2026-06-04
Improving Deep Nasolabial Folds and Midface Volume with Autologous Bone Graft Paranasal Augmentation
Learn about Paranasal Augmentation, a procedure that improves deep nasolabial folds and a sunken midface. We detail how utilizing an autologous bone graft instead of artificial implants reduces foreign body reactions, how combining it with facial contouring creates natural dimensionality, and what to consider before surgery.

Deep Nasolabial Folds: Is a Lack of Paranasal 'Volume' the Cause?
As we age, or due to congenital skeletal structure, the areas on both sides of the nose can appear sunken, making the nasolabial folds look relatively deeper and giving the face a tired impression. This depression in the midface (the central part of the face) can also accentuate a protruding mouth.
Recently, many people are considering Paranasal Augmentation to resolve these concerns. This is because it helps restore natural volume by filling in the sunken areas, making the overall impression much softer and more youthful.

What is Paranasal Augmentation?
Paranasal augmentation is a surgery that enhances facial dimensionality by inserting implants or autologous tissue into the sunken areas next to the nose. When midface volume is restored, it creates a visual effect of alleviating nasolabial folds, and you can expect a more sophisticated impression as a flat face transforms into a more three-dimensional one.

The case above shows the overall facial balance adjusted by combining 3-type facial contouring surgery and paranasal augmentation at 345 Plastic Surgery. Beyond simply smoothing out wrinkles, it is characterized by achieving harmonious results by filling the volume of the midface, which is the central axis of the face.
Characteristics and Advantages of Autologous Bone Graft Paranasal Augmentation
The materials used in paranasal augmentation are divided into artificial implants (silicone, Gore-Tex, etc.) and autologous tissues. Among them, an autologous bone graft is a suitable method for those who expect a more stable prognosis.
- Minimized Foreign Body Reaction: Since your own bone tissue is used, the risk of inflammation or rejection that can occur with artificial implants is reduced.
- Excellent Retention: Once the autologous bone successfully engrafts in the area, it is advantageous for maintaining volume for a long time without an artificial feel.
- Natural Results: Because it is your own tissue, the texture is not foreign, and the movement is natural.

Synergy Between Facial Contouring and Paranasal Augmentation
The bone used for the autologous bone graft is typically your own bone excised during a long-curve square jaw reduction or zygoma reduction, which is then precisely refined. Therefore, it becomes a highly efficient option for those planning facial contouring surgery.

- Efficient Surgery: Because the bone removed during contouring surgery is recycled, the procedure can be performed without an additional harvest site.
- Three-Dimensional Perfection: By reducing the size of the face through square jaw or cheekbone reduction while simultaneously filling in sunken areas, a smaller and more three-dimensional 'baby face' is achieved.

We Recommend Paranasal Augmentation for These Individuals
It is more effective for those whose impression appears dark due to skeletal structural issues, rather than those who are simply concerned about wrinkles.
- Those whose midface next to the nose looks deeply sunken when viewed from the side
- Those whose overall facial balance is uneven due to a protruding mouth
- Those with a tendency toward a prominent chin (prognathism) who want to soften their impression
- Those who have an aversion to the insertion of artificial implants

Considerations for Safe Surgery
Since plastic surgery involving bones requires highly meticulous techniques, you must verify the medical team's proficiency and the clinic's safety systems.
- Experienced Surgeon: Ensure that a specialist with extensive clinical experience is directly responsible for everything from consultation to surgery and aftercare.
- University Hospital-Level Safety System: Safety equipment capable of responding swiftly to emergency situations must be in place.
- Resident Anesthesiologist: Dedicated personnel who can monitor the patient's condition in real-time during surgery are essential.

At 345 Plastic Surgery, our medical team with over 27 years of experience performs personalized surgeries based on precise osteotomy techniques. Rather than excessive correction, we focus on finding a natural sense of volume while preserving your original charm.
