How Facelifts Can Help With Smile Lines

Smile or laugh lines, also known as nasolabial folds, are the creases that extend from the sides of the nose to the corners of the mouth. These lines are a natural aspect of facial anatomy, becoming more pronounced with age due to various factors. 

Causes of Smile Lines

As we age, it is normal to experience several changes, including the facial structure that contribute to the deepening of smile lines:​

• Loss of skin elasticity: The skin’s ability to stretch and return to its original shape diminishes over time, leading to loose skin and the formation of wrinkles.​
  
• Volume loss: Reduction in facial fat and bone density can cause the cheeks to appear sunken, accentuating the nasolabial folds.​
  
• Repeated facial expressions: Frequent movements such as smiling, laughing, and speaking can create lines into the skin, making them more permanent over time.
  
• Sun exposure: Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage collagen and elastin fibers, essential for skin firmness and elasticity, thereby enhancing the appearance of wrinkles.

Is There a Permanent Fix for Smile Lines?

While there is no truly permanent fix for smile lines, several treatments may provide long-lasting results. 

• Surgical options like facelifts may help reduce the appearance of smile lines by lifting and tightening the skin, offering results that can last for many years. 

• Non-surgical treatments, such as cosmetic injectables, can temporarily smooth out the lines by plumping the skin or relaxing the muscles, with results typically lasting anywhere from 6 to 12months. 

However, over time, the skin will naturally continue to age, and no treatment can completely stop the ageing process.

How Facelifts Address Smile Lines?

Facelifts can help address smile lines, also known as nasolabial folds, by tightening and lifting the skin around the lower face. During the procedure, excess skin is removed, and the underlying tissues are repositioned to create a smoother appearance. This helps minimise the depth of smile lines, as the skin is restructured to eliminate loose skin that accentuates these folds. Always consult a certified surgeon to determine suitability to any surgical procedure. 

How Much Does it Cost to Get Rid of Smile Lines?

​Addressing smile lines, also known as nasolabial folds, can be achieved through both surgical and non-surgical treatments in Australia, with costs varying based on the chosen method and other factors.​

Surgical Option: Facelift Surgery

Facelift procedures in Sydney range from $16,000 to over $35,000, for surgical fee alone, depending on the surgeon’s expertise and procedure complexity. Plus, other expenses including, hospital fees, anaesthesia and more.  ​

Non-Surgical Options: Dermal Fillers and Other Treatments

Dermal Fillers: Prices range from $700 to $1,000 per syringe, depending on the type of filler and the amount used. ​

Anti-Wrinkle Injections: Typically cost between $15 to $30 per unit, depending on type of product and amount used

Considerations

Additional costs may include consultation fees, anesthesia, facility charges, and post-operative care. Prices can vary between clinics and regions, so obtaining personalised quotes is advisable. It is important to remember that GP referral and BDD screening are essential steps before proceeding with any cosmetic procedures. 

If you want to learn more about cosmetic options for smile lines, reach out to Ariste Plastic Surgery. Our Specialist Plastic Surgeon, Dr Jack Zoumaras, can help provide clarity on the most appropriate treatment plan tailored to individual needs and expectations. Schedule a consultation today. 

Disclaimer: At Artiste Plastic Surgery, our Plastic Surgeons led by Dr Jack Zoumaras have been trained to the highest possible degree. All surgery has risks and it is always advised to get a second opinion. Risks are very real and we cannot guarantee any result. Results are illustrated as a guide only. All risks are managed and any need for revision surgery or complications (1-5%) can be managed by our specialist plastic surgeons.

Any statements on how you will feel is based on Level V Evidence:

Level V:  How you will feel after plastic surgery varies between individuals, depending on psychological and physical factors. Our internal research is based on how patients in our practice feel after surgery.

The blogs are not a substitute for a medical consultation and do not form as part of the doctor to patient relationship.