Answer by Dr. Anita Mandal: The nasolabial area is the region between the corner of the mouth and the outer edge of the nostril. Some patients are born with lines or grooves in this area due to genetic predisposition. Many, however, acquire these lines and/or depressions as a result of the aging process.
A distinct difference exists between nasolabial depressions or grooves and nasolabial lines. The former is the result of volume loss in the deeper skin layers or bone layer but can also be due to fat loss in the nasolabial zone. However, the nasolabial lines develop in a more superficial plane of the skin.
Understanding the anatomy of the nasolabial area is key to identifying the correct approach to treatment. Volume loss in this region presents as a groove or depression. Treatment consists of injectable fillers such as Bellafill - the 5-year filler, Restylane Refyne, Juvederm Ultra Plus, Radiesse or RHA 3 which are all designed to be placed in the deeper tissues to restore volume.
When it comes to superficial lines in the nasolabial zone, injectable fillers - designed to be placed in the superficial skin - such as Restylane, Restylane Silk, RHA 2 or Juvederm Ultra XC - can give effective softening. It is important not to place deep-layer fillers into superficial nasolabial lines to avoid an unnatural, bumpy appearance in this area.
Some patients have both depressions and superficial lines in the nasolabial zone. Filling the depressions alone can leave one with residual nasolabial lines. A 2-layer injection approach can adequately correct aging in the nasolabial area with stacking of filler in both the deep and superficial planes. This dual-layer technique with pairing of 2 different injectable fillers can be performed within the same session.
Other patients have concerns of deep nasolabial grooves but, in fact, have volume loss of the cheek area above the nasolabial zone. The cheek volume loss results in loss of support of overlying skin and muscle causing the cheek tissues to descend towards gravity. This cheek sagging can give the appearance of a deepening nasolabial zone but, in actuality, is the result of cheek aging superior to the nasolabial area. It is important to seek a skilled injector who understands the intricate anatomy of facial aging since correction of this concern is volume restoration of the cheeks instead of injection of the nasolabial area.
A detailed consultation with a Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon who is also a Master Injector is the first step in determining your facial rejuvenation needs.
Dr. Anita Mandal is a double Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon who specializes in facial rejuvenation, cosmetic surgery and non-invasive body contouring. On the medical staff at Jupiter Medical Center, her on-site offices' house surgical and laser suites. Dr. Mandal’s expertise lies in giving natural results and defined contours using the latest, most advanced techniques.
