What Are Smile Lines (Nasolabial Folds)?

Smile lines, also known as nasolabial folds, are the deep creases that run from the sides of the nose to the corners of the mouth. While they are a natural part of facial anatomy, deep or prominent smile lines can make the face appear older, tired, or saggy.

Key features of smile lines include:

• Visible folds or creases when smiling or at rest
• A shadowed appearance that adds depth to the midface
• Skin laxity or volume loss in the cheeks
• An aged or less youthful look even at a younger age

Smile lines may deepen over time due to aging, volume loss, gravity, and facial movement.



What Is Smile Line Reduction Surgery?

Smile Line Reduction Surgery is a facial rejuvenation procedure designed to reduce the depth of nasolabial folds and restore a smoother, more youthful midface appearance.

At Seoul Cheil Plastic Surgery, the approach is customized based on each patient’s needs and anatomy. Techniques may include:

• Fat grafting: Harvesting the patient’s own fat and injecting it into the folds for natural volume restoration
• Nasolabial fold excision or lift: Surgical tightening and repositioning of skin and tissue
• SMAS lifting: Repositioning the deeper facial structures to reduce fold depth
• Cheek lift or midface lift: Elevating the cheeks to soften the lines
• Surgery time: Approximately 1 to 2 hours under local or general anesthesia, depending on the technique

Why Combine With Other Procedures?

Smile line reduction is often part of a holistic facial rejuvenation plan. For the best results, it is commonly combined with:

• Facelift or mini-lift for overall skin tightening
• Cheek fat repositioning to address midface sagging
• Forehead or neck lift for full facial harmony
• Fat grafting in additional areas for volume balance

This approach ensures a natural, balanced look rather than an isolated correction.

Key Characteristics of Prominent Smile Lines

• Deep folds from nose to mouth corners
• Sagging skin around the cheeks and mouth
• Aged, tired facial expression
• Shadows and depressions in the midface
• Cheeks appear deflated or sunken

Can Fillers or Botox Fix Smile Lines?

Fillers like hyaluronic acid can temporarily soften smile lines, but they:

• May require frequent maintenance (every 6–12 months)
• Can cause lumpiness or unnatural contours
• Don’t address the underlying structural sagging

For a more long-lasting and natural solution, smile line reduction surgery is recommended for moderate to severe folds.

Smile Line Reduction at Seoul Cheil Plastic Surgery

Seoul Cheil Plastic Surgery is a trusted destination for facial contouring and anti-aging treatments, offering:

• Over 20 years of experience in facial rejuvenation
• Tailored surgical plans based on 3D facial analysis
• Natural results that restore youth without looking “overdone”
• Comprehensive care, including post-op swelling management and recovery guidance
• Multilingual staff to assist international patients

If you’re tired of deep smile lines making you look older or tired, Smile Line Reduction Surgery at Seoul Cheil Plastic Surgery can help you regain a youthful, refreshed appearance.

Book your consultation today and take the first step toward a smoother, brighter look!