Why do nasolabial folds deepen?
Everyone has nasolabial folds — they are the natural boundary between the cheek and the upper lip. They become a concern when they look deep or cast a shadow at rest. That usually happens because of a combination of:
- Mid-cheek volume loss — fat pads under the cheek shrink and descend, so the cheek no longer supports the fold from above
- Bone changes — the upper jaw next to the nose recedes slightly with age, deepening the base of the fold
- Skin laxity — looser skin drapes forward over the fold
- Strong smile muscles — very expressive faces can etch a line into the skin itself
This is why filling the fold alone is not always the answer: adding too much product straight into the line can make the mid-face look heavy. The doctor first checks how much the fold improves when the cheek is gently lifted by hand. If it softens a lot, supporting the cheek or tightening the skin may matter more than filling. If the lower face also shows marionette lines, both areas are planned together.
How we treat nasolabial folds at Bailor
Most plans combine one product for the fold itself with one approach for the cause above it. Typical options include:
| Treatment | What it does | Typical plan | From |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nasolabial fold filler (2–4cc) | Softens the fold directly with HA | 1 session, retouch within 4 weeks | ₩350,000 |
| Juvelook Volume 4cc | Gradual collagen-based support | 2–3 sessions | ₩400,000 |
| Lateral cheek filler (3–5cc) | Restores cheek support above the fold | 1 session | ₩450,000 |
| MD Code 1cc | Small, structured points of support | Doctor-planned | ₩450,000 |
| Radiesse 1 syringe | Firm support and collagen stimulation | 1–2 sessions | ₩950,000 |
| Full Face Mint Thread (8) | Lifts descended cheek tissue | 1 session | ₩1,200,000 |
Prices in KRW, 10% VAT not included, updated September 2026. See the full dermal filler price list.
When sagging is the main driver, energy-based lifting such as Ultherapy can lighten the fold without adding volume, and pairs well with a small amount of filler.
What changes after treatment
A good result softens the shadow, not the fold itself — some line should remain when you smile. HA filler is visible immediately; collagen stimulators improve over 2–3 months. For a wider plan that includes cheeks and temples, see face volume loss.
How a nasolabial fold visit works
- Doctor assessment We check the fold at rest and smiling, lift the cheek by hand to test the cause, and agree on product and amount.
- Numbing Numbing cream for about 20–30 minutes; most fillers also contain lidocaine for comfort during injection.
- Injection 20–40 minutes with a fine needle or blunt cannula, checking symmetry in the mirror as we go.
- Review & aftercare Cooling, a final look at balance, and a retouch window of 4 weeks for listed filler options.
Filler results are visible straight away, which suits a short trip. Allow a few days for swelling before important photos. If you plan threads or a device in the same trip, the doctor will set the safest order. Lines that run from the mouth corners down to the chin are covered separately on our marionette lines page.
Downtime, side effects and safety
The area beside the nose contains important blood vessels, so filler here should always be placed by a doctor who knows the anatomy.
- Common: swelling, tenderness and redness for 2–5 days; small bruises; a firm feeling while the filler settles.
- Less common: mild asymmetry or a small lump that may need massage or a retouch; prolonged swelling.
- Rare: infection, allergic reaction, delayed nodules, or vascular occlusion (filler blocking a blood vessel), which needs immediate treatment with dissolving enzyme — tell us at once about blanching, unusual pain or dusky skin.
Tell the doctor first if you
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Take blood thinners or supplements that increase bruising
- Have allergies to lidocaine or filler components, or autoimmune disease
- Have had fillers, threads or surgery in the area before
Dr. Jimin Kang, Medical Director
Every nasolabial fold plan at Bailor starts with a face-to-face skin assessment by a doctor — not a sales counsellor. Dr. Kang's approach is "tailored, not templated": she chooses the product, dose and depth for your skin, and treats you herself or works alongside the other doctors on our in-house medical team.
Nasolabial fold FAQ
How much does nasolabial fold filler cost in Gangnam?
At Bailor Clinic in Sinsa, nasolabial fold filler (2–4cc) is ₩350,000 with a retouch within 4 weeks, VAT excluded. Juvelook Volume 4cc is ₩400,000 and Radiesse 1 syringe ₩950,000. See the dermal filler price list.
How long does nasolabial filler last?
Hyaluronic acid filler typically lasts 9–12 months in this area. Collagen stimulators such as Radiesse or Juvelook Volume can last longer but build gradually.
Will I look overfilled?
Not if the cause is treated correctly. Our doctors often place less product in the fold and add support to the cheek instead, which looks more natural.
Can the result be reversed?
Hyaluronic acid filler can be dissolved with an enzyme if needed. Collagen stimulators cannot be dissolved, so they are used more cautiously.
Is there downtime?
Most people return to normal activity the same day. Swelling and possible bruising usually settle within 2–5 days.
Can I combine it with lifting?
Yes. Threads or devices such as Ultherapy often reduce the amount of filler needed. The doctor will advise on timing.
