[Nasolabial Filler Side Effects] Why Nasolabial Fold Fillers Are Often Not Recommended

Filler Migration Risks & Better Treatment Options

The nasolabial folds (smile lines) are one of the most mobile areas of the face.We use this area constantly when talking, eating, and smiling—which is why these lines appear early and deepen easily with age.

Because the folds look sunken, many people choose filler injections to smooth them out. However, nasolabial filler side effects are far more common than most patients expect.

The Main Cause of Nasolabial Filler Side Effects: Filler Migration

Due to continuous muscle movement, filler placed in the nasolabial folds can gradually shift upward over time.

When this happens:

• The upper cheek looks bulky

• The fold itself can look even deeper

• The face appears unbalanced or unnatural

This is why many patients return to clinics asking to dissolve their nasolabial fillers.

Common Questions About Nasolabial Filler Side Effects

“My filler moved upward and made my smile lines worse. Why?”

Because facial muscles around the mouth constantly move, soft fillers can be pushed out of place, creating uneven contours.

“Why does my filler still feel hard years later, even after dissolving injections?”

In some cases, the body forms a thin protective layer around the filler, making it harder to dissolve completely.This happens more often with low-quality fillers.

“Can I just lift the area with threads instead of filler?”

Thread lifting alone can pull tissue upward, but if done incorrectly, it may make the cheekbones look wider.Nasolabial folds require careful technique and the right type of thread.

Why Hyaluronic Acid Fillers Increase Nasolabial Filler Side Effects

Hyaluronic acid fillers have a soft, gel-like texture.Softer materials naturally move more when facial muscles are active.

While technique and injection depth matter, product choice plays a major role in preventing migration.

Better Options to Reduce Nasolabial Filler Side Effects

1. Ellansé or Dermal-Based Fillers (MegaFill)

These fillers are firmer and act more like a stable support structure rather than soft gel.

Benefits:

• Less movement

• More natural contour

• Longer-lasting results

• Lower risk of migration

For nasolabial folds specifically, these fillers tend to look more natural over time.

👉🏻If dissolvability is your top priority, HA fillers may still be preferred—but with higher migration risk.

2. Jember Thread Lifting

Jember threads provide solid volume support, not just pulling.

Think of it this way:

• Filler = cement

• Jember thread = structural frame

They help:

• Add subtle volume

• Prevent filler from shifting

• Improve stability in high-movement areas

3. Silhouette Fix Threads

These threads lift tissue in a direction that avoids cheekbone enlargement.

Advantages:

• Improves nasolabial folds without widening the face

• Enhances skin texture and glow

• Promotes collagen production for anti-aging benefits

Final Thoughts on Nasolabial Filler Side Effects

For nasolabial folds, one treatment alone is rarely ideal.Combining small amounts of filler, supportive threads, and proper lifting techniques creates:

• More natural results

• Fewer side effects

• Better long-term outcomes

This is why many experts prefer non-surgical combination treatments over aggressive filler use