :

  • Constitutional : this is a false nasolabial fold. It is simply due to facial morphology and is often seen with prominent, low cheekbones . It can be softened, but should not be erased completely, as this would round out the face.
  • Related to aging and photoaging : the nasolabial fold appears around the age of thirty in both men and women.
    Over time, the fat located in the cheek area melts and gradually descends toward the jawline. The bone resorbs and no longer supports the tissues. The skin thins and loses elasticity.


External factors worsen the development of the fold : smoking, weight fluctuations, sun exposure, lack of sleep and hydration.

Nasolabial fold: symptoms and stages of severity

The nasolabial fold worsens over time. This phenomenon is influenced by factors such as age, genetics and repeated facial expressions.
At the early stage, the folds are visible only dynamically, for example when smiling. They are fine and shallow. Often, it is easy to reduce them with creams containing active ingredients such as retinol and hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid injections are strongly recommended to prevent their worsening.
At the moderate stage, the folds become more pronounced and are visible at rest. At this stage, hyaluronic acid injections are necessary to restore lost volume and smooth the skin.
At the advanced stage, the nasolabial folds are deep and permanent, accompanied by significant loss of volume and skin elasticity.
For an optimal result it is necessary to combine filling injections at the hollow with hyaluronic acid injections using the lifting technique.

How to get rid of nasolabial folds ?
Treatment of nasolabial folds

The treatment of the nasolabial fold is a frequent reason for consultation. Women request the treatment from their thirties onward ; men consult from their forties because they manage to hide it under their beard and consider it a charming feature.
Hyaluronic acid–based creams cannot make it disappear and makeup cannot camouflage it.
It is important to understand that this wrinkle must be softened and not erased in order to avoid rounding the face ; and that both sides are not symmetrical and never will be, perfect symmetry is not achievable and is not physiological anyway.

Indications for the treatment of nasolabial folds

The treatment of the nasolabial fold is possible in these indications :

  • Patients with very deep nasolabial folds.
  • Ageing of the midface.
  • Severe and tired appearance.
photo filling of the nasolabial fold by injection of hyaluronic acid

How to make the nasolabial fold disappear with hyaluronic acid ?

The hyaluronic acid is a biocompatible gel whose one of the uses is the treatment of wrinkles. Dr. Romano’s approach to the face is natural and physiological, any treatment must aim at correcting the causes of age-related changes and bringing the face closer to the proportions of perfect beauty (the beautiphication technique).
The treatment of the nasolabial fold is personalized and varies according to the patient’s anatomy and wishes.

There are several techniques .

  • The lift technique : the nasolabial fold is almost always due to the descent of the superficial malar fat. The 8-point lift technique, one of the variations of the MD Codes invented by the Brazilian plastic surgeon Mauricio di Maio, lifts the tissues through injections placed at strategic points to be adapted to each face. The injection is performed with a needle, the product is placed deep against the bone, and the hyaluronic acid used is firm and has lifting properties.
nasolabial fold photo filling by skinbooster injection
  • The wrinkle injection : wrinkle filling is often combined with the lifting technique for optimal results. In the treatment hierarchy, tissue lifting must come before wrinkle injection to avoid rounding the face. The only exception is the constitutional fold, seen in younger patients. In this case, injecting the fold alone is preferred.
    The injection is performed with a cannula (blunt-tip needle) for vascular safety, and the product is placed at various depths within the skin.
  • The bolus injection in the canine fossa : sometimes a hyaluronic acid injection is performed in the perinasal triangle. The product is dense and placed against the bone.

These techniques can be combined. The injection of the nasolabial fold, like all facial injections, is complex and requires an experienced eye, medical expertise and a perfectly mastered technique.

Procedure of hyaluronic acid injections to reduce the nasolabial folds

Hyaluronic acid injections are a quick, simple and effective procedure performed in a medical office.
An initial consultation precedes the treatment. The doctor analyzes the face to define the most suitable technique and product and discusses with the patient the expectations regarding the results. Before the injection, the skin is carefully disinfected.
Depending on the chosen technique, the approaches will be different : use of a cannula or a needle, injection of the wrinkle or lift technique.
The injection lasts between 5 and 10 minutes. The patient can resume normal activities immediately after.

Are nasolabial fold injections painful ?

Injections of the nasolabial folds are generally well tolerated and minimally painful. Most patients describe the sensation felt during the injection as a slight prick or temporary discomfort. To minimize pain, injectable products such as hyaluronic acid often contain a local anesthetic, such as lidocaine, which reduces the sensation of pain during the treatment.

Is nasolabial fold injection safe ?

The treatment is safe when performed by a doctor trained in the technique and experienced. Hyaluronic acid is a substance naturally present in the skin and resorbable, which guarantees safety.
Injections performed by non-physicians are dangerous : the risk is skin necrosis. Knowledge of anatomy and certain precautions, such as the use of the cannula, are essential.

Which hyaluronic acid for nasolabial folds ?

The acid used for the lift technique and the injection at the level of the canine fossa must be very firm, moderately volumizing and have a strong lifting power.
For the injection of hyaluronic acid at the level of the wrinkle, if the wrinkle is very superficial, the acid used will be injected very superficially and its particles will be very small. Dr. Romano uses a highly crosslinked hyaluronic acid in depth or a Skinbooster in the superficial dermis. If there is a reduction of fat in this area, the acid used will be volumizing and injected deeper.
The two techniques can be combined if needed, this is called the sandwich technique.

How to reduce nasolabial folds in men ?

Men, just like women, may want to correct the nasolabial folds.
The techniques used to reduce these creases are slightly different because of the characteristics of male skin, which is thicker and richer in collagen.
The hyaluronic acid used, for example, is often thicker and more crosslinked.
The performance of the procedure by an experienced doctor is important to avoid puffiness and feminizing the face.

photo treatment of nasolabial fold with sculptra injection

How to remove nasolabial folds ? Sculptra injections

The Sculptra is a stimulator of collagen synthesis.
This product is indicated for the improvement of the nasolabial fold if the patient presents a significant reduction in skin thickness and a reduction of fat in the cheek area (very hollow cheeks).
As prevention, it is a treatment that Dr. Romano offers to all patients after their thirties, whose action is synergistic with that of hyaluronic acid injections for slowing down facial aging.
The number of sessions and the areas to inject must be adapted to the patient’s anatomy.

Nasolabial fold before/after

The before / after photos of the correction of the nasolabial folds show convincingly the effectiveness of hyaluronic acid injections for this indication.
Before the injection, the nasolabial folds can give the face a tired and severe appearance, an impression of lost volume around the cheeks and mouth, and they age the face.
After the treatment, one observes the filling of the folds, a significant reduction in their depth and an overall rejuvenation.
The before / after photos demonstrate the rapid effectiveness of this non-invasive treatment, which restores a youthful and harmonious look to the face while respecting its characteristics.

Results of hyaluronic acid on the nasolabial folds

Injections to reduce nasolabial folds provide natural results : the face appears more rested, softer, and more harmonious. The folds will be reduced physiologically or completely erased, depending on the patient's request (which will be respected).
The lifting technique restores the triangle of youth and refines the jawline.
These results are highly appreciated for their subtlety and their ability to rejuvenate the face without altering its natural features.

How long does it take to see results after an injection ?

Results are visible immediately after the treatment. However, slight swelling or redness may appear in the treated areas, but these effects usually disappear within a few hours to a few days.
Final results are often fully visible after a few days, once the product has properly integrated into the skin tissues and any swelling has subsided.

How long does a nasolabial fold injection last ?

The duration of an injection for the nasolabial folds depends on the product used, but it is generally 9 to 18 months. Hyaluronic acid is naturally resorbed over time. This resorption can be influenced by individual factors such as skin type, the patient’s metabolism and lifestyle (sun exposure, smoking, etc.). Maintenance injections are required to preserve the results.

After-effects

Immediate aftereffects include slight swelling. Small hematomas are rare and usually resolve within a few days. Normal activities can be resumed immediately after the injections.

Price of a nasolabial fold injection

What is the price of an injection to reduce the nasolabial folds in Geneva ? The price varies according to several factors : the type of product used (notably firmness and crosslinking), the quantity required to effectively fill the folds and the technique employed.
The treatment of the nasolabial folds in Geneva can be performed with an injection of hyaluronic acid or Sculptra, depending on the correction needs and the skin type.
The injection of hyaluronic acid into the nasolabial folds, which is the most commonly used method, costs between 600 and 1200 CHF per session.
For a more gradual approach and a natural stimulation of collagen synthesis, Sculptra is also an effective option, at the price of 900 CHF per vial. The choice between these two products will depend on the medical evaluation, the depth of the fold and the patient’s expectations in terms of results and durability.

Can the formation of nasolabial folds be prevented ?

The formation of nasolabial folds is largely due to the natural aging process, the loss of volume and elasticity of the skin, as well as the sagging of the subcutaneous tissues. Although the appearance of these creases is inevitable with age, certain measures can help slow their formation and preserve the youthful appearance of the face for longer. Having an appropriate skincare routine, including the use of moisturizers, serums based on hyaluronic acid and products containing antioxidants such as vitamin C and retinol, can help maintain the skin soft and elastic. Daily sun protection is also essential to prevent damage caused by UV rays, which accelerate skin aging and promote the formation of wrinkles and folds.
A balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids, as well as good hydration, are also crucial for skin health. Moreover, avoiding skin stress factors such as smoking, alcohol and prolonged exposure to pollution can help prevent premature aging. Finally, adopting a healthy lifestyle, including regular physical activity, can contribute to delaying the appearance of nasolabial folds.

How to reduce nasolabial folds naturally ? Facial exercises

Facial gymnastics is a natural method whose effectiveness in reducing nasolabial folds has not been demonstrated. It is based on strengthening the facial muscles and improving cutaneous blood circulation, which, according to its followers, would help firm the skin when practiced regularly.
Among the most common exercises is the exaggerated smile held for a few seconds before releasing, to be repeated about ten times.
Another exercise, known as the “imaginary balloon”, consists of inflating the cheeks by filling the mouth with air, then slowly moving this air from one cheek to the other.
The “V of youth” is an exercise that targets more specifically the area around the lips : simply place two fingers of each hand at the corners of the mouth, pull slightly outward, then try to smile at the same time.

How do you detect the appearance of nasolabial folds ?

To detect the appearance of nasolabial folds, a simple method is to look at yourself in a mirror while smiling. Observe the line that connects the corner of your nose to that of your mouth. After you stop smiling, note how long this line remains visible. If the nasolabial folds persist for more than 3 seconds after you have relaxed the smile, these wrinkles are beginning to form and it is time to consider preventive or corrective measures.

Most treatments, including hyaluronic acid injections, are well tolerated and not very painful. 

Potential side effects include redness, swelling, bruising and temporary sensitivity in the injected area. These effects are generally mild and disappear within a few days.

The choice of treatment depends on several factors : the stage of severity of the fold, the skin type and the patient’s expectations. A consultation with an experienced doctor will allow discussing the different options and determining the most suitable treatment for the patient’s needs.

Sun protection is important in preventing the appearance of nasolabial folds because excessive exposure to UV rays accelerates the skin aging process.
By using a sunscreen with an appropriate protection index, you protect the skin against sun-induced damage and prevent collagen degradation.

Some targeted facial exercises can help tone the nasolabial fold area by strengthening the facial muscles.
These exercises are : the forced smile, circular movements with the cheeks and stretching of the facial muscles.

To conceal the nasolabial fold and make it less visible, start by applying a smoothing primer to even out the skin’s texture. Then use a concealer or a liquid foundation slightly lighter than your natural complexion to brighten the fold area. Avoid applying too much product, as this can accentuate the wrinkles.

Several habits are beneficial, but there is no real natural treatment to reduce nasolabial folds. The application of argan oil, aloe vera, facial massage and a diet rich in antioxidants are good habits. These methods moisturize the skin, stimulate collagen production and improve skin elasticity. These techniques do not replace medical treatments. 

The duration of the results depends on the chosen treatment. The benefits of hyaluronic acid injections can last between ten and twelve months, while the result of the laser treatment can last up to two years.

There is no specific age at which to start treating the nasolabial fold. Some people start treating these folds as early as their thirties, while others wait until they become more pronounced. A consultation with a doctor can help determine the most appropriate time to start treatment.

To reduce the nasolabial folds, it is recommended to use creams containing “anti-aging” ingredients : retinol, hyaluronic acid, peptides and antioxidants. These components stimulate collagen production, hydrate the skin and improve its elasticity.

Hyaluronic acid is a highly effective product for filling nasolabial folds, as it has the ability to retain water and deeply moisturise the skin. Injections of hyaluronic acid into the nasolabial fold restore lost volume, smooth the skin and reduce wrinkles.

Reviews of nasolabial fold treatments are generally positive, especially for hyaluronic acid injections, which provide immediate and natural results. Patients describe a significant improvement in the appearance of the folds. It is important to consult an experienced doctor to discuss the possible options and obtain optimal results.

It is possible to reduce the appearance of nasolabial folds without resorting to injections thanks to medical devices : radiofrequency and focused ultrasound (HIFU), which stimulate collagen production and improve the skin’s elasticity, thus softening the folds.

Injecting the nasolabial folds directly can sometimes lead to an unnatural result. Indeed, excessive correction can weigh down the midface. Often the lift technique precedes the injection of the fold.

The nasolabial fold is a line or crease that extends from each side of the nose to the corners of the mouth.

After a filling injection in the nasolabial folds, it is not necessary to massage the area as this has already been done by the injecting doctor. If massage is recommended by the doctor, it is advisable to perform a gentle massage using circular movements for a few minutes.

The leading treatment is the injection of hyaluronic acid.

Nasolabial folds are more likely to appear in people who are over forty, who have thin skin, a very expressive face or a loss of volume in the cheek area.

Weight loss does not reduce nasolabial folds; on the contrary, it can accentuate them.

Stress can contribute to the appearance of nasolabial folds indirectly. Chronic stress accelerates skin aging because it increases the production of cortisol, which is responsible for a decrease in collagen synthesis and elasticity. This can therefore worsen the nasolabial folds.

Excessive alcohol consumption can worsen nasolabial folds because alcohol dehydrates the skin. Alcohol can also promote collagen degradation.

Yes, hyaluronic acid is the most effective treatment for reducing nasolabial folds.

Nasolabial folds can add character, personality and are a sign of repeated smiles, therefore of a happy life.
However, when they become too pronounced, they can give a tired or aged appearance.

To prevent the formation or worsening of nasolabial folds during sleep, it is recommended to follow these tips : sleep on your back, use a silk or satin pillowcase, slightly elevate your head, keep the skin well hydrated before going to bed.

Other areas to be treated