Dermal Fillers for Nasolabial Folds

Because we make a bespoke treatment plan with every patient, and every person will need different amounts, we charge per volume but make sure that we are as economical as possible with optimal technique and in some cases blending fillers to the right consistency.

Anywhere between 0.5-2 ml are needed on each side; younger patients who already have plump tissues without volume loss will need relatively little, whereas patients who have more advanced changes need significantly more. Dr Thomas will discuss the individualised treatment plan with every patient; for information regarding the cost please see our price list.

On average we would expect dermal filler to typically last 9-12 months but this can vary significantly. We only use the best and most expensive products such as Juvederm, Restylane, Belotero and Teoxane RHA family.

Recovery time varies for each patient and each type of filler injected. You can resume most activities right away, but it is generally recommended that you avoid intense physical activity for the first 24-48 hours to minimise swelling and bruising.

Although many clinics advise against drinking alcohol for 24 hours, there is no evidence this is beneficial and can be restrictive – we do however suggest moderate amounts are sensible.

The treatment is with a microcannula to reduce complications and entry points and is not usually painful. Dr Thomas takes great care to minimise discomfort further with cooling, vibration, meticulous technique, and uses fillers that are pre-mixed with local anaesthetic (therefore minimising the discomfort from subsequent injections).

As with any medical treatment, there can be side effects although these are usually mild given that hyaluronic acid is a natural substance. Transient swelling is common sometimes with occasional redness and bruising which settle after a couple of days. Dr Thomas will discuss all possible side effects at the time of the assessment. 

Although a large blood vessel passes close to the nasolabial fold, serious complications are minimised with careful technique, expert knowledge of anatomy and blunt-tipped microcannula. Fortunately, hyaluronic acid fillers also have a substance which can break up the dermal filler and reverse the effects of blood vessel blockages.