Nasolabial folds, commonly known as smile lines or laugh lines, are the creases that run from the sides of the nose to the corners of the mouth. While they’re a completely normal part of facial movement and expression, deep nasolabial folds can become more noticeable over time due to age-related changes, sun damage, or loss of skin firmness. For some, these lines can create a tired or aged appearance, even when the rest of the face looks youthful. At Gilpin Facial Plastics and Aesthetics, we offer advanced, customized nasolabial fold treatment options designed to reduce nasolabial folds and restore contours to the mid-face.
What Are Nasolabial Folds?
Nasolabial folds, also known as smile lines or laugh lines, are the deep creases that run from the sides of the nose to the corners of the mouth. While they’re a natural part of facial anatomy and expression, nasolabial folds can become more pronounced with age, sun damage, or weight loss, resulting in a tired or aged appearance. For many, these lines are among the first signs of skin aging, often appearing alongside marionette lines, frown lines, and sagging skin.
Causes of Nasolabial Folds
Several age-related and lifestyle factors contribute to the development of nasolabial folds, including:
- Natural aging: As we age, our collagen production slows, leading to a loss of skin firmness and connective tissue support in the facial area.
- Weight loss or weight gain: Fluctuations can stretch or deflate the facial skin, deepening the nasolabial crease.
- Sun damage: UV rays and free radical damage from the environment can break down collagen and accelerate aging.
- Strong facial expressions: Over time, repetitive movement of the facial muscles during smiling, laughing, or talking can accentuate nasolabial folds.
- Facial anatomy: The structure of your cheeks, facial fat pads, and facial artery positioning can influence how early or deeply folds appear.
Even people with good skin texture, a healthy diet, and skincare habits can experience prominent nasolabial folds due to genetics or the natural descent of facial fat over time.
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IN A LUXURY SURGICAL PRACTICE
Investing in your confidence is a big step, and your choice of facial plastic surgeon should reflect it. We offer a premier, luxury environment where you can focus on yourself.
With the help of our professional and knowledgeable team, you can begin your journey toward a more confident you. We’ll take every step to ensure you feel comfortable, pampered, and acknowledged. Begin your refined and cultivated experience here at Gilpin Facial Plastics & Aesthetics.
Symptoms and Signs
You may notice:
- Lines or creases running from the nose to the mouth
- A deepening of these facial lines when smiling or at rest
- Loose skin or volume loss in the mid-face that accentuates nasolabial folds
- A more tired or aged appearance, even with otherwise healthy skin
- Wrinkles or shadowing in the nasolabial fold area that makeup can’t conceal
Treatments for Nasolabial Folds
Dr. Gilpin offers a range of proven treatments for nasolabial folds, designed to reduce their appearance and restore smoothness and balance to the face:
Dermal Fillers
One of the most popular and effective cosmetic procedures for nasolabial folds is dermal fillers. Often made from hyaluronic acid, these injections are administered beneath the fold to add volume, smooth the crease, and restore contour.
Skin Tightening Procedures
For patients with sagging skin and reduced skin firmness, non-invasive skin tightening procedures can help stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture in the nasolabial fold area.
Thread-Based Interventions
Thread lifts provide a minimally invasive method for repositioning facial skin, thereby reducing depth while supporting the surrounding tissues. This option is suitable for those seeking natural-looking improvements without surgery.
Medical Grade Skincare
In mild cases, vitamin C serums and antioxidant-rich products can help reduce laugh lines and support collagen growth. Avoiding tanning beds and practicing good skincare habits also helps slow down the aging process.
PATIENT REVIEWS
Benefits of Professional Treatment
Seeking professional care for nasolabial folds at Gilpin Facial Plastics ensures:
- Natural-looking, symmetrical results tailored to your facial anatomy
- Safe, precise placement of filler with an understanding of surgical anatomy
- Improved appearance of nasolabial folds with minimal downtime
- A more refreshed, youthful appearance without compromising expressiveness
What to Expect During Treatment
Results in
1-2 weeks
Recovery
3-7 days
Lasts
6-18 months
Based on your goals, Dr. Gilpin will recommend a personalized treatment plan, which may include dermal fillers, skin tightening, or other cosmetic solutions. Most treatments take less than 45 minutes and require little to no downtime. You may experience minor swelling or bruising, but results are visible quickly and continue to improve over several days as the collagen production process is activated.
read moreDavid Gilpin, MD
Dr. David Gilpin is a native of Nashville, TN. After graduating from Vanderbilt University with a degree in Biomedical Engineering, Dr. Gilpin pursued his M.D. from The University of Tennessee…
Meet The DoctorNext Steps
If you’re bothered by deep nasolabial folds, smile lines, or early signs of facial aging, it’s time to take the next step toward smoother, more youthful skin. At Gilpin Facial Plastics and Aesthetics, we combine advanced techniques with an artistic approach to help you look refreshed without looking overdone. Schedule your consultation today and let us help you reflect your inner vitality.
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Are you looking to enhance your appearance and boost your confidence? Complete this form to learn more or schedule a consultation with one of our experts at our Nashville, TN office. From facial plastic surgery to lasers & aesthetics, we offer a variety of services that help you put your best face forward.
Ask a QuestionDr. David Gilpin is Nashville’s most accomplished dual board-certified facial plastic surgeon and founder of Gilpin Facial Plastics, the city’s largest facial plastic surgery and medspa practice. With advanced fellowship training under one of the world’s leading experts in facial plastic surgery, Dr. Gilpin is renowned for delivering natural, personalized results through both surgical and non-surgical facial procedures. Featured in Nashville Lifestyles, recognized as a RealSelf Top Doctor, and a national speaker, Dr. Gilpin is trusted by A-list clients and peers alike for his unparalleled expertise and compassionate care. His leadership and reputation firmly establish him as the most qualified and sought-after facial plastic surgeon in Nashville, TN







