Dermal fillers are one of the most effective treatments for nasolabial folds, the lines that run from the sides of your nose to the corners of your mouth. Hyaluronic acid fillers can soften these smile lines immediately, with results lasting 9 to 12 months. The treatment takes about 15 to 30 minutes, requires no downtime, and provides natural looking improvement that still lets you express yourself freely.
What Are Nasolabial Folds?
Nasolabial folds are the lines that extend from each side of your nose down to the corners of your mouth. You may know them as smile lines, laugh lines, or parentheses lines. Everyone has nasolabial folds to some degree, but they become more noticeable with age as we lose facial volume and skin elasticity.
When you are younger, these lines appear only when you smile and then disappear when your face relaxes. Over time, they can become permanent creases that are visible even at rest. This happens because of natural collagen loss, decreased facial fat, and the effects of gravity on the skin.
How Do Fillers Treat Smile Lines?
Dermal fillers work by adding volume beneath the skin to lift and smooth the nasolabial fold. The filler physically fills in the crease, reducing its depth and making the line less visible. This approach addresses the root cause of deeper smile lines, which is volume loss in the mid face area.
“Fillers on the face, the most common ones are done in the nasolabial folds, the cheeks, and under the eyes,” explains the kalon Dermatology team. Nasolabial folds are among the most frequently treated areas because fillers provide such effective and natural looking results.
Your provider may also recommend treating the cheeks along with the nasolabial folds. Restoring volume to the cheeks can lift the mid face and reduce the downward pull that deepens smile lines. This comprehensive approach often produces better results than treating the folds alone.
What Results Can You Expect?
Results from nasolabial fold filler are visible immediately after treatment. You will notice softer, less prominent smile lines right away. There may be some initial swelling that subsides over the first few days, and final results typically settle within one to two weeks.
“The usual approach is to make it as natural and appealing as possible,” says the kalon Dermatology team. The goal is not to eliminate all facial lines, which would look unnatural, but to soften them so you look refreshed and rested.
Most patients achieve significant improvement with one to two syringes of filler. Deeper folds may require more product. Your provider will assess your facial anatomy during your consultation and recommend the right amount for your goals.
How Long Does Nasolabial Fold Filler Last?
Nasolabial fold filler typically lasts 9 to 12 months. The exact duration depends on the type of filler used, how much product was injected, and your individual metabolism.
“Fillers on the face and other areas may last eight months up to a year,” notes the kalon Dermatology team. Some patients find their results last even longer, especially with regular maintenance treatments.
The nasolabial fold area experiences moderate facial movement from smiling and talking, which gradually breaks down the filler over time. Most patients return for touch up treatments once or twice a year to maintain their results.
What Happens During the Procedure?
Nasolabial fold filler is a quick, in office treatment that typically takes 15 to 30 minutes. Here is what to expect:
Consultation: Your provider will examine your facial anatomy, discuss your goals, and recommend a treatment plan. This includes determining how many syringes you may need.
Preparation: The treatment area is cleaned and a topical numbing cream is applied for your comfort. Most fillers also contain lidocaine to minimize discomfort during injection.
Injection: Your provider carefully injects the filler into the nasolabial folds using a fine needle or cannula. They may massage the area to ensure smooth, even distribution.
Review: You can see your results immediately. Your provider will review aftercare instructions and answer any questions.
Is Nasolabial Fold Filler Painful?
Most patients describe the sensation as mild discomfort rather than pain. The numbing cream applied before treatment significantly reduces sensation in the area. Additionally, most dermal fillers contain lidocaine, a local anesthetic that provides comfort during and after injection.
You may feel some pressure as the filler is injected, but the procedure is well tolerated by most patients. If you are concerned about discomfort, let your provider know. They can take additional steps to ensure your comfort.
What Is Recovery Like?
There is minimal downtime after nasolabial fold filler. Most patients return to their normal activities immediately after treatment. However, you may experience some temporary side effects:
Swelling: Mild swelling around the injection sites is common and typically resolves within a few days.
Bruising: Some patients experience minor bruising that can last up to a week. This can be covered with makeup after 24 hours.
Tenderness: The treated area may feel tender to the touch for a day or two.
Your provider will give you specific aftercare instructions. Generally, you should avoid strenuous exercise for 24 to 48 hours, stay out of extreme heat, and avoid touching or massaging the treated area unless directed.
Which Fillers Are Best for Nasolabial Folds?
Several types of dermal fillers can effectively treat nasolabial folds. Your provider will recommend the best option based on the depth of your lines and your desired results.
“We use both. We have the hyaluronic base, which is RHA, and the non hyaluronic base, which is Radiesse. We also stock Versa,” says the kalon Dermatology team.
Hyaluronic Acid Fillers (Juvederm, Restylane, RHA, Versa): These are the most popular choice for nasolabial folds. They provide natural looking results and can be dissolved if needed. Different formulations offer varying levels of thickness for mild to deep folds.
Radiesse: This calcium hydroxylapatite filler provides immediate volume and stimulates collagen production over time. It is a good option for deeper nasolabial folds and can last 12 months or longer.
Nasolabial Fold Filler vs. Other Treatments
Dermal fillers are not the only option for treating smile lines, but they are often the most effective non surgical choice. Here is how they compare:
Botox: Botox relaxes muscles that cause dynamic wrinkles, but nasolabial folds are primarily caused by volume loss, not muscle movement. Botox alone is not effective for treating smile lines.
Retinoids and Skincare: Topical treatments can improve skin texture and stimulate collagen, but they cannot replace lost volume. Skincare helps maintain results but cannot achieve the same improvement as fillers.
Laser Treatments: Lasers can tighten skin and improve texture, but they do not add volume. They work well in combination with fillers but are not a replacement.
Facelift Surgery: A surgical facelift provides the most dramatic and long lasting results, but it requires significant downtime and recovery. Fillers offer a non surgical alternative with no downtime.
Smile Line Treatment at kalon Dermatology
At kalon Dermatology, our experienced team provides personalized dermal filler treatments for nasolabial folds and other facial concerns. With over 60 years of combined experience, our board certified dermatologists and skilled providers deliver natural looking results that help you look refreshed, not overdone.
Our team includes Dr. David Biro, a board certified dermatologist named one of New York’s Top Doctors, and Dr. Michael Gladstein, a Castle Connolly Top Doctor with nearly three decades of experience. Every treatment begins with a thorough consultation to understand your goals and create a customized plan.
We offer a range of dermal fillers including RHA, Versa, and Radiesse to address nasolabial folds of all depths. Our Brooklyn (Sheepshead Bay) and Staten Island locations serve patients throughout the New York City area.
Contact kalon Dermatology today to schedule your consultation and learn how nasolabial fold filler can help you achieve a more youthful, refreshed appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does nasolabial fold filler cost?
The cost depends on how many syringes you need, which varies based on the depth of your folds and your desired results. Most patients need one to two syringes. During your consultation, your provider will give you a personalized quote based on your treatment plan.
Can filler completely remove nasolabial folds?
Filler can significantly soften nasolabial folds, but the goal is usually improvement rather than complete elimination. Removing all traces of smile lines can look unnatural. Most patients prefer a refreshed, natural appearance that still allows for normal facial expression.
What is the best age to get nasolabial fold filler?
There is no specific best age. Some patients in their 30s seek treatment for early smile lines, while others wait until their 50s or 60s when folds are deeper. The right time is when your smile lines bother you enough that you want to address them.
Will my smile look different after filler?
No. When performed correctly, nasolabial fold filler should not change your smile or restrict facial movement. You will still look like yourself, just with softer lines. The goal is enhancement, not transformation.
Can I combine nasolabial fold filler with other treatments?
Yes. Many patients combine nasolabial fold filler with cheek filler for enhanced mid face rejuvenation, or with Botox to address other areas like forehead lines or crow’s feet. Your provider can create a comprehensive treatment plan to address all your concerns.
Disclaimer
Medically reviewed by Danny Bronshtein, NP.
This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.