Nasolabial folds, or smile lines are, in simple terms, “a single wrinkle line” that runs from the side of the nose down toward the corners of the mouth. However, once these wrinkles become deeper, they can make the face look noticeably older, becoming a difficult concern for many people to deal with. In reality, nasolabial folds are one of the major signs of aging that can significantly change the overall impression of the face. In the consultation room, patients frequently describe their concerns by saying, “I look tired because of my smile lines even when I am not smiling,” “It feels as if my cheeks have collapsed downward,” “The corners of my mouth drooped and it makes me look sad,” or “My smile lines make me look much older than I actually am.”
Do nasolabial folds develop simply because of aging?
Nasolabial folds that are not caused by a structural problem but develop secondarily over time are not merely an issue of the skin surface. They are the result of multiple factors being reflected together, including descent of the anterior cheek fat layer, decreased skin elasticity, weakening of the retaining ligaments, movement from facial expressions, and skeletal changes caused by bone resorption. When the nasolabial folds become deeper, the marionette lines below them often descend together, and the jawline may also become less defined. For this reason, when the central face and lower face sag at the same time, simply filling the nasolabial folds often has clear limitations.
What if fillers or fat grafting alone are not enough?
Many people first think of fillers when they begin to notice nasolabial folds. In fact, if the main cause of the nasolabial folds is volume deficiency, fillers or fat grafting may be helpful. When the anterior cheek has become hollow and the nasolabial area has sunken in, creating a shadow, simply supplementing the deficient volume can make the overall impression appear softer.
However, if the cause of the nasolabial folds is not an “indented line” but rather the “boundary of cheek tissue that has sagged downward,” a different treatment approach is needed. If the cheek tissue has descended and created a fold between the side of the nose and the corners of the mouth, injecting a large amount of filler only into the nasolabial area can instead make the face look swollen or make the area around the mouth look heavy. This is why, in the treatment of nasolabial folds, the cause must be distinguished first. The treatment direction changes depending on whether the concern is simple volume deficiency, decreased skin elasticity, or sagging of the midface and perioral tissues.
What are the main causes that make nasolabial folds deepen?
The first cause of deepening nasolabial folds is a change in midface volume and fat layers. When we are young, the fat layers located under the cheekbones and in the anterior cheek area sit relatively high and support the central part of the face. However, as time passes, the deep fat layers may shrink or move downward, and the superficial fat may be redistributed around the areas where folds form. As a result, the nasolabial folds can become more clearly visible.
The second cause is a decrease in the elasticity of the skin and dermal layer. When the skin becomes thinner and the supporting strength of collagen and elastin weakens, crease marks can remain for a longer time even with the same facial expression movements. UV exposure, smoking, excessive dieting, lack of sleep, chronic stress, and alcohol consumption can all accelerate the decline in skin elasticity.
The third cause is weakening of the retaining ligaments and the SMAS layer. When the deep supporting structures of the face become weak, the cheek and perioral tissues move downward. However, the nasolabial fold area is anatomically fixed relatively firmly, so the tissue that has descended becomes caught along that boundary, making the wrinkle appear deeper. In this case, the nasolabial fold is not simply a line, but is closer to a structural fold created by sagging tissue.
The fourth cause is skeletal change and changes in the structures around the nose. Because nasolabial folds begin from the side of the nose, the sense of connection between the nasal tip, columella, nasal bridge, and glabella also affects the overall facial impression. Excessive rhinoplasty, or contracture caused by a previous rhinoplasty, may weaken the surrounding skin and affect the nasolabial folds.
What kind of approach is needed when nasolabial folds and marionette lines appear together?
When nasolabial folds and marionette lines have deepened together, Girin Plastic Surgery does not simply look only at the wrinkles beside the nose. Instead, we evaluate the sagging of the entire mouth area together. Marionette lines are wrinkles that descend below the corners of the mouth, and they are closely related to sagging of the lower face. When these lines appear together, the face may look tired and sad, or the impression of looking older than one’s actual age may become stronger.
At this point, the important thing is not to pull the skin strongly without considering the underlying cause. It is necessary to evaluate where the sagging tissue has descended from and in which direction, how much the anterior cheek and perioral tissues have shifted, how much the jawline has collapsed, and how much skin elasticity still remains. When tissue sagging is distinct, a surgical lifting method such as a mini facelift may be considered in order to reposition the tissues around the mouth and the lower cheek area.
How can a mini facelift help improve deep nasolabial folds?
The purpose of Girin Plastic Surgery’s mini facelift is not to excessively pull the entire face. It focuses on refining sagging tissue within the necessary range and reducing the heaviness around the mouth and lower face. In particular, when nasolabial folds and marionette lines appear together, the sagging cheek tissue and the tissues around the mouth can be repositioned in an appropriate direction, making it possible to expect a more natural improvement.
However, not every nasolabial fold requires a mini facelift. If skin elasticity is relatively good and volume deficiency is the main cause, fillers, fat grafting, skin boosters, or laser lifting may be more suitable. On the other hand, if the cheek tissue has descended and the nasolabial folds and marionette lines have deepened together, surgical lifting may be a more fundamental option than a simple injection-based procedure.
An actual Girin Plastic Surgery patient case in which deep nasolabial folds and a contracted nose were improved together
The patient introduced in this case was a woman in her 50s who had undergone rhinoplasty with an L-shaped silicone implant approximately 30 years ago, and who also had a history of receiving nose filler treatment 11 years ago. As time passed, she felt that the external appearance of her nose had become shorter, and she also said that the length extending from the glabella to the nasal bridge appeared short. However, she did not want a nose that looked overly slim from the front or obviously “done.” The most important thing to her was a “completely natural-looking look.”
At the same time, she was deeply concerned that her nasolabial folds and marionette sagging had become severe, making the area around her mouth look heavy and aged. She wanted the maximum possible improvement through a mini facelift within a realistic and feasible range. On diagnosis, the nasolabial folds and marionette lines were not simply skin wrinkles, but rather a condition in which the descent of the tissues around the mouth and cheeks was clearly evident.
Although nasolabial folds are wrinkles around the mouth, they are also connected to the balance of the central face. In particular, because this patient had a history of old implants and fillers, including an L-shaped silicone implant placed a long time ago, it was necessary to carefully examine the internal condition. When nasal contracture from previous rhinoplasty is added to aging in this way, the nose can become shorter, and if the central part of the face appears congested or heavy, the aging impression of the entire midface can feel even stronger.
The surgical plan at Girin Plastic Surgery was to perform a mini facelift to correct the nasolabial folds and marionette lines, while also planning the nose in a direction that would refine the bulbous feeling of the nasal tip, lengthen the nasal tip, and naturally lower the columella. During the actual surgery, a large amount of capsule and foreign material had formed around the silicone implant, so these were removed. After that, the support structure of the nose was reorganized. After surgery, the nasolabial folds and marionette lines were evaluated as having been corrected by approximately 90%, and the overall look was refined in line with the patient’s desired change: not excessive, but natural.
What was the important specialist judgment in this case?
The most important point in this case was that we did not look only at the nasolabial folds and simply fill or pull only the nasolabial area. From the patient’s perspective, deep nasolabial folds may begin as a concern such as, “I just want this line to disappear.” However, in reality, they may be a problem connected to the anterior cheeks, the mouth area, the jawline, and even the central axis around the nose.
In particular, when marionette lines are present together, a younger-looking impression cannot be completed simply by softening only the wrinkles beside the nose. The sagging tissue below the mouth corners, the collapse of the jawline, and the heaviness in the lower cheek area must be improved together for the face to look lighter overall. In this patient’s case as well, while correcting the nasolabial folds and marionette lines through a mini facelift, it was also necessary to reconstruct the central facial balance that had become disrupted due to the old rhinoplasty.
Is completely removing nasolabial folds a good result?
From the standpoint of the specialists at Girin Plastic Surgery, the thing we were most cautious about was the misconception that “nasolabial folds must be completely eliminated.” Anatomically, nasolabial folds are a natural boundary that exists to some degree in everyone. If one tries to remove them excessively, the central face may look puffy, the smile may look unnatural, or the area around the mouth may look awkward and heavy.
Good improvement of nasolabial folds is not about completely erasing the lines. Rather, it is about reducing the sagging and heaviness of the entire face while restoring a natural three-dimensional contour. In particular, in patients with a history of old implants, nose fillers, or revision surgery, the internal tissue condition may be different from that of a typical first-time surgery patient. If one tries to adjust only the external appearance when capsule formation or a foreign-body reaction is present, unpredictable results may occur. Therefore, a plan for safe removal and reconstruction must be prepared together.
What should be taken care of after surgery?
After a mini facelift, the tissues need time to settle stably into their new positions during the early recovery period. Therefore, for about 2 days after surgery, it is recommended to avoid turning the head widely from side to side or lifting heavy objects. This is because unnecessary tension around the face and neck can affect the recovery process.
If nasal reconstruction was performed together, recovery of the nasal tip support structure and internal tissues is also important. External impact, excessive facial expressions, and pressure around the nose should be avoided, and swelling and tissue stabilization should be monitored through regular follow-up visits. During the early recovery period, swelling, tightness, or changes that may temporarily appear asymmetric can occur. Therefore, rather than judging the result only by the short-term appearance, it is necessary to observe the recovery process according to the medical team’s guidance.
Are deep nasolabial folds caused only by age?
Deep nasolabial folds do not necessarily occur only because a person is older. Even at a relatively young age, nasolabial folds may become prominent if midface volume is congenitally insufficient, if the area under the cheekbones is hollow, or if the anterior cheeks lose volume due to rapid weight loss. On the other hand, even in older patients, if skin thickness and fat distribution are stable, the nasolabial folds may appear relatively less deep.
Therefore, treatment for nasolabial folds should not be decided based on age alone. The depth of the wrinkles, the direction of cheek sagging, skin elasticity, the condition of the mouth area and jawline, previous procedure and surgery history, and the degree of change the patient wants must all be evaluated comprehensively.
What kind of consultation is needed if deep nasolabial folds are a concern?
At Girin Plastic Surgery, consultation for nasolabial fold surgery is not about “removing the line,” but about “how to naturally restore the sagging structure.” In some cases, fillers alone may be sufficient. In other cases, laser treatment or thread lifting may be appropriate. In other cases, a surgical method such as a mini facelift may be necessary.
Ultimately, a good result is not a face that has changed excessively, but a face that feels “not awkward” when the patient looks in the mirror. This is because excessive correction can damage the patient’s own unique atmosphere. In addition, surgical methods such as minimal-incision techniques, as well as stem cell procedures, can help support faster recovery and further shorten the time needed to return to daily life.
FAQ Organized by a Girin Plastic Surgery Mini Facelift Specialist
Q. What kind of surgery is a mini facelift?
A: Unlike a traditional facelift, which widely dissects and pulls the entire face, a mini facelift is a surgery that repositions tissue within the necessary range, focusing on the areas where sagging is prominent. It is often considered especially when the concerns are nasolabial folds, marionette lines, sagging around the mouth, sagging of the lower cheeks, and a blurred jawline. Rather than simply pulling only the skin, it is important to analyze the direction and depth of the sagging tissue and lift it naturally.
Q. If the nasolabial folds are deep, can they improve with a mini facelift?
A: If the cause of the nasolabial folds is simple volume deficiency, fillers or fat grafting may be more appropriate. However, if the cheek tissue has descended downward, causing the nasolabial folds to deepen, and sagging around the mouth or marionette lines are also visible, improvement can be expected with a mini facelift. In this case, the nasolabial folds are closer to structural folds created by sagging cheek tissue rather than an “indented line,” so an approach that repositions the sagging tissue is necessary.
Q. Can a mini facelift completely remove nasolabial folds?
A: Completely eliminating nasolabial folds is not necessarily a good result. Nasolabial folds are a natural facial boundary that exists to some degree in everyone. If one tries to remove them excessively, the central face may look swollen, the smile may look awkward, or the area around the mouth may appear heavy. A good result is not about forcefully erasing the wrinkles, but about refining the sagging tissue so that the face looks lighter and more natural.
Q. Can marionette lines also improve with a mini facelift?
A: Marionette lines are sagging lines that descend below the corners of the mouth and are closely related to sagging of the lower face. When nasolabial folds and marionette lines have deepened together, the sagging of the perioral and lower cheek tissues must be evaluated together. A mini facelift may help reduce the heaviness of the sagging tissues around the mouth and jawline, and depending on the patient’s condition, some patients may feel even greater satisfaction with the improvement of the marionette lines than with the nasolabial folds.
Q. What is the difference between a mini facelift and thread lifting?
A: Thread lifting is a procedure that temporarily lifts the skin and tissue using threads without an incision. The recovery burden is relatively low, but when sagging is severe or relaxation of the skin and SMAS layer is pronounced, there may be limitations in longevity and correction power. In contrast, a mini facelift directly refines and repositions sagging tissue through incisions, so it may offer a more fundamental improvement when there is structural sagging such as sagging around the mouth or marionette lines.
Q. How are a mini facelift and a facelift different?
A: A facelift is a surgery that improves moderate to severe sagging by dissecting a wide area from the face to the neck. In contrast, a mini facelift corrects key areas such as the lower cheeks, mouth area, and jawline within a relatively limited range. If sagging is very severe, or if neck wrinkles and under-chin sagging are also pronounced, a general facelift may be more appropriate. Conversely, if the main concerns are nasolabial folds, marionette lines, and sagging around the mouth, and the patient wants natural improvement rather than an excessive change, a mini facelift may be suitable.
Q. From what age can a mini facelift be considered?
A: A mini facelift is not a surgery that is determined by age alone. Even in the late 30s or 40s, it can be considered if cheek sagging, sagging around the mouth, and marionette lines are clearly visible. Even for patients in their 50s or older, a mini facelift alone may be sufficient depending on skin elasticity and the degree of sagging. The important criteria are not the actual age, but how much the facial tissues have descended, how much skin elasticity remains, and how much change the patient wants.
Q. Can a mini facelift look natural?
A: Yes, it can. However, for a natural result, the method should not be to pull strongly without consideration. The direction of facial sagging must be accurately analyzed, and only the necessary amount of tissue should be repositioned. In particular, the areas around the mouth and nasolabial folds move frequently with facial expressions, so if they are pulled excessively, the smile may look awkward. A natural mini facelift should aim not for a “face that looks pulled up,” but for a “face that looks less tired and saggy, and more refined.”
Q. How long is the recovery period after a mini facelift?
A: There are individual differences, but initial swelling and tightness usually stabilize relatively significantly within 1 to 2 weeks after surgery. The third day after surgery is usually the period when swelling is at its highest. Bruising gradually moves downward and fades. For about 2 days after surgery, it is recommended to avoid turning the head widely from side to side or lifting heavy objects.
Q. Is the pain severe after a mini facelift?
A: Pain varies by individual, but most patients describe it more often as tightness, heaviness, or a feeling of pressure rather than severe pain. Since this is a surgery involving incision and tissue repositioning, there may be discomfort in the early stage. However, in most cases, it remains within a controllable range if the patient takes the prescribed medication and follows the recovery instructions. If the pain suddenly becomes severe or one side swells significantly more than the other, the hospital must be contacted.
Q. Are mini facelift scars very visible?
A: In a mini facelift, the incision location and suturing method are important. In general, the incision line is designed using areas that are less noticeable, such as in front of the ear or around the hairline. In the early stage, redness or firmness may be felt, but in many cases, it fades over time. However, because there may be differences depending on scar tendency, skin thickness, and recovery management, it is advisable to sufficiently check the incision location and scar management plan before surgery. Girin Plastic Surgery offers stem cell treatment and hyperbaric oxygen therapy to help support faster recovery.
Q. How long does the effect of a mini facelift last?
A: Because a mini facelift is a surgery that repositions sagging tissue, its maintenance period tends to be longer than that of simple procedures. However, aging continues even after surgery. Therefore, the effect does not remain permanently stopped in time, and the degree of maintenance may vary depending on skin elasticity, lifestyle habits, weight changes, UV exposure, and smoking or drinking status. The important point is how aging is managed after turning back the clock through surgery.
Q. Can I have a mini facelift even if I have had fillers before?
A: In many cases, it is possible. However, it is necessary to check where and how much of the existing filler remains, and whether there is any foreign-body reaction or lumping. If excessive filler has been placed in the nasolabial fold area, or if old filler remains inside the tissue, it can affect the surgical plan. If necessary, the existing filler may be dissolved, or the correction direction may be adjusted while checking the tissue condition during surgery.
Q. Can I return to daily life immediately after a mini facelift?
A: Light indoor activities are possible relatively quickly, but if the patient needs to meet many people or attend an important schedule, it is better to allow time for the swelling and bruising to subside to some degree. Immediately after surgery, the face may feel tight and look swollen, so excessive outings or exercise should be avoided. Especially in the early stage, the patient should avoid turning the head widely or lifting heavy objects.
Q. When can I exercise after a mini facelift?
A: Light walking may be possible relatively early depending on the recovery condition, but only within a maximum of 2 hours. However, exercise that causes heavy sweating, strength training, saunas, and vigorous movements should be avoided in the early recovery period. This is because increased blood pressure or pressure on the face may worsen swelling and bruising. The timing for resuming exercise differs depending on the surgical range and recovery status, so it is safest to decide after a follow-up evaluation.
Q. Will my face look too pulled after a mini facelift?
A: If the surgery is performed by pulling excessively, the result may look artificial. However, if only the necessary tissues are repositioned while considering the anatomical structure of the face and the direction of facial expressions, natural improvement is possible. The important thing is not “pulling a lot,” but “pulling in the correct direction.” In particular, because the areas around the nasolabial folds and mouth move frequently with facial expressions, natural movement must also be considered.
Q. Who is suitable for a mini facelift?
A: It can be considered in cases where fillers or thread lifting had short-lasting results or low satisfaction, and also in cases where skin sagging is difficult to resolve with simple procedures. Conversely, if the main concerns are skin texture, fine wrinkles, pigmentation, or pores rather than sagging, other treatments may need to be prioritized.
Girin Plastic Surgery places the greatest importance on the consultation process. We perform mini facelift surgery for various types of partial sagging and guide each patient only toward an improvement direction that is suitable for them. Check a treatment plan that fits your current condition based on the balance of the entire face. Results and recovery may vary depending on each individual’s condition.
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Nasolabial folds, or smile lines are, in simple terms, “a single wrinkle line” that runs from the side of the nose down toward the corners of the mouth. However, once these wrinkles become deeper, they can make the face look noticeably older, becoming a difficult concern for many people to deal with. In reality, nasolabial folds are one of the major signs of aging that can significantly change the overall impression of the face. In the consultation room, patients frequently describe their concerns by saying, “I look tired because of my smile lines even when I am not smiling,” “It feels as if my cheeks have collapsed downward,” “The corners of my mouth drooped and it makes me look sad,” or “My smile lines make me look much older than I actually am.”
Do nasolabial folds develop simply because of aging?
Nasolabial folds that are not caused by a structural problem but develop secondarily over time are not merely an issue of the skin surface. They are the result of multiple factors being reflected together, including descent of the anterior cheek fat layer, decreased skin elasticity, weakening of the retaining ligaments, movement from facial expressions, and skeletal changes caused by bone resorption. When the nasolabial folds become deeper, the marionette lines below them often descend together, and the jawline may also become less defined. For this reason, when the central face and lower face sag at the same time, simply filling the nasolabial folds often has clear limitations.
What if fillers or fat grafting alone are not enough?
Many people first think of fillers when they begin to notice nasolabial folds. In fact, if the main cause of the nasolabial folds is volume deficiency, fillers or fat grafting may be helpful. When the anterior cheek has become hollow and the nasolabial area has sunken in, creating a shadow, simply supplementing the deficient volume can make the overall impression appear softer.
However, if the cause of the nasolabial folds is not an “indented line” but rather the “boundary of cheek tissue that has sagged downward,” a different treatment approach is needed. If the cheek tissue has descended and created a fold between the side of the nose and the corners of the mouth, injecting a large amount of filler only into the nasolabial area can instead make the face look swollen or make the area around the mouth look heavy. This is why, in the treatment of nasolabial folds, the cause must be distinguished first. The treatment direction changes depending on whether the concern is simple volume deficiency, decreased skin elasticity, or sagging of the midface and perioral tissues.
What are the main causes that make nasolabial folds deepen?
The first cause of deepening nasolabial folds is a change in midface volume and fat layers. When we are young, the fat layers located under the cheekbones and in the anterior cheek area sit relatively high and support the central part of the face. However, as time passes, the deep fat layers may shrink or move downward, and the superficial fat may be redistributed around the areas where folds form. As a result, the nasolabial folds can become more clearly visible.
The second cause is a decrease in the elasticity of the skin and dermal layer. When the skin becomes thinner and the supporting strength of collagen and elastin weakens, crease marks can remain for a longer time even with the same facial expression movements. UV exposure, smoking, excessive dieting, lack of sleep, chronic stress, and alcohol consumption can all accelerate the decline in skin elasticity.
The third cause is weakening of the retaining ligaments and the SMAS layer. When the deep supporting structures of the face become weak, the cheek and perioral tissues move downward. However, the nasolabial fold area is anatomically fixed relatively firmly, so the tissue that has descended becomes caught along that boundary, making the wrinkle appear deeper. In this case, the nasolabial fold is not simply a line, but is closer to a structural fold created by sagging tissue.
The fourth cause is skeletal change and changes in the structures around the nose. Because nasolabial folds begin from the side of the nose, the sense of connection between the nasal tip, columella, nasal bridge, and glabella also affects the overall facial impression. Excessive rhinoplasty, or contracture caused by a previous rhinoplasty, may weaken the surrounding skin and affect the nasolabial folds.
What kind of approach is needed when nasolabial folds and marionette lines appear together?
When nasolabial folds and marionette lines have deepened together, Girin Plastic Surgery does not simply look only at the wrinkles beside the nose. Instead, we evaluate the sagging of the entire mouth area together. Marionette lines are wrinkles that descend below the corners of the mouth, and they are closely related to sagging of the lower face. When these lines appear together, the face may look tired and sad, or the impression of looking older than one’s actual age may become stronger.
At this point, the important thing is not to pull the skin strongly without considering the underlying cause. It is necessary to evaluate where the sagging tissue has descended from and in which direction, how much the anterior cheek and perioral tissues have shifted, how much the jawline has collapsed, and how much skin elasticity still remains. When tissue sagging is distinct, a surgical lifting method such as a mini facelift may be considered in order to reposition the tissues around the mouth and the lower cheek area.
How can a mini facelift help improve deep nasolabial folds?
The purpose of Girin Plastic Surgery’s mini facelift is not to excessively pull the entire face. It focuses on refining sagging tissue within the necessary range and reducing the heaviness around the mouth and lower face. In particular, when nasolabial folds and marionette lines appear together, the sagging cheek tissue and the tissues around the mouth can be repositioned in an appropriate direction, making it possible to expect a more natural improvement.
However, not every nasolabial fold requires a mini facelift. If skin elasticity is relatively good and volume deficiency is the main cause, fillers, fat grafting, skin boosters, or laser lifting may be more suitable. On the other hand, if the cheek tissue has descended and the nasolabial folds and marionette lines have deepened together, surgical lifting may be a more fundamental option than a simple injection-based procedure.
An actual Girin Plastic Surgery patient case in which deep nasolabial folds and a contracted nose were improved together
The patient introduced in this case was a woman in her 50s who had undergone rhinoplasty with an L-shaped silicone implant approximately 30 years ago, and who also had a history of receiving nose filler treatment 11 years ago. As time passed, she felt that the external appearance of her nose had become shorter, and she also said that the length extending from the glabella to the nasal bridge appeared short. However, she did not want a nose that looked overly slim from the front or obviously “done.” The most important thing to her was a “completely natural-looking look.”
At the same time, she was deeply concerned that her nasolabial folds and marionette sagging had become severe, making the area around her mouth look heavy and aged. She wanted the maximum possible improvement through a mini facelift within a realistic and feasible range. On diagnosis, the nasolabial folds and marionette lines were not simply skin wrinkles, but rather a condition in which the descent of the tissues around the mouth and cheeks was clearly evident.
Although nasolabial folds are wrinkles around the mouth, they are also connected to the balance of the central face. In particular, because this patient had a history of old implants and fillers, including an L-shaped silicone implant placed a long time ago, it was necessary to carefully examine the internal condition. When nasal contracture from previous rhinoplasty is added to aging in this way, the nose can become shorter, and if the central part of the face appears congested or heavy, the aging impression of the entire midface can feel even stronger.
The surgical plan at Girin Plastic Surgery was to perform a mini facelift to correct the nasolabial folds and marionette lines, while also planning the nose in a direction that would refine the bulbous feeling of the nasal tip, lengthen the nasal tip, and naturally lower the columella. During the actual surgery, a large amount of capsule and foreign material had formed around the silicone implant, so these were removed. After that, the support structure of the nose was reorganized. After surgery, the nasolabial folds and marionette lines were evaluated as having been corrected by approximately 90%, and the overall look was refined in line with the patient’s desired change: not excessive, but natural.
What was the important specialist judgment in this case?
The most important point in this case was that we did not look only at the nasolabial folds and simply fill or pull only the nasolabial area. From the patient’s perspective, deep nasolabial folds may begin as a concern such as, “I just want this line to disappear.” However, in reality, they may be a problem connected to the anterior cheeks, the mouth area, the jawline, and even the central axis around the nose.
In particular, when marionette lines are present together, a younger-looking impression cannot be completed simply by softening only the wrinkles beside the nose. The sagging tissue below the mouth corners, the collapse of the jawline, and the heaviness in the lower cheek area must be improved together for the face to look lighter overall. In this patient’s case as well, while correcting the nasolabial folds and marionette lines through a mini facelift, it was also necessary to reconstruct the central facial balance that had become disrupted due to the old rhinoplasty.
Is completely removing nasolabial folds a good result?
From the standpoint of the specialists at Girin Plastic Surgery, the thing we were most cautious about was the misconception that “nasolabial folds must be completely eliminated.” Anatomically, nasolabial folds are a natural boundary that exists to some degree in everyone. If one tries to remove them excessively, the central face may look puffy, the smile may look unnatural, or the area around the mouth may look awkward and heavy.
Good improvement of nasolabial folds is not about completely erasing the lines. Rather, it is about reducing the sagging and heaviness of the entire face while restoring a natural three-dimensional contour. In particular, in patients with a history of old implants, nose fillers, or revision surgery, the internal tissue condition may be different from that of a typical first-time surgery patient. If one tries to adjust only the external appearance when capsule formation or a foreign-body reaction is present, unpredictable results may occur. Therefore, a plan for safe removal and reconstruction must be prepared together.
What should be taken care of after surgery?
After a mini facelift, the tissues need time to settle stably into their new positions during the early recovery period. Therefore, for about 2 days after surgery, it is recommended to avoid turning the head widely from side to side or lifting heavy objects. This is because unnecessary tension around the face and neck can affect the recovery process.
If nasal reconstruction was performed together, recovery of the nasal tip support structure and internal tissues is also important. External impact, excessive facial expressions, and pressure around the nose should be avoided, and swelling and tissue stabilization should be monitored through regular follow-up visits. During the early recovery period, swelling, tightness, or changes that may temporarily appear asymmetric can occur. Therefore, rather than judging the result only by the short-term appearance, it is necessary to observe the recovery process according to the medical team’s guidance.
Are deep nasolabial folds caused only by age?
Deep nasolabial folds do not necessarily occur only because a person is older. Even at a relatively young age, nasolabial folds may become prominent if midface volume is congenitally insufficient, if the area under the cheekbones is hollow, or if the anterior cheeks lose volume due to rapid weight loss. On the other hand, even in older patients, if skin thickness and fat distribution are stable, the nasolabial folds may appear relatively less deep.
Therefore, treatment for nasolabial folds should not be decided based on age alone. The depth of the wrinkles, the direction of cheek sagging, skin elasticity, the condition of the mouth area and jawline, previous procedure and surgery history, and the degree of change the patient wants must all be evaluated comprehensively.
What kind of consultation is needed if deep nasolabial folds are a concern?
At Girin Plastic Surgery, consultation for nasolabial fold surgery is not about “removing the line,” but about “how to naturally restore the sagging structure.” In some cases, fillers alone may be sufficient. In other cases, laser treatment or thread lifting may be appropriate. In other cases, a surgical method such as a mini facelift may be necessary.
Ultimately, a good result is not a face that has changed excessively, but a face that feels “not awkward” when the patient looks in the mirror. This is because excessive correction can damage the patient’s own unique atmosphere. In addition, surgical methods such as minimal-incision techniques, as well as stem cell procedures, can help support faster recovery and further shorten the time needed to return to daily life.
FAQ Organized by a Girin Plastic Surgery Mini Facelift Specialist
Q. What kind of surgery is a mini facelift?
A: Unlike a traditional facelift, which widely dissects and pulls the entire face, a mini facelift is a surgery that repositions tissue within the necessary range, focusing on the areas where sagging is prominent. It is often considered especially when the concerns are nasolabial folds, marionette lines, sagging around the mouth, sagging of the lower cheeks, and a blurred jawline. Rather than simply pulling only the skin, it is important to analyze the direction and depth of the sagging tissue and lift it naturally.
Q. If the nasolabial folds are deep, can they improve with a mini facelift?
A: If the cause of the nasolabial folds is simple volume deficiency, fillers or fat grafting may be more appropriate. However, if the cheek tissue has descended downward, causing the nasolabial folds to deepen, and sagging around the mouth or marionette lines are also visible, improvement can be expected with a mini facelift. In this case, the nasolabial folds are closer to structural folds created by sagging cheek tissue rather than an “indented line,” so an approach that repositions the sagging tissue is necessary.
Q. Can a mini facelift completely remove nasolabial folds?
A: Completely eliminating nasolabial folds is not necessarily a good result. Nasolabial folds are a natural facial boundary that exists to some degree in everyone. If one tries to remove them excessively, the central face may look swollen, the smile may look awkward, or the area around the mouth may appear heavy. A good result is not about forcefully erasing the wrinkles, but about refining the sagging tissue so that the face looks lighter and more natural.
Q. Can marionette lines also improve with a mini facelift?
A: Marionette lines are sagging lines that descend below the corners of the mouth and are closely related to sagging of the lower face. When nasolabial folds and marionette lines have deepened together, the sagging of the perioral and lower cheek tissues must be evaluated together. A mini facelift may help reduce the heaviness of the sagging tissues around the mouth and jawline, and depending on the patient’s condition, some patients may feel even greater satisfaction with the improvement of the marionette lines than with the nasolabial folds.
Q. What is the difference between a mini facelift and thread lifting?
A: Thread lifting is a procedure that temporarily lifts the skin and tissue using threads without an incision. The recovery burden is relatively low, but when sagging is severe or relaxation of the skin and SMAS layer is pronounced, there may be limitations in longevity and correction power. In contrast, a mini facelift directly refines and repositions sagging tissue through incisions, so it may offer a more fundamental improvement when there is structural sagging such as sagging around the mouth or marionette lines.
Q. How are a mini facelift and a facelift different?
A: A facelift is a surgery that improves moderate to severe sagging by dissecting a wide area from the face to the neck. In contrast, a mini facelift corrects key areas such as the lower cheeks, mouth area, and jawline within a relatively limited range. If sagging is very severe, or if neck wrinkles and under-chin sagging are also pronounced, a general facelift may be more appropriate. Conversely, if the main concerns are nasolabial folds, marionette lines, and sagging around the mouth, and the patient wants natural improvement rather than an excessive change, a mini facelift may be suitable.
Q. From what age can a mini facelift be considered?
A: A mini facelift is not a surgery that is determined by age alone. Even in the late 30s or 40s, it can be considered if cheek sagging, sagging around the mouth, and marionette lines are clearly visible. Even for patients in their 50s or older, a mini facelift alone may be sufficient depending on skin elasticity and the degree of sagging. The important criteria are not the actual age, but how much the facial tissues have descended, how much skin elasticity remains, and how much change the patient wants.
Q. Can a mini facelift look natural?
A: Yes, it can. However, for a natural result, the method should not be to pull strongly without consideration. The direction of facial sagging must be accurately analyzed, and only the necessary amount of tissue should be repositioned. In particular, the areas around the mouth and nasolabial folds move frequently with facial expressions, so if they are pulled excessively, the smile may look awkward. A natural mini facelift should aim not for a “face that looks pulled up,” but for a “face that looks less tired and saggy, and more refined.”
Q. How long is the recovery period after a mini facelift?
A: There are individual differences, but initial swelling and tightness usually stabilize relatively significantly within 1 to 2 weeks after surgery. The third day after surgery is usually the period when swelling is at its highest. Bruising gradually moves downward and fades. For about 2 days after surgery, it is recommended to avoid turning the head widely from side to side or lifting heavy objects.
Q. Is the pain severe after a mini facelift?
A: Pain varies by individual, but most patients describe it more often as tightness, heaviness, or a feeling of pressure rather than severe pain. Since this is a surgery involving incision and tissue repositioning, there may be discomfort in the early stage. However, in most cases, it remains within a controllable range if the patient takes the prescribed medication and follows the recovery instructions. If the pain suddenly becomes severe or one side swells significantly more than the other, the hospital must be contacted.
Q. Are mini facelift scars very visible?
A: In a mini facelift, the incision location and suturing method are important. In general, the incision line is designed using areas that are less noticeable, such as in front of the ear or around the hairline. In the early stage, redness or firmness may be felt, but in many cases, it fades over time. However, because there may be differences depending on scar tendency, skin thickness, and recovery management, it is advisable to sufficiently check the incision location and scar management plan before surgery. Girin Plastic Surgery offers stem cell treatment and hyperbaric oxygen therapy to help support faster recovery.
Q. How long does the effect of a mini facelift last?
A: Because a mini facelift is a surgery that repositions sagging tissue, its maintenance period tends to be longer than that of simple procedures. However, aging continues even after surgery. Therefore, the effect does not remain permanently stopped in time, and the degree of maintenance may vary depending on skin elasticity, lifestyle habits, weight changes, UV exposure, and smoking or drinking status. The important point is how aging is managed after turning back the clock through surgery.
Q. Can I have a mini facelift even if I have had fillers before?
A: In many cases, it is possible. However, it is necessary to check where and how much of the existing filler remains, and whether there is any foreign-body reaction or lumping. If excessive filler has been placed in the nasolabial fold area, or if old filler remains inside the tissue, it can affect the surgical plan. If necessary, the existing filler may be dissolved, or the correction direction may be adjusted while checking the tissue condition during surgery.
Q. Can I return to daily life immediately after a mini facelift?
A: Light indoor activities are possible relatively quickly, but if the patient needs to meet many people or attend an important schedule, it is better to allow time for the swelling and bruising to subside to some degree. Immediately after surgery, the face may feel tight and look swollen, so excessive outings or exercise should be avoided. Especially in the early stage, the patient should avoid turning the head widely or lifting heavy objects.
Q. When can I exercise after a mini facelift?
A: Light walking may be possible relatively early depending on the recovery condition, but only within a maximum of 2 hours. However, exercise that causes heavy sweating, strength training, saunas, and vigorous movements should be avoided in the early recovery period. This is because increased blood pressure or pressure on the face may worsen swelling and bruising. The timing for resuming exercise differs depending on the surgical range and recovery status, so it is safest to decide after a follow-up evaluation.
Q. Will my face look too pulled after a mini facelift?
A: If the surgery is performed by pulling excessively, the result may look artificial. However, if only the necessary tissues are repositioned while considering the anatomical structure of the face and the direction of facial expressions, natural improvement is possible. The important thing is not “pulling a lot,” but “pulling in the correct direction.” In particular, because the areas around the nasolabial folds and mouth move frequently with facial expressions, natural movement must also be considered.
Q. Who is suitable for a mini facelift?
A: It can be considered in cases where fillers or thread lifting had short-lasting results or low satisfaction, and also in cases where skin sagging is difficult to resolve with simple procedures. Conversely, if the main concerns are skin texture, fine wrinkles, pigmentation, or pores rather than sagging, other treatments may need to be prioritized.
Girin Plastic Surgery places the greatest importance on the consultation process. We perform mini facelift surgery for various types of partial sagging and guide each patient only toward an improvement direction that is suitable for them. Check a treatment plan that fits your current condition based on the balance of the entire face. Results and recovery may vary depending on each individual’s condition.
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