Nasolabial folds: causes and modern treatment methods

The nasolabial fold, sometimes referred to as the „nasolabial groove“, is the natural line that runs from the sides of the nose to the corners of the mouth. Whilst it is usually only visible when smiling in younger years, it can deepen over time and remain visible even when the face is relaxed. A very pronounced nasolabial fold can give the face a tired, haggard and older appearance.

This article explains in detail what the real causes of deep nasolabial folds are and what modern, minimally invasive methods are available to treat them effectively.

What is the nasolabial fold?

The nasolabial fold is a soft-tissue fold that runs from the sides of the nostrils to the corners of the mouth. It marks the natural boundary between the mouth and the cheeks.

The deepening of these lines is a classic sign of facial ageing and is caused less by the formation of wrinkles in the skin than by structural changes beneath the skin.

Understanding the true causes and effects of nasolabial folds

A common misconception is that the nasolabial fold develops in the same way as an expression line (e.g. the glabellar line). However, its deepening is primarily the result of a complex ageing process affecting the midface:

1. Loss of volume: Over time, the deep fat deposits in the cheeks and cheekbones diminish. The bony structure of the face also changes slightly.
2. Tissue slackening: The connective tissue loses its elasticity.
3. The consequence (gravity): As a result of the loss of supportive structures, all the tissue in the midface sags downwards and forwards under the influence of gravity. This sagging tissue „piles up“, as it were, over the firmer area around the mouth, thereby accentuating the nasolabial fold.

A deep nasolabial fold is often merely a symptom. The actual cause is sagging of the midface. A modern, effective treatment therefore aims not only to fill the fold itself, but also to rebuild the supporting structures above it.

The primary treatment: hyaluronic acid injections

By far the most common, safest and most effective method of treating nasolabial folds is injection with hyaluronic acid fillers.

How it works: Hyaluronic acid is a filler that restores lost volume. An experienced practitioner will often adopt a two-stage approach:

1. Lifting effect: Hyaluronic acid is often injected into the zygomatic arch first. This restores the lost volume in the cheeks and creates a gentle lifting effect, which lifts the sagging tissue and naturally reduces the nasolabial fold.
2. Fine-tuning: If necessary, a small amount of softer filler is then injected directly into the remaining depth of the wrinkle to perfect the result.

This technique produces a particularly natural result, as it treats the cause rather than simply masking the symptom.

Potential risks and the importance of insurance cover

Although hyaluronic acid injections are considered very safe, they are a medical procedure that should only be carried out by an experienced specialist. Possible risks include:

• Swelling, redness and bruising (common and temporary)
• Asymmetries or unnatural bulges caused by incorrect injection technique
• In extremely rare cases, a blockage in a blood vessel, which requires immediate treatment

As this is a cosmetic procedure, the costs of treating any complications are not always covered by health insurance. A Consequential Costs Insurance provides financial security in the event that a medically necessary correction is required following your treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about nasolabial folds