What are these lines called? How to fix? (Photo)

Question

I have very full cheeks. These lines on my face really bothe me. What are they called? How can I address them to not me so prominent? I’m only 27 and I feel it ages me. r

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

From your description, these sound most likely like nasolabial folds (also called smile lines)—the natural creases that run from the sides of the nose down toward the corners of the mouth. They are extremely common and are not necessarily a sign of aging. Some people have noticeable folds even in their 20s because of their facial anatomy, cheek volume, and how the tissues are attached and move when they smile.

Since you mention having very full cheeks, that is particularly relevant. A prominent nasolabial fold isn't always caused by a lack of volume. Sometimes the contrast between fuller cheek tissue and the area immediately beside the nose makes the fold look deeper. Muscle movement and the natural attachment of the facial tissues can also accentuate the crease, even in a young person.

I would therefore not automatically recommend filling the line itself. Adding filler directly into a prominent fold can sometimes make the area look heavy or puffy, particularly when the cheeks are already full. In selected patients, a very conservative approach to the surrounding midface can soften the transition rather than simply filling the deepest part of the crease.

Other options depend on what is actually creating the line:

If it is primarily a structural fold: conservative filler or strategic midface treatment may soften it.
If it is mostly visible with facial movement: treating the contributing muscle activity may sometimes help, although Botox isn't routinely the first choice for a young person with naturally prominent folds.
If skin texture is contributing: retinoids, consistent sunscreen, and collagen-stimulating treatments can improve the overall quality of the skin, although they won't completely erase an anatomical fold.
If the cheeks are naturally very full: reducing cheek volume is sometimes discussed, but I would be very cautious about removing facial fat at 27 because unnecessary volume reduction can create a less youthful appearance later.

Most importantly, having these lines at 27 doesn't mean your face is prematurely aging. If they've been present for a long time, they're likely part of your natural facial architecture rather than simply an age-related wrinkle. My preference would be to make them less noticeable while preserving the fullness and youthful character of your cheeks, rather than trying to completely erase a normal facial feature.

Janet Woodyard, MD · Answer

The lines extending from the nose are the nasolabial folds and the lines extending from the corners of the mouth onto the chin are termed marionette lines. Both these areas can be effectively treated with fillers.

What are these lines called? How to fix? (Photo)

Answers (2)

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