Read Between the Lines: Treating Nasolabial Folds

Here at Tarrant Plastic Surgery, we always make sure that patients undergo the proper treatment to address their needs. This focus on precision wrinkle reduction and skin care is what has made us one of the leading facial plastic surgery and cosmetic rejuvenation practices in Fort Worth.

One of the most common problematic lines that our team treats are nasolabial folds. Let's take a moment to consider what these are and how they can be addressed.

What Are Nasolabial Folds?

Nasolabial folds refer to the lines that extend from the corners of the nose down to the corners of the mouth. These are naturally occurring lines that everyone has, and they are often most pronounced while making certain kinds of facial expressions (e.g., laughing, yawning). There are instances, however, in which these facial lines become extremely pronounced and lead to aesthetic problems. Major nasolabial folds can leave you feeling very self-conscious about your appearance.

What Causes Nasolabial Folds?

Nasolabial folds tend to become more pronounced as a result of the natural process of getting older. With age, the collagen beneath the skin breaks down, resulting in less supple and looser skin. This, in turn, leads to certain facial lines and wrinkles becoming more prominent and problematic.

The prominence and development of pronounced nasolabial folds is part genetics. If you have a sibling or parents with pronounced facial lines, you will likely experience them as well.

Thankfully there are a few different treatments available to help those who want to eliminate these problems.

Dermal Filler Injections

Dermal fillers are cosmetic injections that add volume to the injection site. The dermal fillers are ideal for deep lines and hollows of the face, which are filled in and made more supple thanks to the dermal filler solution.

There are different kinds of dermal fillers, which means that dermal filler treatments can be tailored to the needs of the patient. Filler injections can also be performed and repeated every few months to prolong the cosmetic results.

Fat Transfer Therapy (Microlipoinjection)

Fat transfer injections work on a similar principle as dermal fillers, but instead of using synthetic solutions and special substances, the procedure involves the use of a patient's own body fat. Liposuction is performed to harvest just a bit of fat, which is then injected into the problems hollows and lines of the face.

Since a patient's own body fat is used, there is little chance of allergic reactions or adverse side effects. Some of the body fat will simply be harmlessly absorbed into the body, though the fat remaining will help reduce the prominence of unwanted lines and wrinkles.

Is Facial Plastic Surgery a Viable Option?

No.

Given the placement of the nasolabial folds and the nature of facial lift procedures, surgery is generally not a good option for treating nasolabial folds. Issues with the jowls and neckline can be addressed with lower face lift and neck lift surgeries, though fillers tend to be best for treating nasolabial folds per se.

Schedule a Consultation at Tarrant Plastic Surgery

If you would like more information about treating facial lines and wrinkles, be sure to contact our cosmetic skin care and plastic surgery center today. The team at Tarrant Plastic Surgery is here to help you look your absolute best.