Nasolabial Fold Anatomy
In dermatology, the nasolabial folds are the lines that extend from the sides of the nose to the corners of the mouth. With age, volume loss and collagen changes deepen these lines, altering facial balance. Understanding their anatomy helps clinicians choose personalized strategies rather than one-size-fits-all solutions.
Korean clinics routinely use grading scales to assess fold depth and skin quality. High-resolution photography and measurements guide treatment planning. This precise assessment supports targeted injections or devices for each patient.
Depth varies widely, from shallow creases to pronounced folds that influence expression. Skin laxity beneath the cheeks also affects how the folds appear during smiling. Patients with sun damage may notice earlier onset of depth due to collagen breakdown. A thoughtful plan addresses both the grooves and the surrounding skin for natural results.
Fillers and Botulinum Roles
Hyaluronic acid fillers quickly restore volume within the nasolabial folds. Diligent technique, for example using cannulas or layered deposits, matters for natural contours. The duration of effect depends on the product and the individual but commonly lasts several months.
Botulinum toxin is less direct for the folds themselves but can soften perioral lines by relaxing nearby muscles. Careful dosing preserves natural mouth movements while reducing tension that worsens folds. Some clinicians combine botulinum with fillers in staged sessions for balanced outcomes.
Layering approaches turn to skin boosters, mild resurfacing, or light energy to support ongoing improvement. Techniques such as small-volume filler taps and targeted tissue stimulation promote gradual collagen remodeling. Careful pacing reduces swelling and allows better assessment of results after each visit. Patients should discuss realistic timelines and maintenance plans with their dermatologist.
Noninvasive Skin Renewal
Laser resurfacing and fractional devices target surface texture to complement filler results. Non-ablative and fractional CO2 or Er:YAG lasers can improve skin quality around the mouth region. Downtime varies by device, requiring clear expectations before treatment begins.
Radiofrequency microneedling, combined with light peels, fosters collagen production and skin tightening. Newer protocols in Korea emphasize gradual improvement through staged sessions. Each session builds on the previous one, reducing the overall depth of the folds over time.
Clinicians tailor device settings to skin type and lifestyle. They emphasize sun protection and consistent home care. Multi-session plans reduce downtime while improving depth over time. Understanding realistic timelines helps patients preserve results.