Nasolabial Augmentation

What is Nasolabial Filler?

Nasolabial filling is an aesthetic treatment used to fill nasolabial folds, which are folds or lines on the face that extend from the edges of the nose to the corners of the lips and become more noticeable when smiling. These lines can deepen as a natural part of the aging process, causing an older expression on the face. Nasolabial filling is usually performed using temporary fillers such as hyaluronic acid and aims to give the face a younger and more rested appearance by reducing the lines in this area.

Why Do Nasolabial Lines Occur?

The formation of nasolabial lines depends on several factors, and this process usually occurs naturally with age. The main reasons are:

Loss of Collagen and Elastin in the Skin: With aging, there is a decrease in collagen and elastin fibers that provide skin elasticity and firmness.

Decrease in Facial Volume: With age, the volume of fat tissue in the face decreases, leading to a decrease in skin support and deepening of lines.

Facial Expressions: Repetitive facial expressions such as smiling and talking cause these lines to deepen over time.

Sun Exposure: Long-term sun exposure can accelerate skin aging and contribute to the formation of lines.

Lifestyle Factors: Lifestyle factors such as smoking and inadequate hydration can also affect the skin aging process.

How is Nasolabial Filler Applied?

Nasolabial filler application usually includes the following steps:

Consultation and Evaluation: Before starting the treatment, the patient’s aesthetic goals and skin condition are evaluated. The appropriate filler type and amount is determined.

Preparation: The treatment area is cleaned and disinfected with an antiseptic solution. A cream containing local anesthetic can be applied to minimize pain.

Injection of the Filler: The selected filler is carefully injected into the nasolabial lines through a thin needle or microcannula. By distributing the filler evenly, the specialist reduces the appearance of lines and provides a smoother contour to the face.

Final Checks and Post-Treatment Instructions: After the filler is applied, the treated area is gently massaged and the patient is given post-treatment care instructions.

Who Can Get Nasolabial Filling?

Nasolabial filling is generally performed on individuals with the following conditions or needs:

Those with Nasolabial Lines that become more prominent: People with lines that become more prominent in the nasolabial area due to aging or facial expression use.

Those looking for a rejuvenation effect on their face: Individuals who want to achieve a younger and more rested appearance on their face.

Those Who Want to Increase Skin Volume: People who want to eliminate facial volume loss due to aging or other factors.

Those who want to clarify facial contours: Individuals who want to make their facial contours clearer and more defined.

When is Nasolabial Filling Done?

Nasolabial filling can be performed when the appearance of nasolabial lines begins to cause discomfort and the person seeks a rejuvenation or renewal effect on the face. Although this is usually seen in middle-aged individuals, it can also occur in younger or older individuals, depending on age and individual skin characteristics. It can also be preferred before special events or important social events to make the face look younger and more vibrant.

What Ingredients Are Contained in Nasolabial Filler?

The main ingredients used in nasolabial filling are:

Hyaluronic Acid: Hyaluronic acid, the most commonly used filler, increases the skin’s moisture retention capacity and provides a plump appearance.

Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA): Provides long-term volume and support by encouraging natural collagen production under the skin.

Polylactic Acid: It is another filler that gradually stimulates collagen production under the skin and therefore helps tighten the skin and increase its volume.

Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA): One of the more permanent filler options, it comes in microscopic beads and provides volume by creating a support matrix under the skin.

What are the issues to be considered in Nasolabial Filling Applications?

Nasolabial filling has an important place in facial aesthetics and is especially used to alleviate the appearance of nasolabial lines (lines between the nose and mouth). Some important issues to consider before this process are:

Expert Selection: The experience and knowledge of the expert who will perform the procedure is critical for the success of the application. It is important to choose a certified aesthetic doctor or dermatologist who is an expert in the field.

Product Quality: Care should be taken to use FDA-approved and high-quality filling materials. Learn about the content and brand of the applied filler.

Setting Expectations: It is important to clarify your expectations and set realistic goals by having a detailed conversation with your doctor before the procedure.

Allergy Test: Although rare, allergic reactions may develop to fillers. It is recommended to perform an allergy test before filling application.

Before and After Photos: In order to evaluate the effect of the procedure, it may be useful to take before and after photos.

Health Status and Medication Use: Inform your doctor about your current health condition and the medications you use regularly. Some health problems or medications can make filler application risky.

What Should Be Considered After Nasolabial Filling?

Things to consider after nasolabial filling can speed up the healing process and reduce the risk of unwanted complications:

Cold Application: During the first 24 hours, apply cold compresses intermittently to the treated area to reduce swelling and bruising.

Avoid Touching Your Face: To reduce the risk of infection and not disrupt the placement of the filler, avoid touching your face for a few days after the procedure.

Avoid Strenuous Exercise: Avoid strenuous physical activity in the first 24-48 hours as this may increase swelling in the facial area.

Use of Alcohol and Blood Thinning Medication: Avoiding alcohol consumption and medications that can thin the blood (e.g. aspirin) in the first days after the procedure can reduce the risk of bruising.

Sun Protection: Avoiding sun exposure or using high factor sunscreen after application helps prevent skin color changes.

Compliance with Doctor’s Recommendations: Compliance with the specific instructions and recommendations given by your doctor helps you achieve the best results.

What are the Benefits of Nasolabial Filler?

Nasolabial filling applications have many benefits:

Facial Rejuvenation: Filling of nasolabial lines helps the face look younger and more rested.

Natural Appearance: Modern filling techniques and materials provide a natural appearance and do not distort facial expression.

Fast Results: The filler process is usually fast and provides immediate results. Recovery time after the procedure is usually short.

Low Risk: When performed correctly, nasolabial filling procedures carry low risk and side effects are generally mild and temporary.

Increased Self-Confidence: Reducing wrinkles and lines on the face can provide a significant increase in a person’s self-confidence.

Long-Term Effects: Most filling materials, although not permanent, have long-term effects and can be sustained by repeating the process.

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How Long Does the Nasolabial Filler Effect Last?

The effect of nasolabial filling applications varies depending on the type of filling used, the skin structure of the individual, lifestyle and metabolic rate. Generally, the nasolabial filler effect can vary between:

Hyaluronic Acid Fillers: Hyaluronic acid-based fillers, one of the most popular types of fillers, can generally last from 6 months to 12 months. In some cases, this period may extend up to 18 months.

Calcium Hydroxylapatite Fillers: These types of fillers can typically be effective for a period of 12 months to 18 months.

Polylactic Acid Fillings: Polylactic acid fillings, which are one of the long-term filling options, can be effective for up to 2 years. These fillers work by stimulating collagen production under the skin.

Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) Fillings: PMMA, one of the permanent filling options, can offer permanent results but is not among the most used methods.

Is Nasolabial Filler Permanent?

Nasolabial fillings usually provide temporary solutions. The most commonly used fillers, such as hyaluronic acid, calcium hydroxylapatite, and polylactic acid, are biodegradable and absorbed by the body over time. Therefore, regular reapplications may be necessary to achieve permanent results. However, there are also permanent filler options, but the use of such fillers is less common and may carry some risks. Permanent fillers generally require more careful evaluation and should be performed by a qualified healthcare professional to avoid potential side effects.

When Do the Effects of Nasolabial Filler Application Begin?

The effects of nasolabial filling applications usually begin to be seen immediately after the procedure. However, it may be necessary to wait a few days or weeks to see final results. Once the slight swelling and bruising that may occur after the procedure heals, the full effect of the filler becomes clearer.

Hyaluronic Acid Fillers: These fillers offer results immediately after application, but it is ideal to wait 1-2 weeks for the final effect.

Other Types of Fillers: Other types of fillers, such as calcium hydroxylapatite and polylactic acid, offer similarly rapid results, but may require a little more time to see final results.

When is Nasolabial Filler Required?

Nasolabial filling may be necessary if the nasolabial lines on the face deepen or the loss of volume in the face becomes evident. These lines extend from the edges of the nose to the corners of the lips and can become evident for various reasons such as aging, sun exposure, genetic factors and lifestyle choices. Nasolabial filler may be particularly useful in the following situations:

Emphasis on Facial Lines: When facial expression lines become more prominent over time, fillers can soften these lines and provide a more youthful appearance.

Volume Loss: To compensate for the volume loss that occurs as a result of the decrease in fat tissue in the face with aging.

Asymmetry Correction: Correcting the asymmetry that is naturally present on the face or has developed over time.

Rejuvenation Effect: In general, to make the face look fuller and younger.

Is Nasolabial Filling Harmful?

Nasolabial fillers are generally considered safe when applied and used correctly. When FDA-approved fillers are applied under appropriate medical conditions and by an experienced healthcare professional, the risk of serious side effects is low. However, as with any medical procedure, nasolabial fillers have potential risks and side effects:

Allergic Reactions: In rare cases, allergic reactions to fillers may occur.

Infection Risk: There is a risk of infection in the application area.

Asymmetry and Dissatisfaction: Asymmetry or failure to achieve the expected result after application.

Bruising and Swelling: One of the most common side effects after the application is bruising and swelling in the treated area.

When is the effect of Nasolabial Filler seen?

The effect of nasolabial filling usually begins to be seen immediately after application. However, in order to achieve the full effect of the filler and the final appearance, any slight swelling and bruising that may occur after the application should be waited to resolve. This process usually takes a few days to a week. Depending on the type of filler and the amount applied, results can last from several months to several years. Some fillers, such as hyaluronic acid fillers, show immediate effect, while fillers that stimulate collagen production (for example, polylactic acid) become visible over time. To achieve the best results after filler application and to prolong the duration of the effect, it is important to follow your doctor’s maintenance and reapplication recommendations.

Can Nasolabial Filling Be Reconstructed?

Nasolabial fillings usually provide a temporary aesthetic solution and the effect of the fillings decreases over time. Therefore, for people who want to maintain the achieved appearance, refilling is not only possible but also recommended. Re-application time varies depending on the type of filler used, the individual’s skin structure, lifestyle and metabolic rate. Here are some important points:

Hyaluronic Acid Fillers: These types of fillers are generally effective for 6 months to 12 months. Once the effect begins to diminish, it is recommended to reapply the filler.

Other Types of Fillers: Other types of fillers, such as calcium hydroxylapatite or polylactic acid, may have longer-lasting effects. The need for reapplication usually occurs after 1 to 2 years.

Personal Preferences: Some individuals may prefer to reapply more frequently in order to maintain or enhance a particular look.

Before reapplication, it is important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional to evaluate the results of the previous filler application and clarify your expectations.

What are the Side Effects of Nasolabial Filler?

Although nasolabial filling procedures are generally safe and effective aesthetic procedures, as with any medical procedure, some side effects may be encountered. Most of these side effects are temporary and mild rather than serious. Here are the most common side effects:

Bruises: Applications made with needles may cause temporary bruises in the treated area.

Swelling: After the application, slight swelling may occur in the filled area. This swelling usually subsides within a few days.

Pain or Tenderness: Mild pain or tenderness in the treated area is common after application and usually resolves quickly.

Redness: Temporary redness may occur in the application area.

Itching or Rash: Rarely, itching or rash may develop as a mild allergic reaction to fillers.

Risk of Infection: Although rare, infection may develop in the application area.

Asymmetry: Errors regarding the amount or distribution of the filler to be applied can lead to asymmetry.

How Often Is Nasolabial Filler Applied?

The frequency of nasolabial filling application varies depending on the type of filling material used, the individual’s skin structure, lifestyle and personal preferences. In general, since the effect of nasolabial fillers is temporary, reapplication is required at regular intervals. Here are some general guides:

Hyaluronic Acid Fillers: The effect of these types of fillers usually lasts 6 to 12 months. Therefore, most people prefer to reapply once a year.

Calcium Hydroxylapatite Fillers: The effect of these fillers can last approximately 12 to 18 months, so reapplication is usually done every 1 to 1.5 years.

Polylactic Acid Fillers: Its effect may last up to 2 years and reapplication may be required after this period.

Personal Situation: Personal factors such as metabolic rate may also affect how long the filler will be effective. Fillers may be absorbed more quickly in some people.

Will I Return to My Old Appearance After the Nasolabial Filling Procedure Ends?

Yes, the effect of nasolabial filling procedure decreases over time and the fillings are absorbed by the body. As the effect of the fillers diminishes, the treated area will gradually return to its pre-filling state. Fillers do not make a permanent change; Instead, they provide a temporary volume increase in the applied area. When the fillers are completely absorbed, the person returns to the appearance before the fillers, considering the natural elasticity and structural properties of the skin. However, some long-term benefits that fillers stimulate, such as collagen production, may last even after the filler is absorbed.

Is There a Change in Smiling When We Have Nasolabial Filling?

When applied in the correct amount and with the correct technique, nasolabial filler application should not have a negative effect on smiling or other facial expressions. A professional practitioner carefully places the filler so as not to disrupt the natural movements of the face. The goal is to improve the appearance of nasolabial lines while preserving facial expressions. When the filler is placed correctly, no stiffness or restriction should be felt when laughing or making facial expressions. However, excessive or improperly placed filler can cause a slight change in facial expressions. Such situations are rare when performed by an experienced healthcare professional. If you have any concerns after a filler, it is important to consult your practitioner.