Considered a rhinoplasty and/or a lip lift, but is there a procedure for the nasolabial area specifically? (photos)

Question

I am really unhappy with my nasolabial area. It is quite pronounced on both sides of my face and makes me look older. I don't want to go the facelift or filler route. I've considered rhinoplasty and or a lip lift, but would it be possible to have the skin in the nasolabial area tightened/ pulled in towards the nose incorporated into one of these procedures, or is there a procedure specifically for this area? My other question is, would the skin just become lax again and I'd have the same issue?

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

In response to your inquiry, there are certainly procedures that can target the nasolabial area specifically, and these can sometimes be incorporated into a rhinoplasty or lip lift. One common procedure is a mid-face lift, which can be performed to lift and tighten the skin around the cheeks and nasolabial folds. This procedure can help to reduce the appearance of nasolabial folds and give the face a more youthful appearance.

Alternatively, a less invasive option could be a thread lift. This procedure uses dissolvable threads to lift and tighten the skin, and can be focused on the nasolabial area. However, the results are not permanent and typically last 1 to 3 years.

Regarding your second question, it is true that the skin may become lax again over time. This is a natural part of the aging process, and while cosmetic procedures can help to reduce the signs of aging, they cannot stop it entirely. The longevity of the results will depend on a number of factors, including your age, skin quality, lifestyle, and the specific procedure performed.

As with any cosmetic procedure, it's important to have a thorough consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your options and expectations. They can provide more detailed advice based on your individual circumstances.

Donald B. Yoo, MD, FACS · Answer

Adding volume to the contours of the nasolabial folds can improve their appearance. Safe and effective options include hyaluronic acid fillers, poly-l-lactic acid (Sculptra) and fat grafting. The shape change you are creating with your fingers is also reducing the width of your ala, which would be possible with alarplasty which may be in the context of rhinoplasty, or in isolation.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Morpheus 8 is a non-invasive skin and soft tissue tightening treatment that is consistently amazing in our patients. We use the Morpheus to exact fractional induced RF into the skin or tissue in order to tighten collagen and stimulate contraction of the tissue. For acne scars, it is quite useful to build collagen in patients who have atrophic scars but is not very productive for ice-pick scars which require TCA Cross. For tissue tightening, Morpheus is ideal for the face and neck and we often combine it with CO2 laser or Ultherapy to further enhance results. Chemical peels and skin resurfacing should be done at least 5 to 7 days after, but can be performed earlier, depending on treatment severity. Avoid exfoliating skin treatments before Morpheus and expect a period of 2-4 weeks for skin contraction to set in.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Kenneth R. Francis, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear Spo0kcat,
You look like you are about 20 years old and your NLFs have the appropriate appearance of a 20 year old.  No surgeon in their right mind would espouse the nose pinch procedure that you are suggesting in your third photo for improvement of nasolabial grooves.  If it is really a huge issue for you, fillers are the best option.  Otherwise, own your youthful appearance as it is.

Considered a rhinoplasty and/or a lip lift, but is there a procedure for the nasolabial area specifically? (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Nasolabial fold prominence

Answer: Nasolabial fold prominence

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Everything you need to know about Skin Tightening

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Considered a rhinoplasty and/or a lip lift, but is there a procedure for the nasolabial area specifically? (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Nasolabial fold prominence

Answer: Nasolabial fold prominence

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Skin Tightening

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.