Paranasal Augmentation Reviews: An Effective Way to Fill Nasolabial Folds and a Sunken Midface

What is Paranasal Augmentation for Relieving Nasolabial Fold Concerns?

Many people worry that their deep nasolabial folds or unusually flat midface make them look cold or stern. In such cases, the procedure commonly known as 'noble surgery' can be considered, which is medically referred to as Paranasal augmentation.

This is a surgery that fills in volume by inserting an implant or autologous tissue into the depressed area next to the nostrils, where the nasolabial folds begin. Through this, you can expect a more three-dimensional facial contour and achieve the visual effect of making the mouth appear relatively less protruded.

Recommended Candidates for Paranasal Augmentation

Cases with high satisfaction after paranasal augmentation are those accompanied by structural depression rather than just deep wrinkles. The representative types are as follows:

• Underdeveloped midface: Cases where the bone structure around the nose is congenitally depressed, making the face look flat.
• Relatively protruded mouth: Cases where the maxilla (upper jaw) is normal, but the alar base next to the nose is sunken, making the mouth look more protruded. This can be compensated by filling in the volume.
• Lantern jaw (developed mandible): Cases where the lower jaw is developed, making the upper jaw appear relatively pushed back and the midface sunken. It helps to balance the face.

Differences in Surgical Materials: Silicone Implant vs. Autologous Bone Graft

The material used during surgery varies depending on the patient's condition and preferences.

1. Silicone Implant

As the most commonly used material, it has the advantage of a relatively simple surgical process and is easy to precisely sculpt into the desired shape. However, if the implant is not accurately fixed, it may shift position, or very rarely, cause bone erosion or tooth root irritation due to long-term pressure. Therefore, it is important to have the surgery performed by an experienced specialist.

2. Autologous Bone Graft

Because it uses the patient's own bone tissue, it has the advantage of almost no foreign body reaction and is maintained permanently after engraftment. It is often performed without the burden of additional harvesting by utilizing the excised bone when combined with facial contouring surgeries (such as cheekbone reduction or genioplasty).

Precautions for a Successful Paranasal Augmentation

Just because your nasolabial folds are deep does not mean paranasal augmentation is the only answer. If skin sagging is the cause, lifting may be appropriate, and if it is a simple lack of volume, fillers or fat grafting can be alternatives.

The core of paranasal augmentation is selecting the size and position of the implant. Excessive volume can make the philtrum look long or cause the movement of the upper lip to become unnatural. Therefore, it is crucial to establish a plan that fits your facial structure through sufficient consultation with medical staff who have abundant clinical experience.