The nasolabial fold, also known as the “smile line,” is a wrinkle located on each side of the face, running from the wings of the nose down to the corners of the mouth. Like all downward-oriented wrinkles, it gives the face a sad and tired appearance. Medical treatments are available to address this aesthetic concern.
How to eliminate the nasolabial fold ? There are effective medical solutions to soften 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. Results are immediate and natural.
Non-surgical lifting techniques — using threads or hyaluronic acid — reposition sagging facial tissues, thereby improving nasolabial folds.
It is recommended to combine filling techniques with skin densification treatments : laser, mesotherapy, or Skinbooster.
This combination allows for a natural and long-lasting smoothing of the nasolabial fold.
It is essential to consult a qualified doctor to determine the most suitable treatment depending on the skin type and severity of the fold. A personalized approach ensures optimal results for a harmonious and revitalized face.
How are nasolabial folds formed ? The nasolabial fold itself is a wrinkle that appears with age. However, this line may be present in younger individuals at rest or when smiling.
This aesthetic concern may be :
External factors worsen the development of the fold : smoking, weight fluctuations, sun exposure, lack of sleep and hydration.
Nasolabial folds worsen over time. This phenomenon is influenced by factors such as age, genetics, and repeated facial expressions.
Early stage : folds are only visible dynamically, when smiling for instance. They are fine and shallow. They can often be reduced with creams containing active ingredients such as retinol and hyaluronic acid. Injections are highly recommended at this stage to prevent progression.
Moderate stage : folds become more prominent and are visible even at rest. In this case, hyaluronic acid injections are necessary to restore lost volume and smooth the skin.
Advanced stage : the folds are deep and permanent, associated with significant volume loss and decreased skin elasticity.
For optimal results, the hollow is filled, and a lifting technique with hyaluronic acid is combined.
Detailed stages :
Treatment of nasolabial folds is a common reason for consultation. Women usually seek treatment in their thirties, while men tend to consult from their forties — often concealing the fold with facial hair or seeing it as a sign of character.
Creams with hyaluronic acid cannot eliminate the fold, and makeup cannot fully hide it.
It is important to understand that :
Hyaluronic acid is a biocompatible gel, one of whose uses is the treatment of wrinkles. Doctor Romano’s approach to the face is natural and physiological. Every treatment must aim to correct the causes of age-related changes and bring the face closer to ideal beauty proportions ( beautiphication technique). The treatment of the nasolabial fold is personalized and varies depending on the patient's anatomy and expectations.
There are several techniques.
These techniques can be combined. Nasolabial fold injection, like all facial injections, is complex and requires an experienced eye, medical expertise, and perfectly mastered technique.
Hyaluronic acid injections are a quick, simple, and effective procedure performed in a medical office.
An initial consultation precedes the procedure. The doctor analyzes the face to define the most suitable technique and product, and discusses the patient’s expectations.
Before the injection, the skin is carefully disinfected.
Depending on the chosen technique, the approach will vary : use of a cannula or a needle, wrinkle injection or lifting technique.
The injection takes between 5 and 10 minutes. The patient can resume normal activities immediately afterward.
Nasolabial fold injections are generally well tolerated and not very painful. Most patients describe the sensation felt during injection as a slight sting or temporary discomfort. To minimize pain, injectable products such as hyaluronic acid often contain a local anesthetic, such as lidocaine, which reduces pain during the procedure.
The treatment is safe when performed by a qualified and experienced doctor. Hyaluronic acid is a substance naturally present in the skin and is resorbable, which ensures safety.
Injections performed by non-doctors are dangerous : the risk is skin necrosis. Knowledge of anatomy and precautions such as the use of a cannula are essential.
The acid used for the lifting technique and the injection in the canine fossa must be very firm, moderately volumizing, and have strong lifting power.
For hyaluronic acid injection at the wrinkle level, if the wrinkle is very superficial, the acid will be injected very superficially and will have very fine particles. Doctor Romano uses a hyaluronic acid such as Restylane or Skinboosterr.
If there is a reduction in fat in the area, the acid will be volumizing and injected more deeply.
If needed, both techniques can be combined — this is called the sandwich technique.
Men, like women, may want to correct their nasolabial folds.
The techniques used are slightly different due to the characteristics of male skin, which is thicker and richer in collagen.
The hyaluronic acid used is often thicker and more cross-linked.
Having the procedure performed by an experienced doctor is important to avoid overfilling and feminizing the face.
Sculptra is a collagen synthesis stimulator.
This product is indicated for improving nasolabial folds in patients with significantly reduced skin thickness and fat loss in the cheeks (very hollow cheeks).
As a preventive treatment, this is something doctor Romano recommends to all patients over the age of thirty. Its action is synergistic with that of hyaluronic acid injections in slowing facial aging.
The number of sessions and the injection areas must be adapted to the patient’s anatomy.
Before/after photos of nasolabial fold correction clearly demonstrate the effectiveness of hyaluronic acid injections in this indication.
Before the injection, nasolabial folds can give the face a tired and severe look, suggest volume loss around the cheeks and mouth, and contribute to an aged appearance.
After treatment, the folds appear filled, their depth is significantly reduced, and there is an overall rejuvenation.
Before/after photos confirm the fast effectiveness of this non-invasive treatment in restoring a youthful, harmonious appearance to the face — while respecting its unique features.
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.
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.
The duration of a nasolabial fold injection depends on the product used, but it generally lasts from 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 necessary to preserve the results.
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.
What is the price of an injection to reduce nasolabial folds in Geneva ? The price varies depending on several factors : the type of product used (especially its firmness and cross-linking), the amount needed to effectively fill the folds, and the technique performed. In general, the injection of hyaluronic acid in the nasolabial folds, which is the most commonly used method, costs between 600 and 1200 francs per session.
| Type of consultation | Generally practiced rates |
|---|---|
|
Hyaluronic acid for
|
600 CHF per syringe |
|
Sculptra
|
900 CHF per vial
|
The formation of nasolabial folds is largely due to the natural aging process, volume loss, reduced skin elasticity, and sagging of subcutaneous tissues. Although the appearance of these lines is inevitable with age, certain measures can help slow their development and preserve a youthful look longer. Using a proper skincare routine that includes moisturizers, serums with hyaluronic acid, and antioxidant-rich products such as vitamin C and retinol can help maintain soft and elastic skin. 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 proper hydration, are also crucial for skin health. Additionally, avoiding skin stressors 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.
Facial exercises are a natural method whose effectiveness in reducing nasolabial folds is not scientifically proven.
By strengthening the facial muscles and improving blood circulation, these exercises, when practiced regularly, are said to firm the skin.
One of the simplest exercises is to smile exaggeratedly for a few seconds, then relax. Repeat this movement ten times.
Another exercise is the “imaginary balloon” which involves inflating the cheeks by filling the mouth with air, then slowly moving the air from one cheek to the other.
The “V of youth” is a targeted exercise where you place two fingers of each hand at the corners of the lips, then gently pull outward while trying to smile.
A simple way to spot the appearance of nasolabial folds is to look in the mirror while smiling. Look at the line between the corner of your nose and the corner 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 let go of the smile, these wrinkles are beginning to form and it's 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 severity of the furrow, the type of skin and the patient's expectations. A consultation with a qualified doctor will enable the different options to be discussed and the treatment best suited to the patient's needs to be determined.
Sun protection is important in preventing the appearance of nasolabial folds, as excessive exposure to UV rays accelerates the skin ageing process.
By using a sunscreen with an appropriate protection factor, you can protect your skin from sun damage and prevent collagen breakdown.
Certain targeted facial exercises can help tone the nasolabial fold area by strengthening the facial muscles.
These exercises include forced smiling, circular movements with the cheeks and stretching the facial muscles.
To make up the nasolabial fold and make it less visible, start by applying a smoothing base to even out the skin's texture. Then use a concealer or liquid foundation slightly lighter than your natural skin tone to brighten up the crease area. Avoid applying too much product, as this can accentuate wrinkles.
Many habits are beneficial, but there really is no natural treatment for reducing nasolabial folds. The application of argan oil, aloe vera, facial massage and a diet rich in antioxidants are good resolutions. These methods hydrate the skin, stimulate collagen production and improve skin elasticity. These techniques do not replace medical treatment.
How long the results last depends on the treatment chosen. The benefits of hyaluronic acid injections can last between ten and twelve months, while the results of 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 appearance of nasolabial folds, we recommend using creams containing 'anti-ageing' ingredients: retinol, hyaluronic acid, peptides and antioxidants. These ingredients stimulate collagen production, moisturise 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, particularly for hyaluronic acid injections, which give immediate, natural results. Patients describe a significant improvement in the appearance of the folds. It is important to consult a qualified professional to discuss possible options and achieve 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, thereby reducing wrinkles.
Injecting directly into the nasolabial folds can sometimes lead to an unnatural result. Excessive correction can make the median part of the face look heavier. Often the lift technique precedes the injection of the furrow.
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, have thin skin, a very expressive face or a loss of volume in the cheeks.
Weight loss does not reduce nasolabial folds; on the contrary, it can accentuate them.
Stress can indirectly contribute to the appearance of nasolabial folds. Chronic stress accelerates skin ageing because it increases cortisol production, which is responsible for a drop in collagen synthesis and elasticity. This can exacerbate nasolabial folds.
Excessive alcohol consumption can worsen nasolabial folds because alcohol dehydrates the skin. Alcohol can also promote the breakdown of collagen.
Yes, hyaluronic acid is the most effective treatment for reducing nasolabial folds.
Nasolabial folds can add character and personality, and are a sign of repeated smiles and a happy life.
However, when they become too pronounced, they can give a tired or aged appearance.
To avoid the formation or worsening of nasolabial folds during sleep, we recommend following these tips:
The services described on this website apply to Swiss territory; there are differences between countries.
Contact
Dr Valeria Romano
Pl. du Molard 5, 1204 Geneva, Switzerland
Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 6pm
Dr Valeria Romano - All rights reserved.
