Nasolabial folds

Dermatologists typically recommend fillers for nasolabial folds over more invasive procedures, such as surgery. While individual results may vary, dermal fillers generally provide the following benefits:

• increased collagen in the skin, which helps to plump up the targeted area
• increased volume around the mouth area
• an overall “lift” of the skin
• the appearance of smoother and softer skin
• minimal side effects
• immediate results
• the option to wear makeup after your treatment, if desired

Dermatologists tend to recommend fillers for nasolabial folds instead of major surgery because this treatment option rarely poses the risk of infections, bleeding, and other side effects that surgeries can.

However, it’s still important to know that dermal fillers can cause minor side effects. These tend to go away within a couple of days. Talk to a dermatologist about the following risks:

• bruising at the injection site
• swelling
• redness
• skin rash
• itchiness

Dermal fillers are noninvasive options for the treatment of deep wrinkles. If fillers don’t help you achieve the results you’re looking for, there are other more invasive ways you can help soften nasolabial folds.

Talk to a dermatologist about the following treatments:

• Skin resurfacing. This procedure uses targeted laser treatments to remove skin cells.
• Dermabrasion. Dermabrasion involves removing the top layer of skin to create a smoother appearance.
• Skin tightening treatments. Treatments such as radiofrequency and ultrasound therapies may help stimulate collagen production.

Everyone has nasolabial folds, but they can become more noticeable as you age because of natural collagen losses. When you lose collagen, your skin can become less firm and supple, thereby deepening these types of wrinkles.

Another reason nasolabial folds become more prominent with age is because of the tendency of cheeks to flatten out. As this occurs, your skin droops downward, deepening the folds around your cheeks.

There are other factors that you may be able to control. Chronic sun exposure has been found Trusted Source to contribute to skin aging (photoaging) by destroying elastin and collagen in the skin.

In turn, this can also make skin wrinkles like nasolabial folds more noticeable. Wearing sunscreen every day is a must to prevent cancers and photoaging.

Other risk factors for nasolabial folds include:

• weight fluctuations
• sleeping on your side
• smoking

Quitting smoking can be difficult, but a doctor can help create a cessation plan that works for you.

Takeaway

Dermal fillers are often the first treatment option dermatologists recommend for nasolabial folds.

It’s generally safe and effective, without being as invasive and costly as surgery. Be sure to discuss all side effects and costs upfront before undergoing treatment.

Also, while fillers for nasolabial folds are long-lasting, they won’t provide any permanent results. Overall, these injectables last between 6 and 18 months, or when your skin fully dissolves the material.