Guide

How does Restylane treat deep wrinkles and folds?

Deep folds, such as the lines from the nose to the mouth corners, are often caused less by skin creasing and more by volume loss and tissue descent around them. Restylane is a family of hyaluronic acid (HA) gels with different firmness and flexibility. Placed strategically, it can restore support and soften the shadow of a fold.

Restylane products are known for gel ranges designed for dynamic areas, which is why they are often chosen where natural movement matters, such as around the mouth.

Who is Restylane for deep folds suitable for?

Adults with moderate to deep nasolabial folds
Those with marionette lines pulling the mouth corners down
People whose folds are mainly due to volume loss rather than heavy sagging
Patients wanting a visible, reversible change with short downtime

When another approach may be better

If folds are driven mainly by sagging, adding filler alone can look heavy. In these cases, lifting with ultrasound or threads may come first. Filler is generally avoided during pregnancy or breastfeeding, with active infection near the site, or in people with a history of severe allergy to filler components. Recent dental work and upcoming flights are also discussed.

What to expect at your appointment

Assessment: the doctor examines the fold at rest and in expression, and looks at the cheeks and jawline, since support often needs to be restored elsewhere.
Design: injection points and depth are planned, and a needle or blunt cannula is chosen.
Numbing: topical anesthetic is applied; many Restylane products also contain lidocaine.
Injection and shaping: the gel is placed and gently molded, and you can review the result in a mirror.

Recovery and aftercare

Swelling, tenderness and small bruises are common for a few days. Avoid pressing or massaging the area unless told to, and skip saunas, alcohol and intense exercise for 24–48 hours. Sleeping with your head slightly raised can help. Read aftercare after Botox and filler and how long swelling lasts after filler for more.

How long does Restylane last in folds?

Restylane in the nasolabial area commonly lasts about 6–18 months. Longevity depends on the specific product, the amount used, your metabolism and how mobile the area is. Many people choose a smaller top-up rather than waiting for complete breakdown. Results vary by individual.

What combinations work with Restylane?

Re:berry's philosophy is to design combinations rather than chase one line. Common pairings include:

Midface support: subtle cheek volume can reduce fold depth more naturally than filling the fold alone.
Lifting: Ultherapy Prime or Thermage FLX to tighten tissue, usually staged a few weeks from filler.
Skin quality: boosters such as Rejuran Healer for crepey skin around the fold.

What are the alternatives?

Alternatives include Juvederm filler for deep folds, which uses a different HA technology; Ultherapy Prime for deep folds for a lifting-led approach; and Re:berry's signature Revolle program. Our Juvederm vs Restylane comparison sets out the differences.

Why do deep folds form in the first place?

With age, the fat pads of the midface thin and slide downward, bone in the cheek and jaw gradually recedes, and skin loses collagen and elasticity. The fold itself is often where descending tissue meets a fixed point. This is why treating only the line can look flat or heavy, while restoring support above it tends to look more natural. Expression habits, sun exposure, smoking and rapid weight change can make folds appear earlier.

How should you prepare for filler?

Avoid alcohol and, if your doctor agrees, blood-thinning supplements for a few days before treatment.
Do not book filler right before an important event; allow about two weeks for swelling to settle.
Mention any previous filler, threads or surgery in the area so placement can be planned safely.

Risks to be aware of

Common effects include swelling, bruising, tenderness and lumpiness that settles with time. Less common risks include infection, delayed nodules and asymmetry. A rare but serious risk with any filler is vascular occlusion, where filler blocks a blood vessel; signs include severe pain, blanching or dusky skin, and require urgent attention. HA filler can be dissolved, which is one reason it is widely used.

Booking in Hongdae

Pricing depends on the product and number of syringes, and is confirmed in writing at consultation. See our Booking page to request an appointment.

Will Restylane in my folds look natural?

Natural results depend on correct diagnosis, product choice and amount. Often the best approach is restoring support in the cheeks rather than filling the fold heavily. The doctor will discuss how much change suits your face and may recommend a conservative first session.

Can I fly after Restylane filler?

Many people fly within a day or two, but swelling can feel more noticeable in the cabin. Planning a few days in Seoul after treatment allows time for swelling to settle and for a review if anything concerns you. Discuss your flight date at consultation.

What if I do not like my Restylane result?

Because Restylane is hyaluronic acid, it can be dissolved with an enzyme called hyaluronidase if needed. Minor asymmetry or lumps are often reviewed after swelling settles at about two weeks. Contact the clinic to arrange a check before deciding on any correction.