Treating nasolabial folds with dermal fillers: a holistic approach

Abstract

There are multiple surgical and non-surgical ways to treat the nasolabial fold. Traditionally, the non-surgical way of treating nasolabial folds was through careful placement of hyaluronic acid fillers directly to the fold. Our understanding of the facial ageing process and facial anatomy has enabled us to evolve our technique so that nasolabial fold treatments are safer for patients and deliver better clinical outcomes. By treating nasolabial folds indirectly, by addressing the changes that occur through aging, the aesthetic practitioner can achieve more natural and effective reduction in the fold. Indirect treatment of the nasolabial fold requires addressing the bony resorption, deep fat and superficial fat volume loss. Through better understanding of the facial aging process, we are entering an era where more practitioners are treating the cause of a particular line than treating it directly. This has the benefit of creating a more balanced and natural result with longer lasting rejuvenation.