Injectables

Nasolabial Folds

Hyaluronic acid dermal filler may be used to soften nose-to-mouth folds while maintaining natural facial expression.

Clinical Introduction

Nasolabial folds are the lines that extend from the sides of the nose towards the corners of the mouth. Their appearance can be influenced by facial anatomy, skin quality, movement and changes in mid-face support. At EQUA Clinic, treatment begins with an assessment of the face as a whole. In some patients, carefully placed hyaluronic acid dermal filler may be used directly within the fold. In others, restoring selected mid-face support may provide a more balanced result. The aim is to soften the appearance of the fold while preserving normal movement and natural facial proportions, rather than attempting to remove the line completely. Suitability, expected results and risks are discussed during consultation.

Suitability Indicators

Adults concerned about increasingly visible nose-to-mouth folds
Patients seeking subtle softening rather than complete removal of the fold
Those who may benefit from direct fold treatment or selected mid-face support
Patients suitable for hyaluronic acid dermal filler following clinical assessment

Target Concerns

Visible nose-to-mouth folds
Shadowing beside the mouth
Changes associated with reduced mid-face support
Facial balance between the mid and lower face

Consultation Process

Your consultation includes a medical history and an assessment of the nasolabial folds, mid-face support, skin quality and facial movement. We discuss whether direct treatment, treatment elsewhere in the face, or no treatment is the most appropriate option.

The Treatment Journey Steps

Clinical assessment and treatment planning
Cleansing and antiseptic preparation of the treatment area
Careful placement of hyaluronic acid dermal filler where clinically appropriate
Assessment of facial movement, balance and tissue response
Clear aftercare advice and access to clinical support

Safety & Downtime

Safety Note: The nasolabial region contains important blood vessels. Treatment is planned around your individual anatomy using an appropriate needle or cannula technique. Potential complications, including the rare risk of vascular occlusion, are discussed before treatment.

Expected Downtime: Mild swelling, tenderness or bruising may occur. This commonly begins to settle over several days, although individual recovery times vary.

Clinical Benefits & Limitations

Primary Benefits

May soften the appearance of selected nose-to-mouth folds
Can reduce shadowing while preserving natural facial movement
Allows treatment to be planned in relation to mid-face support
Uses temporary hyaluronic acid dermal filler where clinically appropriate

Anatomical Limitations

Treatment is intended to soften rather than completely remove the fold
Direct treatment is not always the most appropriate approach
Significant skin laxity or deeply established surface lines may limit the result
Results vary and cannot be guaranteed

Precautions & Contraindications

Active infection, inflammation or open skin in the treatment area
Pregnancy or breastfeeding
Known hypersensitivity to the proposed product or its components
Any medical factor identified during consultation that makes treatment unsuitable

Home Aftercare Instructions

Keep the treated area clean and avoid applying make-up or skincare for 24 hours
Do not massage or apply firm pressure unless specifically advised
Avoid alcohol, strenuous exercise and excessive heat for 24 to 48 hours
Contact the clinic promptly if you experience unusual pain, colour change or any other concern

When will I see the results?

Some softening may be visible immediately, although swelling can affect the early appearance. Allow approximately two weeks for the area to settle before assessing the result. Outcomes vary between individuals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will treatment remove my nasolabial folds completely?

No treatment can guarantee complete removal, and eliminating the fold may create an unnatural result. The aim is careful softening where treatment is clinically appropriate.

Will the filler be placed directly into the fold?

Not always. The fold and surrounding facial support are assessed together. Depending on your anatomy, direct treatment, selected mid-face support or no filler may be recommended.

Clinical Alternatives

Cheek Filler (where selected mid-face support may provide a more balanced result)

Explore clinical alternatives under professional direction.

Learn More →

Skin Quality Treatments (where surface texture rather than structural support is the main concern)