Hyaluron against nasolabial folds: Treatment, costs & results
The most important facts at a glance
The Injection of the nasolabial fold with hyaluronic acid is one of the most effective methods for smoothing the characteristic lines between the nostrils and the corners of the mouth. Precise injections into different layers of tissue create a natural lifting effect without surgery. The result is immediately visible and lasts for 12-18 months.
| Method | Volume replenishment with hyaluronic acid filler |
| Duration of treatment | 20-30 minutes, immediately socially acceptable |
| Effect | Immediately visible, final result after 7-14 days |
| Durability | 12-18 months (individually variable) |
| Quantity required | 0.5-2.5 ml depending on the shape of the wrinkle |
| Pain | 2-3/10 thanks to integrated lidocaine in the filler |
The so-called nasolabial folds - those prominent lines that stretch from the wings of the nose to the corners of the mouth - are one of the most common concerns in aesthetic medicine. As we age, the skin loses elasticity and volume, making these wrinkles deeper and more pronounced. The Injections with hyaluronic acid against nasolabial folds is considered one of the most effective and gentle methods to counteract these signs of ageing.
The philosophy of Medical NOVA in Bülach near Zurich is based on a holistic approach to aesthetic treatments. Our specialists understand that every face is unique and therefore analyse each patient's individual needs before each treatment. Hyaluronic acid-We carefully analyse your individual anatomy and facial expressions before treatment. Only through this detailed preliminary analysis by experienced specialists can we create a customised treatment plan that leads to harmonious and natural results.
Modern wrinkle treatment with hyaluronic acid has become one of the most most popular aesthetic treatments developed. People who suffer from a tired facial expression or whose facial features appear sunken due to a loss of volume in the mid-face area in particular benefit from the volume-filling effect of injections. The method offers a Scientifically sound solution for pronounced nasolabial folds without losing the natural look.
What are nasolabial folds and how do they develop?
The nasolabial fold runs diagonally downwards from the side of the nose towards the corner of the mouth and is, anatomically speaking, a natural depression in the face. It is barely visible in young people, but becomes increasingly pronounced over the years due to a number of factors. Understanding these developmental mechanisms is crucial for successful treatment by the doctor.
The anatomical causes of wrinkling
- Loss of volume in the midface area: The subcutaneous fatty tissue and the connective tissue lose substance, causing the cheeks to sag and the crease from the nostril to the corner of the mouth to deepen
- Degradation of collagen and elastin: The skin loses tone and elasticity, the connective tissue slackens, which leads to increasing sagging in the mid-face area
- Mimic stress: Repeated facial movements when talking, laughing and chewing increase the formation of wrinkles over the years
- Gravitational effect: Natural gravity pulls the tissue downwards, which is particularly visible in the cheek area and emphasises the region between the nostrils and the corner of the mouth
- Reduction in skin thickness: With increasing age, the skin becomes thinner, the connective tissue and the cheeks lose firmness and are less able to compensate for volume loss
The Hyaluronic acid offers an elegant solution here: as an endogenous active ingredient, it is biocompatible and is used to restore volume and smooth wrinkles on the face. The body recognises the substance as natural and integrates it into the tissue without any problems. Unlike Botulinum toxinwhich relaxes the muscles, hyaluronic acid replenishes lost volume during injections and supports the tissue from the inside.
When is treatment with hyaluronic acid for nasolabial folds useful?
A hyaluronic acid treatment for the nasolabial fold is suitable for a Broad patient groupThe individual analysis by the doctor during the consultation is crucial. The ideal candidates are people who suffer from visible wrinkles from the nostril to the corner of the mouth, but who do not yet have a pronounced sagging of the skin that would require surgical intervention.
Ideally, treatment of the nasolabial fold should be considered if:
- The wrinkles are clearly visible from the nostril even when the face is relaxed
- A loss of volume in the cheek area and mid-face is recognisable and the face appears sunken
- The wrinkle is perceived as disturbing and impairs the appearance
- A non-surgical alternative to injections is desired that the body tolerates well
- Wrinkles make your face look older or more tired than you feel
- asymmetries between the left and right side of the face are to be equalised
Wrinkle injections with hyaluronic acid are suitable for patients aged 30 and over, but can also be used for younger people with premature wrinkles or older people with pronounced nasolabial folds. People between the ages of 35 and 60 in particular, whose skin and connective tissue are still Sufficient elasticity achieve the best and most natural results when injecting.
Alternatively or in addition, other treatments such as Mesotherapy, RF microneedling or Thulium laser can be considered, depending on the individual starting situation and skin quality. An experienced doctor will discuss all options with you.
How does the treatment work step by step?
Injecting the nasolabial fold with hyaluronic acid is a precise medical procedure that is performed in our clinic. Beauty clinic in Bülach near Zurich under the highest safety standards. The entire process follows a structured, multi-stage processwhich our specialists carry out with the utmost care to ensure optimum results and maximum safety.
Counselling interview
Detailed analysis by the doctor and photo documentation
Preparation
Cleaning, disinfection and marking of the injection points
Injection
Precise placement of the filler in several layers of tissue
Follow-up check
Modelling and gentle massage for optimal distribution
Step 1: Detailed consultation and precise analysis
Every hyaluronic acid treatment begins with a comprehensive consultation with our specialists, who typically 30 to 45 minutes takes. The doctor not only analyses the current depth and shape of your nasolabial folds starting from the nostril, but also your individual facial anatomy, the condition of your midface, cheeks, facial expressions and personal wishes. High-resolution photos are taken from different angles to document the initial state and determine the optimal injection points for the injections.
During this analysis phase, our specialists also discuss how much hyaluronic acid is required, which areas of the midface should also be treated and which injection technique is optimal. The facial anatomy, in particular the line from the nostrils to the cheeks, is analysed in detail in order to achieve the best possible and most natural result from the injections. Possible risks, realistic expectations and aftercare are also discussed.
Step 2: Professional preparation and hygiene
The area to be treated, from the wing of the nose to the corner of the mouth, is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. All make-up must be removed in order to avoid Sterile working environment that is safe for the body. The injection sites in the area of the nostrils and along the crease are precisely marked by the doctor, using the previously prepared treatment plan as a guide.
Step 3: Precise injection with the hyaluronic filler
The actual treatment is carried out with fine needles or blunt cannulas and only takes about 20 to 30 minutes. When injecting, the doctor places the filler in different layers of the tissue to achieve a natural, three-dimensional result. This takes into account how the body absorbs the hyaluronic acid and how the connective tissue reacts to the treatment:
Injection technique for injecting the nasolabial fold:
- Deep layer in the midface: Stabilisation and volume build-up in the lateral cheek area for a natural lifting effect that supports the connective tissue
- Superficial layer: Fine-tuning directly in the crease from the wing of the nose to the corner of the mouth for smoothing and modelling
- Fan technique for injecting: Distribution of the filler in several directions for an even result without visible nodules that the body could feel
- Retrograde injection: The filler is evenly distributed when the needle is withdrawn and is optimally integrated into the connective tissue
The sensation of pain during injections varies from person to person, but is typically around 2 to 3 out of 10 points thanks to the local anaesthetic integrated into the filler. Most patients describe the sensation as slight pressure with occasional pulling, but by no means painful. The body generally tolerates the injections very well.
Step 4: Follow-up check and modelling
After the injection, the treated area is gently massaged from the wing of the nose to the corner of the mouth in order to optimally distribute the filler and even out any unevenness. The result is immediately visibleHowever, slight swelling may occur in the first few days while the body integrates the hyaluronic acid into the connective tissue. You are fit for socialising immediately after the treatment and can continue your normal daily routine.
How much hyaluronic acid is needed? Cost of the treatment
The amount of hyaluronic acid required for nasolabial fold treatment depends heavily on the initial situation, the condition of the midface and the cheeks. This precise dosage by the doctor is crucial for a successful result. Natural result without overfilling.
The cost of treatment for nasolabial folds with hyaluronic acid varies depending on the amount required and the product used. In our practice, our specialists only use high-quality, certified hyaluronic fillers that are optimally tolerated by the body and are known for their longevity and natural results when injected. These premium fillers differ in their cross-linking density and are therefore suitable for different injection depths and treatment goals.
You will receive precise price information in a personal consultation with our doctor. The Investment in high-quality fillers and professional treatment by experienced specialists pays off in the long term with natural results, longer durability and minimised risks.
Important note on holistic treatment: If the nasolabial folds are very pronounced, it may also be useful to use the Cheek augmentation with hyaluronic acid should be considered. By lifting the cheek area in the mid-face region, the wrinkle from the wing of the nose to the corner of the mouth is often already visually softened so that less filler needs to be injected directly into the nasolabial fold. This leads to a more natural, youthful overall appearance and avoids the risk of overfilling.
Results: What can realistically be expected?
The results of hyaluronic acid treatment for nasolabial folds are visible immediately after injection, which many patients find particularly satisfying. However, the effect develops Gradually over several dayswhile the body integrates the filler into the connective tissue, so that the final result can only be assessed after the swelling has completely subsided.
Direct impact and development
Immediately after the injection, the nasolabial fold from the wing of the nose to the corner of the mouth appears significantly reduced. The skin appears smoother, the cheeks fuller and the face fresher. Over the following days, the filler is increasingly integrated into the tissue and connective tissue and binds water, which leads to an additional improvement in volume in the mid-face. Slight swelling is completely normal and shows that the body is absorbing and processing the active ingredient.
| Timing | Visible change | Special features |
|---|---|---|
| Immediately after treatment | Significant filling of the nostril visible | Slight swelling possible, immediately socially acceptable |
| Day 1-3 | Swelling subsides | Filler settles, body binds moisture |
| Day 7-14 | Recognisable end result | Optimal time for assessment by a doctor |
| Month 1-3 | Maximum effect in the midface | Filler fully integrated into the connective tissue |
| Month 12-18 | Gradual degradation through the body | Individual variation, refreshing possible |
Long-term effect and durability
The shelf life of hyaluronic acid in the nasolabial fold is typically 12 to 18 monthsThis period is influenced by various individual factors. The duration is significantly longer than in other facial regionsas the nasolabial region from the nostril to the corner of the mouth is exposed to less mimic stress than the lips, for example.
Factors that influence durability:
- Metabolic rate: People with a faster metabolism break down hyaluronic acid more quickly, the body processes the active ingredient at different speeds
- Filler density: Highly cross-linked, denser fillers last longer than soft products and are broken down more slowly by the body
- Lifestyle factors: Sport, sauna and sun exposure can accelerate the degradation process
- Injection depth when injecting: Hyaluron placed deeper in the connective tissue generally lasts longer than hyaluron injected superficially
- Mimic activity: Strong facial expressions can lead to faster degeneration in the midface area
- Age and skin quality: Younger skin with good connective tissue and elasticity supports the effect for longer
After the filler is gradually broken down by the body, the wrinkle returns to its original state. There is no habituation effect and no deterioration compared to the condition before the injection. You can decide for yourself whether and when you would like to see your doctor for a top-up. Many patients opt for a follow-up treatment before the filler has completely degraded in order to maintain the results in the midface.
What should you consider before and after the treatment?
Aftercare following a hyaluronic acid treatment is uncomplicated and requires There are only a few restrictions. Nevertheless, there are some important points to bear in mind to ensure optimal results when injecting and to minimise the risk of complications so that the body can optimally integrate the filler into the connective tissue.
Prepare before treatment
- Avoid alcohol, aspirin and other blood-thinning medication 3-5 days before your appointment with the doctor
- No vitamin E, omega-3 or gingko supplements (increase bleeding tendency, burden the body)
- Come without make-up or remove make-up before the injection on site
- Inform our specialists about allergies, medication and pre-existing conditions
- Do not plan any important appointments for 2-3 days after the injection
Immediately after the injection (first 48 hours)
- If necessary, cool the treated area from the nostril to the corner of the mouth with a cooling pad
- Avoid sport, sauna and intense heat for 24-48 hours so that the body can integrate the filler
- No make-up for at least 6 hours in the cheek and mid-face area
- No facial massages or cosmetic treatments
- No strong facial movements or pressure on the treated area
The first few days after treatment
- If possible, sleep on your back with your head slightly raised for the first few nights
- Avoid extreme temperatures (sauna, solarium, steam bath)
- No dental treatments for 2 weeks to protect the midface
- Avoid alcohol for 24-48 hours so as not to put additional strain on the body
- Drink enough water to support the hyaluronic acid in the connective tissue
After one week: return to normality
- All normal activities can be resumed
- Sports, sauna and massages in the cheek area are possible again
- Make-up and skincare without restrictions
- The result can now be assessed objectively by the doctor
- In the event of irregularities, please contact our specialists for a check-up appointment
Swelling and typical side effects
Slight swelling, redness or minor bruising are normal after wrinkle injections from the nostril to the corner of the mouth and usually disappear within a few days. 24 to 72 hours off. These reactions show that the body is absorbing the filler and processing it into the connective tissue. In rare cases, swelling can last up to a week, especially in patients with sensitive skin or low blood pressure.
Cooling and elevating your head when sleeping help to minimise discomfort and support the body in healing. Avoid decongestant medication without consulting your doctor, as some active ingredients can affect blood clotting.
Risks, side effects and dissolution with Hyalase
Although treatment with hyaluronic acid for nasolabial folds is considered very safe, as with any medical procedure, side effects can occur during injections.
Frequent, harmless side effects
Most of the side effects occur Directly after the injection and disappear on their own within a few hours to days, while the body integrates the filler into the connective tissue:
- Slight swelling and redness at the puncture sites from the wing of the nose to the corner of the mouth - usually disappear within 24-72 hours
- Small bruises (haematomas) in around 10-15% of patients in the cheek area - can be easily covered with make-up
- Sensitivity to pressure for a few days in the treated area of the midface
- Slight asymmetries immediately after treatment - usually even themselves out
- Temporary numbness due to the lidocaine in the filler
Rare complications: Prevention and treatment
Rare risks (less than 1% of cases) when injecting:
- Granuloma formation (small nodules under the skin in the connective tissue)
- Allergic reactions to the filler or lidocaine that the body cannot tolerate
- Infection at the puncture site (extremely rare when specialists work under sterile conditions)
- Vascular occlusion - the most serious but extremely rare complication
When used properly by experienced doctors with in-depth anatomical knowledge of the midface, cheeks and nostrils, serious or permanent side effects are extremely rare.
Hyalase: The safety insurance for your treatment
Important safety information: If you are not satisfied with the result of the injection or if undesirable effects occur, hyaluronic acid can be replaced at any time with the enzyme Hyalase (hyaluronidase) which the body breaks down naturally. This is a major advantage over permanent fillers and gives you additional security.
Hyalase breaks down the hyaluronic acid molecules in the connective tissue and leads to a complete or partial dissolution of the filler within 24-48 hours, which the body then excretes naturally. This enzyme is also crucial in the treatment of vascular occlusions by our doctor and is therefore part of our standard emergency equipment.
Serious complications such as vascular occlusion are extremely rare, but can occur if injections are not carried out correctly.
Contraindications: When is the treatment not suitable?
In the following cases, hyaluronic acid injections should be avoided or postponed them become:
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding (as a precaution for the body)
- Acute inflammation or infection in the treatment area from the nostril to the corner of the mouth
- Known allergy to hyaluronic acid or lidocaine
- Autoimmune diseases or disorders of wound healing in the connective tissue
- Tendency to keloids or excessive scarring
- Taking strong blood thinners without consulting a doctor
- Active herpes infection on the face (treatment possible after healing)
During the consultation with our doctor, your medical history will be discussed in detail to ensure that the injection is suitable and safe for you. Your health and your body are our top priority.
Combination options with other treatments
Various aesthetic treatments can be combined to achieve a harmonious overall facial result.
Proven combinations for optimum results
Botulinum toxin type A (e.g. Botox®) for the forehead and Crow's feet: While hyaluronic acid builds up volume during injections and fills the nasolabial fold from the wing of the nose to the corner of the mouth, hyaluronic acid relaxes the nasolabial fold. Botulinum toxin mimic muscles. A combination of both treatments can ensure a rejuvenated, natural overall appearance of the entire face. The treatment of the Frown line in combination with the filling of the nasolabial folds.
Hyaluron for the lips: As the lips and nasolabial folds are located in the same area of the face, these regions are often treated together during injections to create a harmonious overall appearance in the midface. The treatment of the Marionette pleats between the corner of the mouth and chin complements the result perfectly.
Microneedling against wrinkles: This method stimulates the body's own collagen production in the connective tissue and can improve the skin quality in the cheek and mid-face area in the long term, which supports and prolongs the effect of hyaluronic fillers during injections. The improved skin structure ensures an even more natural result.
Mesotherapy for the face: Improves skin structure and elasticity through microinjections of vitamins and hyaluronic acid. This treatment is ideal as a basis or supplement to wrinkle injections and strengthens the connective tissue.
Thulium laser: For skin tightening and improvement of skin quality in the area from the wing of the nose to the corner of the mouth, which further optimises the result of the hyaluronic acid treatment and can extend its durability.
Other applications of hyaluronic acid for facial injections include Chin augmentationthe contouring of the Jawlinethe treatment of dark circles or the correction of Nose wrinkles.
The combination of different procedures is individually tailored to your needs and goals. Often a Step-by-step procedure This makes sense, in which the most important areas of the midface and cheeks are treated first, followed by additional treatments after a few weeks.
Medical Director Medical NOVA GmbH
Specialist in ophthalmology and optometry | ophthalmic surgeon | specialist in aesthetic medicine
Over 15 years of international experience | 10,000+ successful eye operations
Further information about the author | Our team | About Medical NOVA
Frequently asked questions about hyaluronic acid for nasolabial folds
Based on our experience, we have developed the Frequently asked questions from our patients compiled for you. These should help you to make an informed decision about injections and dispel any possible uncertainties.
How much hyaluronic acid is needed for nasolabial folds?
The amount required for injections varies depending on the extent of the wrinkle from the nostril to the corner of the mouth and the individual anatomy of the midface. The exact amount is determined during the consultation with the doctor, whereby we always dose conservatively and prefer to re-treat if necessary rather than injecting too much from the outset.
How much does a treatment of the nasolabial fold with hyaluronic acid cost?
The cost of injections depends on the amount of hyaluronic acid required and the product used. You will receive precise price information in our personal consultation with our specialists. As a general rule, investing in high-quality products and professional treatment by an experienced doctor pays off with longer durability, more natural results and minimised risks.
How quickly do you see results after treatment?
The result is visible immediately after the injection, which many patients find particularly satisfying. Immediately after treatment, the nasolabial fold from the nostril to the corner of the mouth appears significantly reduced, the cheeks fuller and the skin smoother. However, the final result only becomes apparent after 7 to 14 days, when any swelling has completely subsided and the filler has optimally integrated into the tissue and connective tissue. During this time, the hyaluronic acid binds water and develops its full volumising effect in the midface. Some patients even notice a slight improvement in the first few weeks, as the hyaluronic acid stimulates collagen production in the connective tissue and the body reacts naturally.
Can a nasolabial fold disappear completely?
Complete elimination of the nasolabial fold is not usually the aim of injections and is also not recommended, as this would result in an unnatural, "mask-like" appearance. The nasolabial fold from the wing of the nose to the corner of the mouth is a natural anatomical structure that is part of the individual facial expression. The aim is to significantly soften the wrinkle so that the face appears fresher and more youthful without losing its natural facial expressions and expressiveness. Severely pronounced wrinkles can be significantly reduced by the doctor, leaving a residual volume of the wrinkle. The result should always look harmonious and natural - as if you simply looked well rested and refreshed.
How long do the results of a hyaluronic acid treatment last?
The duration of action of hyaluronic acid in the nasolabial fold is typically between 12 and 18 months, which is significantly longer than in other areas of the face such as the lips (6-9 months). However, this can vary from individual to individual, depending on how quickly the body breaks down the hyaluronic acid, as well as factors such as metabolic rate, lifestyle (sport, sauna), mimic activity and the type of filler used for injections. Highly cross-linked, denser fillers tend to last longer than soft products. After gradual degradation, the wrinkle returns to its original state without any deterioration from its pre-treatment state. Interestingly, many patients report that the duration of effect increases over time with regular treatments by the doctor, as the hyaluronic acid stimulates the body's own collagen production in the connective tissue.
What should I avoid after the treatment?
In the first 24 to 48 hours after the injection, you should avoid sport, sauna, solarium and intensive facial massages in the cheek and mid-face area, as increased blood circulation and heat can increase the swelling. No make-up for at least 6 hours from the nostril to the corner of the mouth to avoid infection. If possible, sleep on your back with your head slightly elevated and avoid applying strong pressure to the treated area. Alcohol should also be avoided on the day of treatment as it affects blood clotting and increases the risk of bruising. No dental treatments for at least 2 weeks, as strong mouth movements can affect the distribution of the filler in the connective tissue. After about a week, all normal activities can be resumed without restriction and the body has fully integrated the filler.
What else can be done against the nasolabial fold - apart from hyaluronic acid?
In addition to hyaluronic acid injections, there are other options for improving nasolabial folds from the nostril to the corner of the mouth. Microneedling against wrinkles stimulates collagen production in the connective tissue and improves the skin structure in the mid-face in the long term. The Mesotherapy can improve skin quality through microinjections of vitamins. Thulium laser tightens the skin and reduces fine lines. In combination with hyaluronic acid Marionette pleats, Crow's feet or the Frown line to achieve a harmonious overall appearance in the cheeks and midface.
Can the treatment be combined with other aesthetic procedures?
Yes, the combination is not only possible, but often particularly useful and effective when injecting. Combinations with Cheek augmentationas lifting the cheeks in the midface visually softens the nasolabial fold from the wing of the nose to the corner of the mouth. The simultaneous treatment of the Lips or the contouring of the Jawline is very popular. Botulinum toxin for the forehead can round off the overall result by relaxing mimic wrinkles. The treatment of dark circles perfectly complements the rejuvenated appearance. Our specialists will discuss the optimum combination, sequence and ideal timing in detail during your individual consultation.
What happens if I am unhappy with the result?
In the extremely rare case that you are not satisfied with the result of the injection, there are several possible solutions offered by our doctor. Small asymmetries or irregularities in the area from the nostril to the corner of the mouth can be corrected by gentle massage or a follow-up treatment. For larger corrections, the filler can be dissolved with the enzyme hyalase (hyaluronidase), which the body breaks down naturally - this is a major advantage of hyaluronic acid over permanent fillers. Dissolution takes place within 24-48 hours. As the treatment is completely reversible, your original appearance will return after a few months at the latest if no correction is desired. Your satisfaction and well-being are the top priority for our specialists, which is why we take time for follow-up checks and fine-tuning.
At what age should nasolabial folds be treated?
There is no general age recommendation for injections, as the appearance of the nasolabial folds from the nostril to the corner of the mouth depends heavily on individual factors such as the condition of the connective tissue, cheeks and midface. In general, wrinkles become increasingly visible from around 30-35 years of age, with genetic predisposition, sun exposure, smoking habits and facial expressions playing a major role. Some people develop pronounced wrinkles at a younger age, while others only show changes that require treatment at 50+. The decisive factor is not the biological age, but the individual findings and your personal level of suffering. For very young patients (<25 Jahre) sollte zunächst durch den Arzt geprüft werden, ob die Ursache in mangelnder Hautpflege oder Mimik liegt, die anders adressiert werden kann. Nach oben gibt es keine strikte Altersgrenze, solange die Hautqualität und das Bindegewebe eine Behandlung sinnvoll erscheinen lassen.
Conclusion: Hyaluron against nasolabial folds - an effective and safe solution
Injecting the nasolabial fold with hyaluronic acid is a proven and gentle way to effectively reduce wrinkles from the nostril to the corner of the mouth on the face and achieve a fresher, more youthful appearance. The treatment is minimally invasive, requires no downtime and delivers immediate, natural results that last 12-18 months. Precise placement of the filler in different layers of the connective tissue by our specialists creates a harmonious lifting effect in the mid-face without making the face look overfilled or unnatural.
The Hyaluronic acid as an active ingredient offers decisive advantages when injecting: It is endogenous, completely biodegradable and reversible with hyalase in an emergency. The body recognises the substance as natural and integrates it into the connective tissue without any problems. Unlike permanent fillers, it gives you full control over your appearance. The modern injection technique with fine needles or blunt cannulas makes the treatment virtually painless, and the integration of lidocaine into the filler provides additional comfort during injections.
At Medical NOVA in Bülach near Zurich, our experienced specialists carry out wrinkle treatment with hyaluronic acid according to the highest medical standards. We only use certified, high-quality hyaluronic fillers and attach great importance to your safety and satisfaction. Each treatment is planned and carried out individually so that you feel completely comfortable in your skin.