Can my nasolabial folds and the bags under my eyes be gone forever? (photos)

Question

These two pairs of "lines" on my face have always bothered me. They are a part of my facial structure which is the same as my dad's, but I want them gone. They make me look tired and older than my age. I'm 23. My job requires a lot of photos of my face being taken and I feel really uncomfortable, so I always end up entirely removing both pairs of lines with photoshop. Is there any procedure that would restructure my face in a way that they won't appear anymore? I'm open to any suggestions!

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

If someone tells you they have a surgery that will get rid of something in your face forever, you should run.  It is essential to understand that many services that will be offered to you will not be right for you.  For example, a surgeon here is recommending lower eyelid transconjunctival blepharoplasty for "eye bags."  In fact, your photos do not demonstrate herniated lower eyelid fat bags.  The fullness visible in your lower eyelid is not from fat.  Put your finger on top of the "bag."  What you are feeling is the contour of your orbital rim not a bag of fat.  Lower eyelid surgery would be profoundly disappointing for you.  Don't have something that is not going to work for you because it might be "permanent."  On the other hand, you would do well will hyaluronic acid fillers.  This can be used to revolumize the top of the cheek, add a bit of volume to the nasolabial fold and even help the chin.  The best of these products persist for years.  However, their effects are best for the first year.  At that point, depending on what you need, you add or subtract volume based on how the service has aged.  I see two to three new patients a week who need grafted fat removed from the face or have problems with permanent fillers.  Do not go this way.  While the promise of a "permanent" solution is alluring, these services cause more harm than good.  Find a highly experienced injector with aesthetic judgement.  You will pay more for the right service but a bad result is a terrible thing and not worth the money saved.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Fillers are needed for decreased volume or fat and sculptra; skin tightening treatments like thermage and ultherapy, profound and exilis ultra can be used to lift.  nothing permanent can reverse the signs of aging even implants or surgical skin removal.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Mehryar (Ray) Taban, MD, FACS · Answer

Your nasolabial folds are not bad and probably best left alone.  You do have under eye bags (fat prolapse) with underlying hollowness. The best long-term procedure with natural results is transconjunctival lower blepharoplasty with fat repositioning. See following link and video. See an oculoplastic surgeon.

Paul Nazemi, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and for posting your photos.  There are various treatment options available to you.  Conservative application of dermal fillers to the tear trough can camouflage the bags and create a natural and smoother contour.  Definitive treatment includes blepharoplasty surgery.  Dermal fillers to the cheeks can effectively raise them and minimize the appearance of naso-labial folds.  Direct injection of fillers to the nasolabial folds can also be performed.  Every doctor has his or her own treatment strategy and technique.  Find a specialist with whom you are comfortable and best wishes.

Christopher I. Zoumalan, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello, you may be a great candidate for injectable fillers for facial and eyelid rejuvenation.  Injectable fillers to the lower eyelids and nasolabial folds may help refresh your appearance. It would be worthwhile to make a consultation with a plastic surgeon or an injector that has extensive experience with eyelid and facial fillers.  Best of luck!

Can my nasolabial folds and the bags under my eyes be gone forever? (photos)

Answers (8)

Answer: Treatment for naso-labial folds and under eye bags

Answer: Treatment for naso-labial folds and under eye bags

Answer: Nasolabial Folds and Eye Lid Bags

Answer: Nasolabial Folds and Eye Lid Bags

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Can my nasolabial folds and the bags under my eyes be gone forever? (photos)

Answers (8)

Answer: Treatment for naso-labial folds and under eye bags

Answer: Treatment for naso-labial folds and under eye bags

Answer: Nasolabial Folds and Eye Lid Bags

Answer: Nasolabial Folds and Eye Lid Bags

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Eyelid Surgery

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