Cheongdam SNU Plastic Surgery: Causes of Nasolabial Folds and Non-Surgical Solutions

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This is Cheongdam SNU Plastic Surgery Clinic.

While nasolabial folds are often considered a major sign of aging,

they are not simply wrinkles caused by folded skin.

They are a complex phenomenon that appears due to overall structural changes in the face as we age.

Today, we will explore the fundamental causes of nasolabial folds and non-surgical improvement methods.

Three Causes of Nasolabial Folds

1. Sagging of the Nasolabial Fat Pad

Fat tissue located in the central part of the face shifts downwards due to gravity and aging, accumulating along the nasolabial fold line. This is a structural change, not just simple skin folding.

2. Changes in Bone Tissue (Maxillary Bone Absorption and Depression)

As bone density in the maxillary area decreases and bone is absorbed, the central part of the face flattens. This makes the nasolabial fold area appear relatively more prominent.

3. Decreased Skin Elasticity

Reduced production of collagen and elastin causes the skin to thin and lose elasticity. The ligament structure connecting muscles and skin also weakens, leading to the fixation of wrinkles.

✔️ Why simple filler injections alone have limitations

Injecting filler only along the nasolabial fold line may temporarily improve its appearance, but the underlying cause of sagging tissue remains. This can make the cheek area look heavy or unnatural.

Effective Non-Surgical Improvement Methods

✨ Elasticity Restoration through Lifting Treatments

Lifting lasers (Ulthera, ONDA) strengthen the fascia and subcutaneous layer elasticity.

Ulthera

Uses high-intensity focused ultrasound energy to reach the fascial layer, lifting sagging tissue.

ONDA

Uses microwave energy to reduce the fat-fascial layer and promote collagen production, improving elasticity.

✨ Structural Support with Thread Lifts

Uses PDO or PLA threads to physically support sagging tissue. When performed with laser treatment, it provides more lasting effects.

✨ Volume Restoration Treatment

Uses hyaluronic acid fillers or bone-reinforcing fillers like Radiesse to compensate for maxillary bone depression.

✨ Skin Regeneration Treatment

JUVELOOK

Stimulates collagen production within the skin to strengthen the foundation of nasolabial folds.

Rejuran

Contains PN (polynucleotide) components that aid in skin regeneration, improving skin elasticity.

Importance of Personalized Treatment Plans

Since the degree and causes of nasolabial folds vary for each individual, consider an integrated approach rather than a single treatment method, such as a customized treatment that combines lifting + volume restoration + skin regeneration.

Through thorough consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon, please choose the treatment method best suited for your individual condition.

Regain a natural and youthful appearance with accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why do nasolabial folds appear?

Nasolabial folds are not simply caused by folded skin. They result from complex factors such as the sagging of the nasolabial fat pad, absorption and depression of the maxillary bone, and decreased skin elasticity.

Is injecting only filler into nasolabial folds effective?

No, simple filler injections alone have limitations for fundamental improvement. While it may temporarily look better, the sagging tissue remains, which can make the cheeks appear heavy or unnatural.

What are the non-surgical solutions for nasolabial folds?

Non-surgical solutions for nasolabial folds include lifting lasers like Ulthera and ONDA, thread lifts to support sagging tissue, volume-restoring fillers to compensate for maxillary bone depression, and skin regeneration treatments such as Juvelook and Rejuran, which help produce collagen.

What kind of treatments are Ulthera and ONDA?

Ulthera uses high-intensity focused ultrasound energy to reach the fascial layer, providing a lifting effect that pulls up sagging tissue. ONDA uses microwave energy to reduce the fat-fascial layer and promote collagen production, thereby improving elasticity.

What is the most important aspect of nasolabial fold treatment?

A personalized treatment plan is crucial. Since the causes and degree of nasolabial folds vary from person to person, an integrated approach that considers lifting, volume restoration, and skin regeneration treatments should be chosen in consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon.

How do Juvelook and Rejuran help with nasolabial folds?

Juvelook stimulates collagen production within the skin to strengthen the foundation of nasolabial folds. Rejuran contains PN components that aid in skin regeneration, helping to improve skin elasticity.