For many people, nasolabial folds are a familiar concern—a line or crease running from the wings of the nose to the corners of the mouth that becomes increasingly pronounced with age. Many individuals express frustration regarding their formation and how to effectively eliminate them. In this article, we will explore the causes of nasolabial folds and potential treatment options.
The formation of nasolabial folds is primarily influenced by two major factors: muscle movement and skin aging. As we communicate and express ourselves daily, the muscles on either side of the face pull on the skin, and these repetitive actions can create creases. Additionally, with aging, the fat tissue in the skin gradually diminishes, reducing support and causing the skin to sag, with nasolabial folds becoming more prominent. Simultaneously, fat in certain areas may thicken while other areas lose volume, which further aggravates the folding of the skin and intensifies the nasolabial fold issue.
The treatment methods for nasolabial folds vary across different age groups and conditions. Take, for instance, a 30-year-old woman whose nasolabial folds are shallow because of slightly thinning skin. In this case, injecting a small amount of filler can effectively improve the appearance. In contrast, a 50-year-old woman might have very prominent nasolabial folds due to significant changes in her skin’s supporting structure. Simply injecting hyaluronic acid at the nasolabial fold site may not yield the desired results; a more comprehensive approach that involves lifting the mid-face is likely more effective.
For men over 60, the nasolabial folds are often even more pronounced, along with other signs of aging. For such patients, treatment focused solely on nasolabial folds may be inadequate; doctors typically recommend a comprehensive facial contouring strategy and, when necessary, even surgical lifting to restore a youthful appearance.
Addressing nasolabial folds is quite common in aesthetic medicine, but for women of various ages, merely treating the folds themselves is seldom sufficient. Issues such as tear troughs and loss of volume in the cheeks, which often accompany aging, also require attention. Focusing solely on nasolabial folds may lead to an unbalanced appearance of other facial features, ultimately detracting from overall beauty.
Currently, available treatment options for nasolabial folds primarily include hyaluronic acid injections, Ellanse, and poly-L-lactic acid fillers. Each material is suited to different candidates, so it’s advisable to seek professional evaluation to ensure natural treatment results. Additionally, the injection technique for nasolabial folds demands a high level of skill, requiring precise handling while avoiding damage to facial blood vessels.
In summary, the treatment of nasolabial folds should be part of a comprehensive strategy rather than a sole focus on the folds themselves. In the pursuit of beauty, maintaining facial balance and harmony becomes even more important.