Volume Restoration for Smile Lines (Nasolabial Folds)
Smile lines — known clinically as nasolabial folds — are the creases that run from the sides of the nose to the corners of the mouth. The volume restoration treatments most commonly used to soften smile lines use hyaluronic acid, a substance that occurs naturally in the body. There is no single product that suits everyone; the right product and technique depend on the depth of your folds and your facial structure, which is why a consultation with an AHPRA-registered cosmetic nurse is required. Smile line treatments are available at our Gold Coast and Melbourne clinics.
Nasolabial folds are a normal part of facial anatomy that deepen over time. As we age, the face loses fat and bone volume in the mid-face and cheeks, and the tissue descends along the fold. Declining collagen, repeated facial movement, sun exposure, and genetics all contribute. Because the fold is often driven by lost volume higher in the face, treatment frequently focuses on restoring cheek support as well as the fold itself.
Hyaluronic acid (HA) products are the type most commonly used for smile lines. Firmer, more structured products are often chosen for deeper folds or to rebuild cheek support, while softer products may be used for finer lines. A combined approach — supporting the cheeks and then treating the fold — is common. The product may be delivered with a fine needle or a blunt-tipped cannula. All products are TGA-approved and administered by AHPRA-registered cosmetic nurses, with the product and technique determined during your consultation.
Nasolabial folds are largely static folds caused by volume loss, so volume restoration treatments — which replace volume and support the tissue — are usually the appropriate option. Wrinkle-softening treatments relax muscles and suit dynamic lines caused by movement, such as frown lines. Your practitioner will assess which approach suits your concern during your consultation.
Treatment begins with a consultation to assess your facial structure, skin quality, and the depth of your folds. If treatment is suitable, a personalised plan is created. A topical anaesthetic may be applied, and most HA products contain lidocaine to reduce discomfort. Treatment for smile lines typically takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on whether the cheeks are also treated.
Some swelling, tenderness, and occasional bruising are normal. Swelling is usually most noticeable in the first 24 to 48 hours and settles over 1 to 2 weeks; bruising generally clears within 5 to 10 days. Volume restoration in the nasolabial folds and cheeks commonly lasts around 12 to 18 months, though this varies. Contact the clinic immediately if you notice increasing pain, unusual swelling, or skin colour changes.
Volume restoration treatment carries potential risks discussed during your consultation. Common side effects include swelling, bruising, redness, and tenderness. Less common but serious risks include infection, product migration, nodule formation, and vascular occlusion. The area around the nose and nasolabial folds contains blood vessels that require careful attention, so treatment should only be performed by a suitably qualified practitioner. Hyaluronic acid products can be dissolved with hyaluronidase if needed.
No single product is right for everyone. Hyaluronic acid products are most commonly used; a firmer product is often chosen for deeper folds or cheek support, while a softer product may suit finer lines. The most suitable product is determined during your consultation.
Volume restoration can soften the appearance of smile lines, and deeper folds often respond well when the cheeks are also supported. The treatment reduces the appearance of the fold rather than removing it entirely, and results vary between individuals.
Nasolabial folds are usually caused by volume loss, so volume restoration treatments are typically the appropriate option. Wrinkle-softening treatments suit dynamic lines caused by movement, such as frown lines. Your practitioner will assess which approach suits your concern.
Volume restoration placed in the nasolabial folds and cheeks commonly lasts around 12 to 18 months, though longevity varies depending on the product, the area treated, and individual factors.
Volume restoration treatments are widely used but, like all cosmetic treatments, carry risks. The area around the nose contains blood vessels that require careful attention, so treatment should only be performed by a suitably qualified practitioner. All products used are TGA-approved and administered by AHPRA-registered cosmetic nurses.
All cosmetic treatments carry risks. A consultation with our AHPRA-registered practitioners is required to determine suitability. Individual results may vary.
New patients: a $35 doctor scripting fee applies. This covers the prescribing consultation required before any Schedule 4 treatment. It applies to new patients and anyone who has not visited in the past 12 months, and is included in the quote you receive.
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