2026-09-03
Recommended Nasolabial Fold Treatment: Thread Lift vs. Filler – Which is More Natural?
Explore the best treatments for nasolabial folds: thread lifts and fillers. Learn which option is more natural based on your specific concerns, such as skin sagging or volume loss, and understand when a combination approach might be ideal for a balanced, youthful appearance.

※ This article is intended to provide medical information.
It is not subject to review under Article 56, Paragraph 2 and Article 57 of the Medical Act,
and is not an advertisement unrelated to the content of the review.
Recommended Nasolabial Fold Treatment: Thread Lift vs. Filler – Which is More Natural?
Hello,
I am Dr. Park Jeong-geun,
Director of Faceplus Plastic Surgery Clinic.

Nasolabial folds can make you look tired
or appear deeper even when you're not smiling.
Because of this, many people consider various procedures
like thread lifts or fillers.

However, even if it's the same nasolabial fold,
the causes are not always the same,
so the approach may differ.
Especially depending on whether skin sagging is the main issue
or if volume loss has a greater impact,
there can be differences in the criteria for choosing between a thread lift and filler.
Table of Contents | ||
1. It can vary depending on the cause of nasolabial folds 2. When to consider a thread lift 3. When to consider fillers 4. Thread lifts and fillers can also be performed together |
1. It can vary depending on the cause of nasolabial folds
Nasolabial folds often appear
with changes in the surrounding tissue rather than just the wrinkle itself.

In particular, as cheek sagging descends,
the nasolabial area can appear deeper,
and due to volume loss,
it can sometimes feel like a shadow.

Because of this, even for the same nasolabial fold,
the treatment approach may differ.
This is because there can be a difference in approach
between cases requiring simple volume replenishment
and cases requiring overall lifting.
2. When to consider a thread lift
Thread lifts are often explained as a concept of pulling
sagging tissue upwards.


They are particularly considered when there is accompanying
cheek sagging or changes in the jawline.
Sometimes, the procedure focuses on checking mid-face sagging
rather than just the nasolabial fold itself.


However, depending on skin thickness and the degree of sagging,
there may be differences in the type of threads used
and the design direction.
Also, initially, some people may feel a pulling sensation or foreign body sensation,
which often subsides over time.
3. When to consider fillers
Fillers are often considered for the purpose of replenishing volume
in sunken areas.

They are particularly discussed when the nasolabial area appears significantly hollow
or when there is a significant impact from volume loss.

While some people report experiencing relatively quick changes,
excessive treatment can potentially lead to an unnatural appearance.
Therefore, rather than simply filling deep areas,
the process of considering overall facial balance together
is often emphasized as important.
4. Thread lifts and fillers can also be performed together
While nasolabial folds can sometimes be due to simple volume loss,
they often appear with accompanying cheek sagging.

Because of this,
thread lifts and fillers are sometimes considered together.
Thread lifts can be used to reposition sagging tissue,
and fillers can be applied to replenish volume
in sunken areas.
Especially when nasolabial folds appear deep
and are accompanied by mid-face sagging or volume loss,
a combined approach is sometimes used.

However, the treatment direction can vary depending on skin condition, face shape,
and the desired degree of change.
Therefore, rather than simply determining which procedure is better,
it is important to assess the current facial balance together

to decide on the appropriate approach.
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Nasolabial Fold Treatment Recommendation / Thread Lift / Filler Comparison
Frequently Asked Questions
For nasolabial fold treatment, should I choose a thread lift or filler?
The choice depends on the cause of your nasolabial folds. If skin sagging is the primary cause, a thread lift may be considered. If volume loss is significant, filler might be more appropriate. It's important to assess your individual facial balance to determine the most suitable procedure.
In what cases is a thread lift effective for improving nasolabial folds?
A thread lift is based on the concept of pulling sagging tissue upwards. It can be considered for improving nasolabial folds when accompanied by cheek sagging or changes in the jawline. The procedure often involves addressing mid-face sagging as well.
When are nasolabial fold fillers recommended?
Fillers are intended to replenish volume in sunken areas. They are recommended when the nasolabial area appears hollow or when there's a significant impact from volume loss. Excessive treatment can lead to an unnatural look, so overall facial balance must be considered.
Can thread lifts and fillers be performed together?
Yes, they can be performed together. When nasolabial folds are deep and accompanied by mid-face sagging and volume loss, a combined approach—using a thread lift to reposition sagging tissue and filler to replenish sunken areas—can be effective.
How can I achieve natural results after nasolabial fold treatment?
To achieve natural results, it's crucial to consider overall facial balance rather than just filling deep areas. Additionally, the appropriate treatment direction should be determined based on your skin condition, face shape, and desired degree of change.
What sensations might I experience initially after a thread lift?
Initially, you might feel a pulling sensation or a foreign body sensation. However, in most cases, these sensations tend to gradually subside over time.