Nasiolabial Folds

Filler in the nasolabial folds can help smooth out the lines between the nose and the mouth. As we age, we lose the fat pads in our cheeks. These fat pads are crucial to hold the cheeks up and give them volume. As the cheek drops down, it can in turn cause nasolabial folds. In this situation, a combination of cheek and nasiolabial filler will be the best option. If you already have good cheek volume, then a direct approach is possible. Supporting it from underneath with filler gives it structural support and helps prevent the line getting worse with age. It is not advisable to completely eradicate this line as it may look unnatural.

The procedure is relatively pain-free, with potential mild discomfort from the needle/cannula. Numbing cream is used. Most of the appointment time is spent assessing your face and treatment planning, with the actual treatment taking no more than 15mins. If you are having multiple areas treated, then the appointment will be longer. No appointment will be rushed, to ensure the treatment is caried out safely and aftercare advice is thoroughly explained.

As with all treatments there are always risks. As with any injectable treatments, there is a risk of bruising and swelling, which subsides within a few days-weeks. It can take sometimes 4-6 weeks for filler to fully integrate and settle, but you can usually return to your normal daily activities within 24/48 hours. If you already had asymmetry, this may still be there following treatment. If you have some small bumps following dermal fillers this is also normal and is usually swelling and will self resolve. Lip filler in particular, can trigger cold sores if you are prone to them. There is a small risk of filler entering a blood vessel during injection – leading to a vascular occlusion. If left untreated this can lead to permanent scarring of the face and in extremely rare cases, blindness. Dr Shareka has the full kit which is required to reverse and dissolve any filler should this occur.

With dermal filler, less is more. It is always best to treat in stages rather than overfill. So multiple appointments may be required, to allow the results from the previous appointment to settle. Usually 4 weeks between appointments is advised.

You will be able to return to your normal daily activities after treatment, but you must follow the aftercare.

Generally, nasolabial fold filler lasts around 6-12 months. Everybody is different and this can be different depending on your lifestyle and metabolism. For some people it may even last longer than this.

Yes, Dr Shareka will only use fillers that are fully reversible to ensure the highest level of patient safety.

You are unsuitable for treatment if:

• You have any infection present at or near the injection sites
• You are allergic to any of the ingredients
• You are pregnant or breastfeeding
• You have a neuromuscular disease

Please do not drink alcohol for 24 hours before your appointment. Avoid any laser treatments, chemical peels or microneedling for 2 weeks before and after your treatment. Please try to eat and drink something before your appointment to avoid feeling light headed during the procedure. Please come to your appointment make up free or with minimal make up.

Yes! Please avoid alcohol and exercise for at least 24 hours as it can lead to flushing of the skin, which can, in turn, reduce the effectiveness of the treatment. Avoid rubbing the areas of the face that have been injected for 24 hours - this includes having facials or facial massage. Avoid applying makeup directly to the injection sites for 24 hours. You may apply makeup to the other areas of your face.