Nasolabial Filling
Nasolabial folds are superficial contours on our faces that become more pronounced with age. The skin in this area is very thin, and since it is a region where facial muscles are actively used, it is prone to wrinkle formation.
The area that extends from the sides of the nostrils to the corners of the mouth is called the nasolabial area. As age progresses, the sagging of the upper face downwards, decreased connective tissue in this area, thinning of the skin, and dropping of fat pads naturally deepen these folds.
As nasolabial folds become more pronounced, a person begins to appear older, unhappy, and tired than they actually are. After filler application to this area, the person's facial expression becomes softer and gains a younger appearance.
Assessment of the Patient before Nasolabial Filling
Before the filler application, the entire face of the patient should be evaluated. If there is sagging in the face due to age-related tissue losses, nasolabial folds deepen even more. If such a condition is detected in the patient, it would be more appropriate to lift the face upwards with fillers or thread lifting treatment in the upper face area first, and then apply fillers to the nasolabial areas.
How is Nasolabial Filling Procedure Performed?
The aim of nasolabial filler application is to fill the hollows and wrinkles in the nasolabial area using hyaluronic acid or mineral fillers.
Since the application area is anesthetized with local anesthetic creams, no pain or discomfort is expected. Needles or cannulas are used in the application.
Soft hyaluronic acid fillers or mineral fillers that will harmonize with that area are preferred in filler selection.
The amount of filler to be used varies according to the patient's needs.
The approximate application time is between 10-15 minutes, and the patient can easily continue their daily life after the procedure.
What are the possible side effects after Nasolabial Filling Procedure?
As with other injection procedures, redness, swelling, and bruising may occur during nasolabial filler application. These side effects are expected and usually regress spontaneously within a short period.
When is the effect of Nasolabial Filling noticed, and how long does it last?
The effect of nasolabial filler is noticed immediately after the procedure, but it may take about 2 weeks for the filler to fully integrate with the tissue and settle, opening up the wrinkle. The durability of nasolabial filler varies depending on the type and amount of filler used and the structural characteristics of the individual, but it is generally between 9 months to 1 year. As the effect of the filler diminishes, new filler additions can be made.
Precautions before the Filling Procedure?
Approximately 1 week before the procedure, aspirin-like blood thinners should be discontinued, and supplements such as vitamin E and green tea that increase the risk of bleeding should be avoided.
All painkillers and alcohol consumption should be stopped 2 days before.
If there is a herpes or similar skin infection in the application area or its surroundings, it must be treated and the treatment should be completed before the procedure.
If possible, no makeup should be applied when coming to the appointment, and the face should be clean.
Precautions after the Filling Procedure?
Massaging and rubbing the treated area are not recommended.
For the first three days after the procedure, especially if there is swelling and bruising, exposure to heat such as hot baths, hammam, sauna, solarium, or sunbathing should be avoided.
Avoid blood-thinning medications and foods with blood-thinning effects for about a day after the procedure.
Alcohol should not be consumed on the same day.
Heavy sports should not be done for the first few days after the procedure.
The treated area should not be exposed to water on the same day due to the risk of infection, no product should be applied, and no makeup should be done.
Avoid swimming pools for 2 days due to the risk of infection.
Do not lie face down for 4 hours.
No skincare should be done on the same day. If skincare is to be done, skincare should be done first, and then the filling procedure should be performed. If it hasn't been done, skincare can be done at least 1 week after the filling procedure.
Each skin is unique to the individual. Therefore, it is very important to provide the healthcare solutions and medical support that the person needs with a treatment approach tailored to them. Dr. Pınar Koç specializes in dermatological disorders as well as aesthetic and cosmetic dermatology, laser applications in dermatology, and hair diseases. You can contact us for detailed information and consultancy.
