Nasolabial folds run from the bottom of the nose to the corners of the mouth and are sometimes referred to as “smile lines.” These structures in the face support the buccal fat pad and separate the cheeks from the upper lip. Everybody has nasolabial folds, but some people would like to reduce their prominence. To address deep nasolabial folds that will not respond to dermal fillers, NYC Plastic Surgeon Dr. Thomas W. Loeb recommends nasolabial fold surgery to provide the great, long-lasting results you’re looking for.
Age, sun damage, and smoking contribute to the break-down of collagen and elastin fibers that keep the skin smooth and supported. As the face ages, the cheekbones flatten, causing the skin to sag. Significant weight loss can lead to looser skin in the face and neck, while significant weight gain can plump up the face and accentuate the creases. Side sleeping can cause one or both of the nasolabial folds to deepen as well. Genetic factors can cause deepened nasolabial folds in people as young as 25.
Everyone has nasolabial folds to some degree, but as with most skin conditions, abstaining from smoking and using sunscreen are the best steps you can take toward a youthful countenance. Moisturizing skincare products with vitamin C and retinol can also help keep the skin supple and smooth.
Deepening nasolabial folds are a natural part of aging, but there are procedures available to at least minimize their impact on the face. Some people wondering how to soften nasolabial folds begin with dermal fillers, laser skin resurfacing, and microdermabrasion to achieve a more youthful countenance. Typically, these options will help reduce the prominence of the folds for up to 18 months.
However, when the folds are deep and longer-lasting results are desired, only a qualified New York plastic surgeon can reverse the signs of aging with a reshaping and restructuring procedure. Nasolabial folds surgical treatment is recommended for people who have severe/heavy creases that would not respond well to fillers.
While facelifts are often viewed as “the ultimate” technique for youth enhancement, there is a limit to what can be achieved. A mid-facelift or full facelift cannot solve the problem of severe nasolabial folds. Direct incision is necessary. It can be done as a standalone procedure or along with another. For instance, sometimes a mid-facelift will be recommended as well to correct drooping cheeks, or a small cheek implant will be necessary to provide definition to the upper part of the face.
Nasolabial fold excision is the best way to remove deep nasolabial folds. Under local anesthesia, the procedure takes about an hour, and the stitches are removed within five to seven days.
It may take several weeks for the full recovery to occur. Non-surgical options include dermal fillers such as Restylane and Juvederm. In just a few minutes, you can see and feel dramatic results on your upper cheeks, and you can start your daily routine as soon as the treatment is complete.
Realistic expectations are a big part of patient satisfaction with this procedure, as with any other type of plastic surgery. At your initial consultation, Dr. Thomas Loeb will ask you a few questions about your medical history, examine your facial folds, and show you some of his nasolabial fold before and after photos so you can see what is possible. Should you decide to have a nasolabial fold excision done, you can expect long-lasting results.
The cost of nasolabial fold surgery varies, depending on the facility, geographic location, type of anesthesia, and expertise of the surgeon. Generally speaking, it’s 50-75% cheaper than a facelift and less invasive as well. This cosmetic procedure is not covered by health insurance providers, but let Dr. Loeb know if cost is a concern. Our friendly office staff is happy to discuss payment plans and financing options with you.
In the world of plastic surgery in NYC, few professionals command as much respect as Dr. Thomas W. Loeb. His expertise has been instrumental in enhancing and perfecting techniques, ensuring that patients experience the best and most refined outcomes in their cosmetic procedures. Many patients travel in from out of state for Dr. Loeb’s expertise in facial surgery procedures. His innovative work has been featured in mainstream media, in college textbooks, and in medical journals. The nasolabial fold incisions heal fantastically well because of Dr. Loeb’s skillful technique and careful incision placement within the natural crease line.
Please call us at 212-327-3700 to arrange a FaceTime/Skype or office consult in the Upper East Side of Manhattan.
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