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title: Nasolabial Folds - Treatment Options Melbourne | Me Clinic
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description: # Nasolabial Folds - Treatment Options at Me Clinic Melbourne

## Quick Summary

**What causes nasolabial folds:**
- Natural collagen and elastin breakdown with age
- Loss of facial fat volume, partic...
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# Nasolabial Folds - Treatment Options Melbourne | Me Clinic

## Me Clinic Nasolabial Folds - Treatment Options at Me Clinic Melbourne

## Quick Summary

**What causes nasolabial folds:**
- Natural collagen and elastin breakdown with age
- Loss of facial fat volume, particularly in the mid-face
- Repetitive facial expressions and muscle movements
- Genetic predisposition and facial structure

**Treatment options available:**
- Non-surgical: Dermal fillers, thread lifts, laser resurfacing, radiofrequency treatments, chemical peels
- Surgical: Facelift (rhytidectomy), mid-face lift

**Expected results:**
- Dermal fillers provide immediate softening of deep folds with natural-looking contour restoration
- Results appear immediately for fillers, gradually over 2-3 months for energy-based treatments
- Surgical options deliver long-lasting improvement of moderate to severe folds

**Cost range:**
- Non-surgical: $650-$3,500 per treatment
- Surgical: $12,000-$25,000
- *Prices based on Me Clinic's transparent pricing policy*

**Next steps:**
- Book a free consultation at Me Clinic Melbourne
- Discuss a treatment plan with experienced practitioners
- Review before/after gallery of similar cases
- Understand recovery timeline and maintenance requirements

---

## Understanding nasolabial folds

With over 35 years of experience, Me Clinic is Melbourne's trusted partner in cosmetic medicine, offering comprehensive, evidence-based care for nasolabial folds through both surgical and non-surgical pathways. Our team of Plastic Surgeons and Cosmetic Doctors is committed to giving patients the best possible assistance, guided by our Responsible Cosmetic Medicine™ philosophy.

**What are nasolabial folds?**

Nasolabial folds are the lines that run from the sides of your nose down to the corners of your mouth. Often called "smile lines" or "laugh lines," these creases are a natural part of facial anatomy that tend to become more pronounced with age. While everyone has them to some degree, they can deepen over time into permanent creases that remain visible even at rest—and for many people, that's when they start to affect confidence and self-perception.

A common misconception is that nasolabial folds are caused primarily by smiling or facial expressions. Muscle movement does contribute, but the main underlying factor is volume loss in the mid-face combined with the skin changes that come with ageing. The folds aren't simply excess skin—they're the visible result of facial structures gradually losing the support that once held them in place.

**What causes nasolabial folds?**

1. **Natural ageing**
   - Collagen and elastin production decreases significantly from your mid-20s onwards, reducing skin elasticity and firmness
   - Fat compartments in the cheeks (malar fat pads) descend and deflate, removing structural support from the mid-face
   - Facial bones gradually resorb over time, particularly around the upper jaw, creating less underlying foundation
   - Skin becomes thinner and less resilient in response to repeated folding over many years

2. **Genetic factors**
   - Some facial structures are naturally more predisposed to pronounced nasolabial folds
   - Hereditary patterns influence how and where facial volume is lost over time
   - Skin type and thickness are often inherited
   - Natural facial expression patterns and muscle movement tendencies can also run in families

3. **Lifestyle factors**
   - Sun exposure accelerates collagen breakdown and contributes to premature skin ageing
   - Smoking restricts blood flow to the skin and damages elastic fibres over time
   - Significant weight fluctuations can cause skin to stretch and lose its natural elasticity
   - Side sleeping may contribute to asymmetric fold development
   - Dehydration affects skin plumpness and overall resilience

**Who experiences nasolabial folds?**

Nasolabial folds typically become noticeable in your 30s and 40s, though some people notice them earlier depending on genetics and lifestyle. Both men and women develop these lines, though they often become more pronounced in women after menopause due to hormonal changes that affect skin quality and thickness.

Severity varies considerably between individuals. Some people develop only subtle lines while others experience deeper creases. People with fuller facial structures tend to notice folds later than those with naturally slender faces.

**Why it matters**

Beyond the aesthetic concern, pronounced nasolabial folds are often one of the first signs of facial ageing that people notice about themselves. They can create a tired or older appearance even when you feel energetic and positive. Many of our patients say their nasolabial folds make them look older than they feel, and that this affects their confidence in personal and professional situations.

Understanding what causes these folds is essential for choosing the right treatment. The most effective treatments address the underlying cause—volume loss and structural change—rather than simply attempting to erase the line itself. That principle sits at the heart of everything we do at Me Clinic.

---

## Treatment options comparison

### Non-surgical treatments

**1. Injectable treatments**

*Dermal fillers*

Dermal fillers are the gold-standard treatment for nasolabial folds, offering immediate and genuinely natural-looking improvement. At Me Clinic, our practitioners use premium hyaluronic acid fillers specifically designed for mid-face and nasolabial fold correction, always with a conservative, considered approach.

- **How it works:** Fillers restore lost volume beneath the fold and in the mid-face (cheeks), providing structural support that naturally softens the appearance of the line. Rather than simply filling the fold like spackling a crack, our practitioners address the underlying volume loss that causes the fold in the first place—a distinction that makes a real difference to your outcome.

- **Best for:** Mild to moderate nasolabial folds, prevention of fold deepening, and immediate results ahead of special occasions

- **Procedure time:** 30-45 minutes including numbing and assessment

- **Downtime:** Minor swelling and possible bruising for 1-3 days; most patients return to normal activities immediately

- **Results appear:** Immediate visible improvement, with final results settling after 2 weeks once any swelling subsides

- **Results last:** 9-18 months depending on the product used, individual metabolism, and treatment area

- **Cost range:** $650-$1,200 per syringe (most patients need 1-2 syringes)

- **Pros:** Immediate results, natural-looking when performed by experienced hands, minimal downtime, reversible with hyaluronidase if needed, and adjustable over time

- **Cons:** Temporary results requiring maintenance treatments, potential for bruising, requires a skilled injector for natural-looking outcomes, rare risk of vascular complications

*Anti-wrinkle injections (Botox)*

While not a primary treatment for nasolabial folds, anti-wrinkle injections can play a supporting role in certain cases.

- **How it works:** Strategic placement in the muscles around the nose and upper lip can help prevent the deepening of folds caused by repetitive expressions. They are sometimes used alongside fillers for a more comprehensive result.

- **Best for:** Dynamic lines that worsen with facial expressions, as part of a prevention strategy, or to address upper lip lines contributing to fold appearance

- **Procedure time:** 10-15 minutes

- **Downtime:** None to minimal

- **Results appear:** 3-7 days, with full effect at 2 weeks

- **Results last:** 3-4 months

- **Cost range:** $350-$550 per area

- **Pros:** Quick procedure, no downtime, preventative benefits

- **Cons:** Not effective for deep static folds, temporary, and limited in its role when used alone for nasolabial folds

**2. Thread lift treatments**

Thread lifts sit between fillers and surgical facelifts, using dissolvable sutures with tiny cones to gently lift and support facial tissues.

- **How it works:** Medical-grade threads are inserted beneath the skin to physically lift sagging tissues and stimulate the body's own collagen production. The threads gradually dissolve over 6-12 months, while the collagen they stimulate continues to provide support long after.

- **Best for:** Mild to moderate jowling and sagging contributing to nasolabial folds, patients who aren't yet ready for surgery, and those looking to combine lifting with filler treatments

- **Treatment sessions:** Single procedure, with results continuing to improve over the following months

- **Downtime:** 3-5 days of mild swelling and tenderness, with temporary dimpling possible

- **Results appear:** An immediate lifting effect, with progressive improvement as collagen forms

- **Results last:** 18-24 months

- **Cost range:** $2,500-$4,500 depending on thread type and number used

- **Pros:** Less invasive than surgery, stimulates natural collagen production, and can be combined with other treatments

- **Cons:** Results are less dramatic than a surgical facelift, threads may be palpable initially, and there is a rare possibility of thread visibility or migration

**3. Energy-based treatments**

*Laser skin resurfacing*

Fractional laser treatments can improve skin quality around nasolabial folds, though they work best when combined with treatments that also address underlying volume loss.

- **Types:** Fraxel, CO2 laser, erbium laser—selected based on your skin type and specific concerns

- **How it works:** Controlled micro-injuries to the skin stimulate collagen production and cell turnover, improving skin texture, thickness, and tone over time

- **Best for:** Fine lines around folds, skin texture concerns, sun damage, and as part of a combined approach with volume restoration

- **Treatment sessions:** 1-3 sessions depending on laser type and desired results

- **Downtime:** 3-7 days for ablative lasers, 1-2 days for non-ablative options

- **Results appear:** Gradual improvement over 3-6 months as collagen remodels

- **Results last:** 1-2 years with appropriate sun protection and a good skincare routine

- **Cost range:** $800-$2,500 per session

- **Pros:** Improves overall skin quality, addresses multiple concerns simultaneously, and stimulates natural collagen production

- **Cons:** Does not address volume loss or structural causes of folds, requires some downtime, multiple sessions may be needed, and there is a risk of hyperpigmentation in darker skin types

*Radiofrequency and ultrasound treatments*

- **Examples:** Thermage, Ultherapy, Profound RF

- **How it works:** Controlled heat energy is delivered to the deeper layers of the skin, stimulating collagen and elastin production and creating a gradual skin tightening effect

- **Best for:** Mild skin laxity, improving overall skin quality, preventative care, and patients who prefer gradual improvements

- **Treatment sessions:** Usually 1-2 treatments

- **Downtime:** None to minimal; possible redness for a few hours

- **Results appear:** Gradual improvement over 2-6 months

- **Results last:** 1-2 years

- **Cost range:** $1,800-$4,500 per treatment

- **Pros:** No downtime, gradual natural-looking results, and stimulates collagen without surgery

- **Cons:** Improvements are subtle, does not address significant volume loss, can be uncomfortable during treatment, and results vary between individuals

**4. Skin resurfacing treatments**

*Chemical peels*

Medium-depth chemical peels can improve skin quality and fine lines around nasolabial folds when used as part of a considered treatment plan.

- **Depth options:** Light peels (superficial), medium peels (TCA), deep peels (rarely used for this area)

- **Best for:** Fine lines, skin texture concerns, sun damage, age spots, and as a complement to volumising treatments

- **Downtime:** Light peels: 1-2 days; medium peels: 5-7 days of peeling

- **Cost range:** $200-$600 per session

- **Sessions needed:** 3-6 light peels or 1-2 medium peels

*Microneedling*

- **How it works:** Fine needles create controlled micro-injuries to stimulate natural collagen and elastin production

- **Best for:** Skin texture concerns, fine lines, and mild improvement in skin thickness

- **Sessions needed:** 3-6 treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart

- **Downtime:** 1-3 days of redness

- **Cost range:** $350-$600 per session

---

### Surgical treatments

**Facelift (rhytidectomy)**

For moderate to severe nasolabial folds, surgery provides the most comprehensive and long-lasting results by addressing the root cause: descended facial tissues and diminished structural support. Our FRACS-qualified plastic surgeons bring decades of experience and a commitment to natural-looking outcomes to every procedure.

A facelift lifts and repositions the deeper facial tissues (SMAS layer), removes excess skin, and restores youthful facial contours. Modern facelifts can be specifically tailored to target the mid-face region where nasolabial fold concerns originate.

- **Best for:** Moderate to severe folds, significant jowling and facial sagging, patients seeking long-term correction, and those pursuing comprehensive facial rejuvenation

- **Procedure time:** 3-5 hours depending on extent

- **Anaesthesia:** General anaesthesia or deep sedation

- **Hospital stay:** Day surgery with overnight monitoring, or an overnight stay depending on technique

- **Recovery time:**
  - 10-14 days until most swelling and bruising resolves
  - 2-3 weeks before returning to work (non-strenuous)
  - 4-6 weeks before resuming exercise
  - 3-6 months for final results to fully settle

- **Results appear:** Initial improvement visible after 2 weeks; final results at 6-12 months as swelling fully resolves and tissues settle

- **Results last:** 7-15 years depending on skin quality, lifestyle factors, and the natural ageing process

- **Cost range:** $15,000-$25,000 depending on technique and extent

- **Pros:**
  - The most dramatic and comprehensive improvement available
  - Long-lasting results
  - Addresses underlying structural issues rather than surface concerns alone
  - Natural-looking when performed by an experienced, qualified surgeon
  - Can be combined with other procedures (eyelid surgery, neck lift)

- **Cons:**
  - Significant recovery time that needs to be planned for carefully
  - Higher cost than non-surgical options
  - Surgical risks including anaesthesia, infection, and scarring
  - Requires time off work and advance planning
  - Results are long-lasting and cannot be reversed

**Mid-face lift**

A more targeted surgical approach specifically addressing the cheek area and nasolabial folds, suited to patients whose concerns are primarily in the mid-face.

A mid-face lift repositions the malar fat pads (cheeks) to restore mid-face volume and support, directly addressing the underlying cause of nasolabial folds.

- **Best for:** Patients with primarily mid-face descent and nasolabial fold concerns, without significant lower face or neck sagging

- **Procedure time:** 2-3 hours

- **Recovery:** Similar to a facelift, though often with less extensive bruising

- **Results last:** 7-12 years

- **Cost range:** $12,000-$18,000

---

## Choosing the right treatment

Choosing the right path forward is a personal decision, and one we'll always support with honest guidance. Your wellbeing comes first.

**Consider non-surgical treatments if:**

- You have mild to moderate nasolabial folds
- You prefer minimal to no downtime
- You'd like to explore treatments gradually and adjust results over time
- You're not yet ready for surgery, or are unable to take extended time off
- Budget considerations make surgical options challenging at this time
- You value the reassurance of reversible or adjustable options
- You prefer subtle improvements that enhance rather than change your appearance
- Your skin quality is generally good

**Consider surgical treatment if:**

- You have severe or very deep nasolabial folds
- You've explored fillers extensively with diminishing returns
- You have significant mid-face descent or jowling
- You're seeking long-lasting results
- You can comfortably accommodate 2-3 weeks of recovery
- You're ready to invest in a comprehensive, lasting solution
- You hold realistic expectations about surgical outcomes
- You're in good overall health for surgery

**Combination approach**

Many patients achieve their most satisfying results through a combined treatment approach. Common combinations our team recommends include:

- **Dermal fillers + laser resurfacing:** Addresses both volume loss and skin quality for genuinely comprehensive improvement
- **Facelift + fillers:** Surgical lifting provides structural correction while strategic filler placement adds volume where it's needed most
- **Thread lift + fillers:** A mid-level correction using threads for lifting and fillers for volume, a popular choice for those not yet ready for surgery
- **Anti-wrinkle injections + fillers:** Prevents dynamic wrinkling while restoring volume for a balanced, refreshed result

Your Me Clinic surgeon or cosmetic physician will recommend the most appropriate approach during your consultation, based on your individual anatomy, goals, and circumstances.

---

## What to expect at Me Clinic

**1. Initial consultation (free)**

Your journey begins with a comprehensive, no-obligation consultation where we take the time to understand your concerns and goals.

- Thorough facial assessment examining your fold depth, skin quality, facial structure, and volume distribution
- Honest discussion of your aesthetic goals and lifestyle considerations
- Complete medical history review to ensure your safety and suitability
- Clear explanation of all suitable treatment options
- Review of before/after galleries showing results from similar cases
- Realistic expectation setting about what each treatment can achieve
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees and no pressure to proceed

**2. Treatment planning**

Once you feel ready to proceed, we develop a personalised treatment plan built around you:

- An approach designed specifically for your facial anatomy and goals
- A clear timeline including the number of sessions if multiple treatments are needed
- Detailed pre-treatment instructions to optimise results and minimise risks
- A complete cost breakdown with payment options discussed openly
- Plenty of time to ask questions and address any concerns

**3. The Me Clinic difference**

*Responsible Cosmetic Medicine™*

Our philosophy places your safety, satisfaction, and natural-looking results at the centre of everything we do:

- Evidence-based treatments with proven safety and efficacy
- Ethical patient selection—we will always be honest with you if a treatment isn't right for your situation
- Natural-looking results that enhance rather than alter your appearance
- A conservative approach first, with the option to build on results if desired
- Comprehensive aftercare and follow-up included as standard with every treatment

*Experienced practitioners*

- FRACS-qualified plastic surgeons with extensive facial surgery experience
- Specialist cosmetic physicians trained in facial aesthetics
- Registered nurses with advanced injection training
- Over 25,000 surgical procedures performed across our history
- More than 60,000 non-surgical treatments delivered with a proven safety record
- Continuous professional development to keep us at the forefront of our field

*Transparent pricing*

- Published price lists available so you're never left guessing
- No hidden fees or surprise costs at any stage
- Payment plans available for surgical procedures
- Medicare rebates explained clearly where applicable (though most cosmetic treatments are not covered)
- Free consultations to discuss costs before any commitment is made

---

## Frequently asked questions

**How much does nasolabial fold treatment cost in Melbourne?**

Treatment costs vary based on your chosen approach and individual circumstances:

- Dermal fillers: $650-$1,200 per syringe (1-2 syringes typically needed)
- Thread lifts: $2,500-$4,500
- Laser treatments: $800-$2,500 per session
- Radiofrequency/ultrasound: $1,800-$4,500 per treatment
- Facelift: $15,000-$25,000
- Mid-face lift: $12,000-$18,000

At Me Clinic, we provide detailed, transparent pricing during your free consultation—no hidden fees, no surprises. We'll explain exactly what's included in your quoted price and discuss all available payment options.

**How long do nasolabial fold treatment results last?**

Results duration varies by treatment type:

- Dermal fillers: 9-18 months (requiring periodic maintenance top-ups)
- Thread lifts: 18-24 months
- Laser and energy-based treatments: 1-2 years
- Facelift: 7-15 years (though natural ageing continues)
- Mid-face lift: 7-12 years

Individual results depend on your age, skin quality, lifestyle (sun exposure, smoking), metabolism, and how your body responds to treatment. At Me Clinic, we'll always give you realistic expectations based on genuine clinical experience with patients similar to you.

**Is there any downtime with nasolabial fold treatments?**

Downtime varies significantly between treatments:

- Dermal fillers: Minimal—possible minor swelling and bruising for 1-3 days
- Thread lifts: 3-5 days of mild swelling and tenderness
- Laser resurfacing: 3-7 days depending on intensity
- Radiofrequency/ultrasound: None to a few hours of redness
- Chemical peels: 1-7 days depending on depth
- Facelift: 10-14 days until presentable; 2-3 weeks before returning to work

Your practitioner will provide specific downtime expectations and practical tips for minimising visible side effects during your consultation.

**Will my results look natural?**

Natural-looking results are central to Me Clinic's Responsible Cosmetic Medicine™ approach. We are committed to outcomes that enhance your appearance rather than alter it, and we specifically avoid the overdone look that most patients want to avoid.

For nasolabial folds specifically:

- We address the underlying volume loss rather than overfilling the fold itself
- Conservative amounts are used initially, with the option to add more if desired
- Every treatment is tailored to your unique facial structure
- We work to preserve your natural facial expressions and the features that make you, you

Many of our patients find that people notice they look refreshed or well-rested, but can't quite put their finger on what's changed. That's exactly the outcome we're working towards.

**Am I too young or too old for nasolabial fold treatment?**

There is no universal age limit for treatment. We have supported patients from their late 20s (early prevention) through to their 80s, always with a personalised approach.

Key factors we assess include:

- The severity of your folds and their underlying causes
- Overall skin quality and general health
- Medical conditions that might affect treatment safety or suitability
- Your expectations and how realistic they are for your situation
- Lifestyle factors affecting healing and long-term maintenance

During your consultation, we evaluate all of these factors carefully, because your treatment plan should be as individual as you are.

**Does Medicare cover nasolabial fold treatments?**

Most cosmetic treatments for nasolabial folds are not covered by Medicare or private health insurance, as they are considered aesthetic rather than medically necessary procedures.

In rare cases where there is a functional component—such as folds affecting eating or speaking—partial Medicare rebates may apply for certain surgical procedures. However, this is uncommon for typical nasolabial fold presentations.

We'll clarify Medicare eligibility during your consultation and discuss all available payment plan options for procedures not covered by insurance.

**What are the risks of nasolabial fold treatments?**

All medical treatments carry some degree of risk, and we discuss these openly with every patient. Common risks vary by treatment type:

*Injectable treatments (dermal fillers):*
- Bruising and swelling (common, temporary)
- Asymmetry that may require adjustment
- Lumps or bumps (usually resolved with gentle massage)
- Rare vascular complications (blocked blood vessels)
- Infection (very rare with proper technique)
- Allergic reaction (extremely rare with hyaluronic acid fillers)

*Energy-based treatments:*
- Temporary redness and swelling
- Rare burns or blistering
- Hyperpigmentation (particularly in darker skin types)
- Temporary numbness

*Surgical treatments:*
- Anaesthesia risks
- Infection
- Scarring (usually well-hidden within natural contours)
- Nerve injury affecting facial movement (rare with an experienced surgeon)
- Asymmetry
- Haematoma requiring drainage

Your Me Clinic practitioner will discuss the specific risks relevant to your chosen treatment and health profile during your consultation. Our team uses advanced techniques and evidence-based protocols to minimise risk at every stage.

**Can I see before and after photos?**

Yes. During your consultation, we'll share an extensive gallery of before and after photos from patients with concerns similar to yours. This helps set realistic expectations and gives you a genuine sense of the results achievable through our treatment protocols.

We take patient privacy seriously, so photos are shared within the privacy of our consultation rooms rather than published online without explicit consent.

**How do I prepare for nasolabial fold treatment?**

Preparation varies by treatment type. General guidance includes:

*For injectable treatments:*
- Avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements (aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, vitamin E) for 1 week before treatment, if medically safe to do so
- Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before your appointment
- Arrive with clean skin and no makeup
- Consider scheduling ahead of important events with a 2-week buffer for best results

*For laser and energy treatments:*
- Avoid sun exposure for 2-4 weeks prior
- Stop retinoids and exfoliating treatments 3-5 days before
- Discontinue fake tan products 1 week before

*For surgical procedures:*
- Stop smoking at least 4 weeks before and after surgery—this is important for healing and outcomes
- Arrange for someone to drive you home and stay with you overnight
- Fill any prescriptions in advance
- Prepare a comfortable recovery space at home
- Follow your specific fasting instructions carefully

Your Me Clinic team will provide detailed, personalised pre-treatment instructions to help optimise your results and minimise any risk of complications.

**When will I see results from nasolabial fold treatment?**

Results timing varies depending on your chosen treatment:

- **Dermal fillers:** Immediate visible improvement, with final results settling after 2 weeks once swelling subsides
- **Thread lifts:** Immediate lifting effect, with progressive improvement over 2-3 months as collagen forms
- **Laser treatments:** Gradual improvement over 3-6 months as collagen remodels
- **Radiofrequency/ultrasound:** Very gradual improvement over 2-6 months
- **Chemical peels:** Progressive improvement following the peeling phase (1-2 weeks)
- **Facelift:** Initial results visible at 2-4 weeks; final results at 6-12 months as all swelling resolves and tissues settle

Treatments that work gradually are worth the wait—the results tend to look more natural and last longer.

**Can nasolabial fold treatments be combined with other facial treatments?**

Yes, and combination treatments often achieve the most balanced results. Common combinations our practitioners recommend include:

- Nasolabial fold fillers combined with cheek volume restoration
- Fillers paired with anti-wrinkle injections for comprehensive facial rejuvenation
- Surgical facelift combined with eyelid surgery and neck lift
- Non-surgical treatments supported by a quality skincare routine

Your Me Clinic practitioner will recommend an approach that addresses all of your facial ageing concerns together, for results that are balanced and natural.

**What happens if I don't like my filler results?**

One of the most reassuring aspects of hyaluronic acid dermal fillers is that they are reversible. If you're unhappy with your results for any reason, an enzyme called hyaluronidase can dissolve the filler within 24-48 hours, restoring your baseline appearance.

At Me Clinic, we take a conservative approach to minimise this possibility from the outset:
- Starting with modest amounts and building up only if desired
- A thorough consultation to ensure we're fully aligned on your goals
- Using only premium products with predictable, consistent results
- Experienced injectors with a deep understanding of facial anatomy

Most patients are very happy with their outcomes—but knowing there is a safety net provides genuine peace of mind.

**How often will I need maintenance treatments?**

Maintenance requirements depend on your chosen treatment:

- **Dermal fillers:** Top-ups every 9-18 months
- **Anti-wrinkle injections:** Every 3-4 months
- **Thread lifts:** Repeat treatment every 18-24 months if desired
- **Laser/energy treatments:** Annual or biannual maintenance sessions
- **Surgical facelifts:** No scheduled maintenance, though many patients choose to complement their results with non-surgical treatments after 7-10 years

At Me Clinic, we take a long-term view of your care, creating treatment plans that fit your lifestyle and budget, spacing treatments thoughtfully for sustained results without over-treatment.

**Will treatment hurt?**

Pain tolerance varies between individuals, but most nasolabial fold treatments are very well-tolerated. Your comfort matters to us throughout every stage of care.

- **Dermal fillers:** Topical numbing cream is applied before treatment, and many fillers contain lidocaine for additional comfort. Most patients describe mild pressure or a slight pinching sensation.
- **Thread lifts:** Local anaesthetic is used; some patients notice a gentle pulling sensation during insertion
- **Laser treatments:** Varies from a warm sensation to a light snapping feeling; numbing options are available
- **Radiofrequency/ultrasound:** Can be mildly uncomfortable but is well-tolerated; intensity can be adjusted to your comfort level
- **Surgical procedures:** Performed under general anaesthesia or deep sedation—you'll feel nothing during the procedure, and post-operative discomfort is carefully managed with appropriate medication

We'll always discuss pain management options with you during your consultation.

---

## Real patient results

At Me Clinic, we've cared for thousands of patients concerned about nasolabial folds over our 35+ years of practice. While individual results vary based on age, skin quality, fold severity, and chosen treatment, our before and after gallery reflects the genuine range of outcomes achievable through our evidence-based treatment protocols.

Our patients consistently share that they experience:
- Natural-looking improvement that doesn't look "done"
- A restored sense of confidence in their appearance
- Looking refreshed and rested rather than drastically different
- Friends and colleagues noticing they look well—without being able to identify exactly what has changed

During your consultation, your practitioner will show you cases most similar to yours—the same age range, fold severity, and treatment approach—so that your expectations are grounded in real results rather than aspirational marketing imagery.

---

## Book your free consultation

Ready to explore your nasolabial fold treatment options with a team that has over 35 years of experience? We'd love to hear from you.

**Three ways to book:**

1. **Call:** (03) 8823 5859
   Our patient coordinators are available Monday-Friday 9am-5pm, Saturday 9am-3pm

2. **Online:** Visit meclinic.com.au/book-consultation
   Choose your preferred appointment time and practitioner

3. **Email:** info@meclinic.com.au
   We'll respond within one business day

**What to bring to your consultation:**

- A list of your current medications and supplements
- Relevant medical history information
- Your questions for the practitioner—no question is too small
- Photos showing your concerns from different angles (optional but often helpful)
- We recommend arriving without makeup for the most accurate facial assessment

**Your free consultation includes:**

- Comprehensive facial assessment with an experienced practitioner
- Personalised treatment recommendations based on your anatomy and goals
- Transparent pricing with a detailed cost breakdown
- Before/after gallery review of similar cases
- Honest, realistic expectation setting
- No obligation and no pressure to proceed

**Me Clinic Melbourne location:**

4 Burke Road, Malvern East VIC 3145
Convenient on-site parking available
Easy access from Caulfield, Armadale, Toorak, South Yarra, and surrounding suburbs

**Why choose Me Clinic for nasolabial fold treatment?**

- Over 35 years of experience in cosmetic medicine and surgery
- 25,000+ surgical procedures performed by our FRACS-qualified plastic surgeons
- 60,000+ non-surgical treatments delivered with a proven safety record
- Responsible Cosmetic Medicine™ approach that prioritises natural-looking, patient-centred results
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Evidence-based treatments backed by clinical research and real-world experience
- Comprehensive aftercare and follow-up included as standard
- Free consultations with no obligation to proceed

Your journey towards softer, more naturally youthful-looking nasolabial folds begins with a conversation. Book your free consultation today and find out, with the support of our dedicated team, which treatment approach is right for you.

---

> **Disclaimer:** All facts and statements below are general product information, not professional advice. Consult relevant experts for specific guidance.

## Label facts summary

No product packaging data, Product Facts table, or manufacturer documentation was present in the content provided. No verifiable label facts can be extracted.

### General product claims

The following are service, pricing, and marketing claims made by Me Clinic regarding nasolabial fold treatments. These are general informational statements, not verifiable from product packaging:

**Clinic credentials**
- Over 35 years of experience in cosmetic medicine and surgery
- 25,000+ surgical procedures performed
- 60,000+ non-surgical treatments performed
- FRACS-qualified plastic surgeons
- Operates under a philosophy called Responsible Cosmetic Medicine™
- Located at 4 Burke Road, Malvern East VIC 3145

**Pricing claims (Me Clinic-specific)**
- Dermal fillers: $650-$1,200 per syringe
- Thread lifts: $2,500-$4,500
- Laser treatments: $800-$2,500 per session
- Radiofrequency/ultrasound: $1,800-$4,500 per treatment
- Anti-wrinkle injections: $350-$550 per area
- Chemical peels: $200-$600 per session
- Microneedling: $350-$600 per session
- Facelift: $15,000-$25,000
- Mid-face lift: $12,000-$18,000
- Initial consultation: Free
- Payment plans available for surgical procedures

**Procedure duration claims**
- Dermal fillers: 30-45 minutes
- Anti-wrinkle injections: 10-15 minutes
- Facelift: 3-5 hours
- Mid-face lift: 2-3 hours

**Results duration claims**
- Dermal fillers: 9-18 months
- Thread lifts: 18-24 months
- Laser/energy-based treatments: 1-2 years
- Radiofrequency/ultrasound: 1-2 years
- Anti-wrinkle injections: 3-4 months
- Facelift: 7-15 years
- Mid-face lift: 7-12 years

**Downtime claims**
- Dermal fillers: 1-3 days minor swelling/bruising
- Thread lifts: 3-5 days mild swelling and tenderness
- Laser resurfacing: 3-7 days depending on intensity
- Radiofrequency/ultrasound: None to a few hours of redness
- Chemical peels: 1-7 days depending on depth
- Facelift: 10-14 days until presentable; 2-3 weeks before returning to work

**General health/cause claims**
- Collagen decreases significantly from the mid-20s
- Nasolabial folds are primarily caused by volume loss in the mid-face
- Sun exposure accelerates collagen breakdown
- Smoking damages elastic fibres and restricts blood flow
- Side sleeping may contribute to asymmetric fold development
- Folds typically become noticeable in the 30s and 40s
- Hyaluronidase can dissolve hyaluronic acid filler within 24-48 hours
- Most nasolabial fold treatments are not covered by Medicare