AESTHETIC NEWS
There are many strategies and treatments you can use to reduce the appearance of nasolabial folds without the use of dermal fillers. Dermal fillers are a popular method of treating these smile lines because they are very effective, but you might be looking for an alternative. Keep in mind that no matter the treatment you choose, long-term maintenance will be required for optimal results.
Is It Possible to Get Rid of Nasolabial Folds?
The nasolabial folds, also known as smile lines, are the deep folds that extend from the corners of the mouth upward to the side of the nose. The appearance of nasolabial folds is an inevitable part of the aging process. In some people, the folds are more noticeable than in others.
It’s indeed possible to reduce the appearance of these smile lines. However, because the lines occur as part of the aging process, every available treatment will bring only temporary results—including dermal fillers and alternatives to dermal fillers. That means you’ll need to plan on repeating the treatments on a regular basis to maintain your results.
There are noninvasive, minimally invasive, and invasive treatment options available to reduce the appearance of nasolabial folds.
FaceTite Facial Contouring
FaceTite is a skin tightening procedure that is typically performed to reduce the look of sagging skin, lines, and wrinkles on the lower half of the face. It is an invasive technique that requires a few incisions, but the results can last as long as three to five years.
FaceTite works by using radiofrequency energy and liposuction technology to contour the face, tighten the skin, and stimulate the production of collagen.
Morpheus8
Another option for reducing the appearance of nasolabial folds is Morpheus8, which also uses radiofrequency energy but does not include liposuction. Instead, Morpheus8 combines RF energy with microneedling—a technique that effectively stimulates the production of collagen for better skin tightening benefits.
This minimally invasive skin tightening technique is safe for all skin tones. There is very little downtime. The results may last between one and three years.
Dermabrasion
You may already be familiar with microdermabrasion, which involves the physical resurfacing of the top layers of skin to reduce the look of cosmetic imperfections and allow rejuvenated, new skin underneath to be visible. Dermabrasion is a more intensive version of this, and it requires a longer recovery time than microdermabrasion.
Dermabrasion can be an effective method of minimizing the look of smile lines. If you choose to have the treatment on your entire face, you’ll also enjoy other anti-aging benefits, such as the reduction or elimination of age spots, sunspots, and other lines and wrinkles.
Because you’ll grow new skin following a dermabrasion treatment, the lifespan of the results is highly variable. Your results will last for as long as it takes new smile lines to gradually develop because of the natural aging process, which varies from person to person.
Botox
Even if you’d rather avoid dermal fillers for nasolabial fold reduction, you might consider Botox injections. Botox injections can weaken the muscles responsible for forming the smile lines, resulting in a reduction of their appearance for up to several months.
However, Botox isn’t the most effective option for nasolabial fold reduction, as it doesn’t rejuvenate the underlying tissues.
Plastic Surgery
If you have severe nasolabial folds or you’re interested in a very effective option that will last for a long time, you might consider plastic surgery. A cheek lift or a facelift involves the repositioning of the facial tissues and tightening of the skin. It’s an effective way to achieve a more youthful look.
Similar to dermabrasion, you can expect your results to last for as long as it takes the natural aging process to reintroduce smile lines to your face.
Consult an Experienced Plastic Surgeon in NYC
All of these treatment options for nasolabial folds are available at the office of Dr. Thomas Loeb, a board-certified plastic surgeon serving clients in Great Neck and Manhattan. Dr. Loeb brings years of clinical experience and aesthetic expertise to each appointment and takes the time to develop an in-depth understanding of each client’s cosmetic concerns and goals.
Contact our Great Neck plastic surgeon today to schedule an appointment.
