What are nasolabial fold fillers?
Nasolabial folds are the fine lines and wrinkles that form alongside your inner cheeks, stretching from the lower outer nose area to the corner of the mouth. As we age, our body struggles to produce enough collagen, hyaluronic acid, and elastin to provide structural support to the issue, causing the skin to sag and droop. This creates a tired, aged appearance, and the inner cheeks drooping downwards can contribute to a puffy look. Nasolabial folds can form when dynamic wrinkles from smiling and frowning become static. When the dermal filler is injected into these areas, collagen production is stimulated, and hyaluronic acid filler plumps the area to smooth the skin and provide a lifted appearance.
Benefits of nasolabial fold fillers
The advantages of receiving cosmetic injectables in the nasolabial folds include:
- Increases collagen production in the skin to plump up and rejuvenate the treatment area.
- Increases volume around the mouth area.
- Lifts and tightens the skin for a youthful, fresh appearance.
- Smoothes and softens the skin.
- Minimal risks and immediate results gradually improve over time.
- No downtime as patients can continue their daily activities.
Nasolabial fold fillers consultation at Shellharbour Skin
During your initial consultation with one of our clinicians at our Shellharbour cosmetic clinic, you will discuss your reasons for wanting nasolabial fold dermal fillers and your desired outcomes. Your consultation is the time to discuss any concerns or questions about nasolabial fold fillers. Your clinician will then assess the inner cheek areas to examine the extent of skin sagging and drooping and determine the best injection method for your fillers. You will need to disclose your medical history, allergies, and any medications or supplements you might be taking.
It is important to mention any allergic reactions you may have had previously to medicine or skincare and any cosmetic treatments you may have recently undergone. All information you provide is essential as certain factors can influence your body’s natural healing, and we aim to provide patients with the best possible results. Your clinician will use this information and work with you to create a treatment plan tailored to your concerns and anticipated outcomes.
What to expect
Nasolabial fold filler treatments can take less than an hour to perform. The treatment begins with a topical numbing cream applied to minimise any discomfort. A precise amount of dermal filler is injected via a cannula or a thin needle around the lower inner cheek areas. After the treatment, patients can continue their day, as usual, meaning dermal fillers are the perfect ‘lunchtime’ treatments.
Immediately following the treatment, you may notice some redness, swelling, and small red dots at the injection sites. Bruising may also occur, but using a cannula can reduce this occurrence. Most swelling should subside roughly two to three days after your procedure, but there may still be some residual swelling for several weeks. The bruising should disappear within a week. We advise patients to contact our clinic immediately if any symptoms persist.
Cost of nasolabial fold fillers in Illawarra
The cost for nasolabial fold fillers will differ for every patient depending on the amount of filler needed to achieve your desired results and aesthetic goals. We always recommend that you book an initial consultation at our clinic first to determine your suitability for the treatment and to receive an estimate of the costs. This is because we create a tailor-made treatment plan that targets your concerns and anticipated outcomes.
Results & aftercare for nasolabial fold fillers
You will notice immediate results following your treatment. Still, you will need to wait until the swelling and bruising subside before you see the final results, which can take several weeks. You will also gradually notice your complexion improving over time, becoming more rejuvenated and youthful.
To ensure the best possible results and facilitate optimal healing, general aftercare instructions include:
- Avoid vigorous exercise for at least 24 hours.
- Do not wear makeup for the first 4 hours post-treatment.
- Apply a cold compress on and off for the first couple days after treatment.
- Avoid using active skincare products for a couple of days.
- Do not touch, rub, or scratch your face for several days after treatment.
- Avoid saunas, steam baths, hot yoga, and extreme temperatures for the first-week post-treatment.
Risks & complications
No matter what cosmetic or medical treatment patients choose to undergo, there are always associated risks and complications that patients must be aware of. It is essential to understand that not every patient experiences some or any side effects. We strongly advise patients to follow their aftercare plan, which is designed to minimise risks where possible. Associated risks and complications with nasolabial fold fillers can include:
- Bruising
- Swelling
- Redness
- Skin rash
- Itchiness
- Bleeding
- Damaged blood vessels
- Scarring
- Necrosis (tissue death)
- Lumps and bumps
- Infection
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will the results last?
The results for nasolabial fold fillers can last different lengths of time for every patient, depending on how quickly your body metabolises the filler. Generally, results can last between 6 to 12 months, but you may need another treatment at the six-month interval if you wish to maintain your enhanced appearance.
What causes nasolabial folds?
The most common belief is that nasolabial folds are caused by smiling and other repetitive facial muscle movements, but this is a secondary cause of nasolabial folds. As part of our natural ageing, we lose bone mass and volume in the face from a lack of collagen and elastin production, causing facial folds to form. Many factors can make you more vulnerable to developing nasolabial folds, including genetics, sun exposure damage, and lifestyle choices such as smoking.
If you have a question, get in touch and one of our staff will be in touch shortly.
