For deepening nasolabial folds and loss of elasticity around the mouth in your 40s, which is more effective: fillers or thread lifting?
2026.11.06 10:49
Hello~ I turned forty-five this year, and lately, I've been really self-conscious about the nasolabial folds next to my nose. The lines used to be only slightly visible when I smiled, but now they extend all the way down to my cheekbones even when I have a neutral expression, so it makes me upset every time I look in the mirror. Maybe it's because the skin around my mouth is sagging along with my age, but my whole face looks lifeless. At a reunion with old classmates last week, I even heard that I look older than my actual age.
The most stressful part is applying makeup. The cushion foundation settles right into my nasolabial folds, so even if I reapply it a few times, the lines widen up by the afternoon. Itโs funny yet sad these days that I can't take photos without a photo editing app.
I've tried Gua Sha and massage for a few months but it didn't work, so now I'm looking into procedures. I'm debating which is more natural: filling in the nasolabial folds with fillers or lifting them with threads like Mint threads or monofilament. I'm curious which method would be more effective for someone in their mid-40s with decent skin elasticity. I'm worried that fillers might cause hollowing in the cheeks or make my smile look unnatural, and I've heard that thread lifting can leave a foreign body sensation after the procedure; I'm also curious how long that feeling lasts.
Also, how long do bruising or swelling usually last? Since I work, Iโd prefer it to be light enough to be covered with makeup. I would be really grateful if those of you who have experience could let me know how long the effects last and how often I need to get treatments! The photo is one I took myself of my nasolabial folds. Iโm posting this because Iโd like to hear your opinions before getting a consultation.
Comments1
Popular in Botox / Filler Q&A
Ranked by comments, likes, and saves from the last 24 hours
Ranked by comments, likes, and saves from the last 7 days
Ranked by comments, likes, and saves from the last 30 days