The nasolabial fold, or "smile line", is a wrinkle on either side of the face that runs from the bridge of the nose to the corner of the mouth. Like any wrinkle that runs downwards, it gives a sad, tired appearance. Medical treatments exist to treat this unsightly appearance.
How do you remove the nasolabial fold? There are effective medical solutions for reducing the nasolabial fold, rejuvenating and refreshing the face.
The hyaluronic acid injections fills nasolabial folds and restore lost volume, this treatment also hydrates the skin by improving its elasticity. The results are immediate and natural.
The techniques of non-surgical faceliftusing tensor threads or hyaluronic acid, reposition ptotic facial tissues by improving so the nasolabial fold.
It is advisable 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, long-lasting way.
It is essential to consult a qualified doctor to determine the most appropriate treatment for your skin type and the severity of the nasolabial folds. A personalised approach guarantees optimal results for a harmonious, revitalised face.
How are nasolabial folds formed? The nasolabial fold itself is a wrinkle that appears with age, although this line can be present in young people at rest and/or when smiling.
This unsightliness can be :
Extrinsic factors aggravate the development of the nasolabial fold: smoking, weight changes, sun exposure, lack of sleep and hydration.
The nasolabial fold worsens over time. This phenomenon is influenced by factors such as age, genetics and repeated facial expressions.
Visit early stageThe folds are only visible when you smile, for example. They are fine and shallow. They are often easy to reduce with creams containing active ingredients such as retinol and hyaluronic acid. Injections of hyaluronic acid are strongly recommended to prevent them worsening.
Visit moderate stageAt this 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.
Visit advanced stageNasolabial folds are deep and permanent, accompanied by a significant loss of skin volume and elasticity.
For optimum results, it is necessary to combine filling injections in the hollow and hyaluronic acid injections in a lifting technique.
The stages in detail.
Treatment of the nasolabial fold is a frequent reason for consultation. Women seek treatment from their thirties onwards; men consult us from their forties onwards because they are able to hide it under their beard and consider it a charming asset.
Hyaluronic acid-based creams cannot make it disappear, and make-up cannot camouflage it.
It is important to understand that :
L'hyaluronic acid is a biocompatible gel used to treat wrinkles. Dr Romano's approach to the face is natural and physiological, and any treatment must aim to correct the causes of age-related changes and bring the face closer to the proportions of perfect beauty (technique of beautiphication).
Treatment of the nasolabial fold is personalised and varies according to the patient's anatomy and wishes.
There are several techniques.
These techniques can be combined. Nasolabial fold injections, like all facial injections, are complex and require an experienced eye, medical know-how and a perfectly mastered technique.
Hyaluronic acid injections are a fast, simple and effective procedure carried out in a doctor's surgery.
An initial consultation precedes the procedure. The doctor analyses the face to determine the most suitable technique and product, and discusses expectations regarding results with the patient.
Before the injection, the skin is carefully disinfected.
Depending on the technique chosen, different approaches will be used: cannula or needle, wrinkle injection or lift technique.
The injection takes between 5 and 10 minutes. Patients can resume their usual activities immediately afterwards.
Nasolabial fold injections are generally well tolerated and not very painful. Most patients describe the sensation experienced during the injection as a slight stinging or temporary discomfort. To minimise pain, injectable products such as hyaluronic acid often contain a local anaesthetic such as lidocaine, which reduces the sensation of pain during treatment.
The treatment is safe when carried out by a qualified and experienced doctor. Hyaluronic acid is a substance that is naturally present in the skin and is absorbable, which is a guarantee of safety.
Injections carried out by non-doctors are dangerous: the risk is skin necrosis. Knowledge of anatomy and certain precautions, such as the use of a cannula, are fundamental.
The acid used for the lift technique and the injection into the canine fossa must be very firm, moderately volumising and have significant lifting power.
For the injection of hyaluronic acid into wrinkles, 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 hyaluronic acid such as Restylane or Skinbooster. If there is a reduction in fat at this level, the acid used will be volumising and injected deeper.
The two techniques can be combined if necessary, in what is known as a sandwich technique.
Both men and women may want to correct nasolabial folds.
The techniques used to reduce these folds 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 cross-linked.
It is important for the procedure to be carried out by an experienced doctor to prevent the face from becoming puffy and feminised.
Le Sculptra stimulates collagen synthesis.
This product is indicated for improving the nasolabial fold if the patient has a significant reduction in skin thickness and a reduction in cheek fat (very hollow cheeks).
As a preventive measure, Dr Romano offers this treatment to all patients over the age of thirty, which works in synergy with hyaluronic acid injections to slow down the ageing of the face.
The number of sessions and the areas to be injected should be adapted to the patient's anatomy.
The before and after photos of the correction of nasolabial folds convincingly demonstrate the effectiveness of hyaluronic acid injections in this indication.
Before the injection, nasolabial folds can give a tired, severe appearance to the face, an impression of lost volume around the cheeks and mouth and age the face.
After treatment, the furrows are filled in, their depth is significantly reduced and there is an overall rejuvenation effect.
The before-and-after photos demonstrate the rapid effectiveness of this non-invasive treatment in restoring a youthful, harmonious appearance to the face while respecting its characteristics.
Injections to reduce nasolabial folds offer natural results: the face appears 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 lift technique restores the youthful triangle and refines the oval.
These results are highly appreciated for their discretion and their ability to rejuvenate the face without altering its natural features.
Results are visible immediately after treatment. However, slight swelling or redness may occur in the treated areas, but these effects generally disappear within a few hours to a few days.
The final results are often fully visible after a few days, once the product has fully integrated into the skin tissue and any swelling has subsided.
The duration of a nasolabial fold injection depends on the product used, but is generally between 9 and 18 months. Hyaluronic acid resorbs naturally 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 maintain results.
The immediate after-effects are marked by slight swelling. Small haematomas are rare and do not last more than a few days. Normal activities can be resumed immediately after the injections.
How much does an injection to reduce nasolabial folds cost in Geneva? The price varies according to several factors: the type of product used (particularly firmness and cross-linking), the quantity needed to effectively fill the furrows and the technique used. In general, the injection of hyaluronic acid into the nasolabial folds, which is the most commonly used method, costs between 600 and 1,200 francs per session.
| Type of consultation | General rates |
|---|---|
|
Hyaluronic acid
|
CHF 600 per syringe |
|
Sculptra
|
CHF 800 per bottle
|
The formation of nasolabial folds is largely due to the natural ageing process, the loss of skin volume and elasticity, and the sagging of subcutaneous tissue. Although the appearance of these folds is inevitable with age, certain measures can help to slow their formation and preserve the youthful appearance of the face for longer. Adopting the right skincare routine, including the use of moisturisers, hyaluronic acid serums and products containing antioxidants such as vitamin C and retinol, can help keep skin supple and elastic. Daily sun protection is also essential to prevent damage caused by UV rays, which accelerate skin ageing and encourage the formation of wrinkles and furrows.
A balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids, as well as good hydration, are also crucial to skin health. In addition, avoiding skin stress factors such as smoking, alcohol and prolonged exposure to pollution can help prevent premature ageing. Finally, adopting a healthy lifestyle, including regular physical activity, can help delay the appearance of nasolabial folds.
Facial gymnastics is a natural method whose effectiveness in reducing nasolabial folds has not been proven.
By strengthening the muscles of the face and improving blood circulation to the skin, these exercises, when practised regularly, promise to firm the skin.
One of the simplest exercises is to smile exaggeratedly for a few seconds, then let go. This movement should be repeated about ten times.
Another exercise is the "imaginary balloon", which consists of 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 that involves placing the two fingers of each hand at the corners of the lips, then gently pulling outwards as you try 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 site are applicable to Switzerland; there are differences between countries.
Contact details
Dr Valeria Romano
Pl. du Molard 5, 1204 Genève, Suisse
Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 6pm
Dr Valeria Romano - All rights reserved.
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