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The nasolabial fold is the crease from the nose’s base to the mouth’s sides. It is created by loss of bone in the upper jaw bone (maxilla) and by sagging of the soft tissues in the mid-face and cheek. This area is rarely treated in isolation but as part of holistically treating the middle third of the face.
What we can Address
Reduce the depth of the Nasolabial fold
This gives a smoother transition from the cheek to the area around the mouth which is more aesthetically pleasing.
Treatment of the Piriform Fossa
As part of this procedure, the area at the base of the nose (known as the piriform fossa) is often treated.
How are dermal fillers used to soften a nasolabial fold?
The nasolabial fold is often softened by correcting volume loss and sagging in the mid-face and jawline. This can be further improved by strategically placing filler in a way that still allows for natural facial expression.
Benefits of dermal filler for a nasolabial fold
Dermal fillers provide a non-surgical and minimally invasive solution for reducing the appearance of nasolabial folds. Individuals can avoid the risks and downtime associated with more invasive procedures, such as facelifts or surgical interventions. The treatment can often be performed quickly in a clinical setting, allowing patients to resume their daily activities without lengthy recovery periods.
Fillers can smoothen the nasolabial folds, softening the deep creases and lines. The fillers contain substances like hyaluronic acid, which naturally occurs in the skin and helps retain moisture, restoring volume and hydration to the treated area. This diminishes the appearance of the folds and improves overall skin texture and radiance. They also offer customisable results tailored to each individual’s unique facial features.
Dermal fillers’ effects on nasolabial folds are generally long-lasting but temporary. This means that patients can adjust their treatment over time based on how their face ages or their preferences change. The non-permanence of the procedure provides peace of mind for those who might be hesitant about undergoing irreversible alterations to their appearance. The treatment may also be suitable for individuals who may not be eligible candidates for more invasive surgical options.
Patients typically experience minimal discomfort during the injection process. Topical numbing agents can be applied to assist comfort further.
Candidates for nasolabial fold filler
Ideal candidates should have good overall health and realistic expectations about the procedure results. They understand that dermal fillers can soften the appearance of nasolabial folds and improve facial contours but may not eliminate all wrinkles.
Good candidates for nasolabial fold filler treatment have sufficient skin elasticity. The filler substances, commonly containing hyaluronic acid, add volume to the treated area.
Patients seeking a non-surgical and minimally invasive approach to address their nasolabial folds can be well-suited for dermal filler treatment. Unlike surgical procedures, fillers require little to no downtime, allowing individuals to resume their daily activities soon after the treatment.
Candidates for nasolabial fold filler treatment mustn’t have any allergies or sensitivities to the filler substances used. Patients should disclose any known allergies or medical conditions during the consultation to ensure the treatment’s effectiveness.
A suitable candidate should have a positive overall health history and be willing to follow the post-treatment instructions provided. Adherence to these instructions will contribute to reducing the risk of complications.
Your Brisbane consultation with Dr Scott Allison
You will discuss your aesthetic concerns and cosmetic goals during your consultation with Dr Allison. He will discuss your medical history comprehensively, including any allergies, previous cosmetic procedures, and medications you are taking. This information will help Dr Allison assess your candidacy for the treatment.
Dr Allison will carefully examine your facial anatomy, paying specific attention to the nasolabial folds and the surrounding areas. The consultation will involve a detailed explanation of the dermal filler procedure itself. He will describe the type of filler he recommends, typically hyaluronic acid-based, due to its effectiveness in treating nasolabial folds. He will discuss the benefits of the chosen filler, its expected duration, and any potential side effects or risks associated with the treatment.
He will also address any questions or concerns regarding the procedure, ensuring you are well-informed and comfortable with the decision to undergo dermal filler treatment. He will discuss the expected outcomes, the required sessions, and the approximate procedure cost.
The cost of dermal filler treatment can vary based on several factors, including the type of filler used, the amount of filler required, and other personalised factors which will be outlined in your treatment plan.
Dr Allison will explain the preparation needed before the treatment and any post-procedure care instructions to minimise potential side effects. He will emphasise the importance of following these guidelines to ensure a smooth recovery.
What to expect during the procedure
The treatment will begin with Dr Allison cleansing the area to ensure it is free from makeup, dirt, or oils. Sterile techniques will be followed to maintain a hygienic environment.
Depending on the patient’s comfort level and the specific filler, a topical numbing cream or local anaesthetic may be applied to the nasolabial fold area. This helps minimise any discomfort during the injection process.
Once the numbing has taken effect, Dr Allison will begin the injection process. Using a fine needle, he will carefully and precisely inject the dermal filler into the targeted areas along the nasolabial folds.
Multiple techniques can be used to improve this area. Generally, this area would be addressed after the cheeks and mid-face had been treated. This allows for less filler to be used.
You may feel slight pressure or mild discomfort throughout the procedure, but most patients tolerate it. The process usually takes around 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the extent of the treatment and the patient’s needs.
After completing the injections, Dr Allison may gently massage the treated area to ensure the filler is evenly distributed and to shape the folds further.
Once the treatment is complete, you can expect to see an immediate improvement in the appearance of your nasolabial folds. There may be some initial swelling or redness in the treated area, which is a normal and temporary side effect of the procedure.
Aftercare for dermal fillers
After your treatment, you can expect minimal recovery time. Since the filler is placed deep in the bone, it is rare to experience significant bruising or swelling associated with the procedure. However, some patients may still notice slight redness or mild swelling, which usually subsides within a few days.
Some essential aftercare instructions are needed to ensure a smooth recovery. Firstly, you will be instructed to avoid wearing makeup or lipstick for at least four hours after the treatment. This allows the injected area to settle and reduces the risk of any potential infections.
Avoiding vigorous exercise is recommended for the first 24 hours following the procedure. Strenuous activities can increase blood flow to the treated area and potentially exacerbate swelling or bruising.
To minimise the risk of bruising, you should avoid alcohol consumption in the evening after the treatment. Alcohol can thin the blood, making it more likely to cause bruising.
Applying ice to the treated area can help reduce swelling and bruising. It’s essential to use a clean cloth or ice pack and gently apply it to the skin in short intervals, typically 10 to 15 minutes at a time, with breaks in between.
Swimming should be avoided for at least one week after the dermal filler treatment. Chlorinated water and other potential contaminants in swimming pools may increase the risk of infection or irritation in the treated area.
Dr Allison will provide personalised aftercare instructions tailored to your specific needs and the type of filler used. Following these instructions diligently helps to minimise potential side effects.
While the recovery period is generally minimal, individual experiences may vary. Some patients may notice immediate improvement, while others may require a few days for the filler to settle and any swelling to subside entirely. Please get in touch with our team for guidance if you have any concerns or questions during the recovery process.
Risks and side effects
As with any medical procedure, there are some risks to consider. Most patients will have some swelling associated with this treatment, settling over the following few days. There may be some discomfort, bleeding or bruising.
Other possible side effects of dermal fillers include redness, tenderness, or itching at the injection sites. In rare cases, patients may experience lumps or nodules under the skin, allergic reactions, or infections. It is essential to discuss any concerns or medical conditions with Dr Allison before the procedure to minimise the likelihood of adverse effects. Dr Allison will provide detailed information about possible side effects and what to do if you experience unusual reactions following the treatment.
There have been cases in Australia of vascular injury whereby filler is inadvertently injected into a blood vessel. It is rare, but if it occurs, it could lead to skin necrosis or visual loss. If any signs appear, the filler must be dissolved immediately.
Costs of nasolabial fold dermal filler in Brisbane
Dermal filler costs are typically measured by the millilitre (ml) because this unit of measurement allows for precise and standardised dosing during the procedure.
The volume of filler required for a nasolabial fold treatment can vary significantly depending on the individual’s facial anatomy, the severity of their nasolabial folds, and personal goals.
Each patient’s facial structure is unique. Some individuals may require only a tiny amount of filler to address minor nasolabial folds, while others with deeper creases may need larger volumes. Dr Allison can carefully assess each patient’s needs during the consultation to determine the amount of filler required.
Factors influencing the amount of filler needed include age, skin type, and the skin’s overall condition. Younger patients may require less filler due to better skin elasticity, while other patients with more significant volume loss may need additional filler.
Patients may have different preferences regarding their results. Some individuals may opt for subtle changes, while others seek more noticeable results. These preferences will be considered when determining the appropriate filler amount.
During your consultation, Dr Scott Allison will guide you on how many ml of filler you need. Please see our prices for more information.
Nasolabial Fold Filler Before and After
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