Which long lasting procedure would minimize the appearance of my nasolabial folds? 31 y/o (photos)

Question

I am 31 year old female and have nasolabial lines. Are these normal for my age? Can these be treated long term

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

At age 31, nasolabial folds (the lines running from the nose to the corners of the mouth) are completely normal, especially with expressive facial movements. However, if their appearance at rest is bothersome, several long-lasting treatment options can help soften them.

1. Dermal Fillers (Hyaluronic Acid or Biostimulatory Fillers)
Effect: Immediate improvement by adding volume beneath the folds.

Longevity:

Hyaluronic acid fillers (like Juvederm or Restylane) typically last 9–18 months.

Biostimulatory fillers like Sculptra or Radiesse stimulate collagen and can last up to 2 years.

Best For: Moderate volume loss and patients seeking non-surgical correction.

2. Fat Transfer (Autologous Fat Grafting)
Effect: Uses your own fat to fill in volume loss around the folds.

Longevity: Considered semi-permanent; results may last years, though fat survival can vary.

Best For: Those seeking a more natural, long-term option and willing to undergo a minor surgical procedure.

3. Thread Lifts
Effect: Minimally invasive threads are inserted to lift and reposition sagging skin, improving the fold depth.

Longevity: Results last 12–18 months.

Best For: Early skin laxity and mild to moderate folds.

4. Energy-Based Skin Tightening (RF or Ultrasound)
Effect: Stimulates collagen to tighten the skin around the mid-face and folds.

Longevity: Results develop gradually and can last 1–2 years with maintenance.

Best For: Mild laxity or as an adjunct to volume-based treatments.

Conclusion:
Yes, nasolabial folds are normal at 31, especially if you're expressive or starting to lose some mid-face volume. For long-term softening, dermal fillers, fat grafting, and collagen-stimulating treatments are effective and commonly used. Combination approaches often yield the best results over time.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

HA fillers are a great tool to minimize the appearance of nasolabial folds.  You'll be able to see some improvement right away and final results after two weeks.  We also recommend using medical grade skin care products like Transform MD and wearing sunscreen every day to keep skin healthy.

Tulsi Kotecha, MD · Answer

Nasolabial lines can be treated long-term with a combination of maintenance treatments and good skincare habits. Options like dermal fillers, microneedling with PRP, and laser treatments provide both short-term and long-lasting results, but it’s important to remember that maintenance treatments are often needed to sustain the effects. Combining treatments that stimulate collagen, such as microneedling or Sculptra, with injectables like fillers can give you the best long-term results.
Given your age and the fact that nasolabial lines are still relatively new, it’s worth discussing preventative measures with your specialist as well.

Leonard Grossman, MD · Answer

Even children as young as five or six years old can have nasolabial lines. So it is absolutely normal for you to have them at your age as these lines are pretty determined by the hereditary and genetic factors. However, if you don’t like your appearance, you can definitely have these improved with the use of hyaluronic acid fillers. I hope this helps and good luck from Leonard Grossman, M.D. organic Plastic Surgery in New York.

Which long lasting procedure would minimize the appearance of my nasolabial folds? 31 y/o (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Nasolabial lines.

Answer: Nasolabial lines.

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Dermal Fillers

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

Which long lasting procedure would minimize the appearance of my nasolabial folds? 31 y/o (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Nasolabial lines.

Answer: Nasolabial lines.

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Dermal Fillers

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