Subcision Using a Spinal Needle Cannula and a Thread for Prominent Nasolabial Fold Correction

Abstract

Deepening of the nasolabial crease is an esthetically unpleasing aging phenomenon occurring in the midface. Various treatment modalities have been introduced to improve the appearance of prominent nasolabial folds, all of which have pros and cons. Currently, a minimally invasive technique using synthetic dermal fillers is most commonly used. A simple and easy subcision procedure using a wire scalpel has also been used and reported to be effective for prominent nasolabial fold correction, with minimal complications. As an alternative to the wire scalpel, we used a 20-gauge metal type spinal needle cannula (Hakko Co.) and 4-0 Vicryl suture (Ethicon Inc.) for subcision of nasolabial folds. This technique is less expensive than the use of a wire scalpel and easily available when needed. Therefore, on the basis of favorable results, our modified subcision technique may be considered effective for prominent nasolabial fold correction.

Evaluation of Subcision for the Correction of the Prominent Nasolabial Folds

“…Several modified subcision techniques were introduced for depressed scars and wrinkles and also for prominent NLFs [3, 12–15]. In our study, 13 (81.25%) patients showed moderate improvement at 1st month and 13 (81.25%) patients had at least mild improvement at 6th month.…”

“…To achieve the best results, it may be important to induce the formation of adequate amounts of scar tissue in the subcision area [3]. Although this is usually not complete with a single procedure, we can repeat this procedure at regular intervals to achieve more favorable and persistent results [3].…”

“…Although this is usually not complete with a single procedure, we can repeat this procedure at regular intervals to achieve more favorable and persistent results [3]. Moreover, it might be better to perform this study in a split-face design and do subcision only for right or left NLF to achieve a comparison of its efficacy.…”

“…It is generally imperceptible in children, in part, due to their skin elasticity [1]. The NLF often becomes apparent around the age of 25 years and then becomes more obvious with aging as a combination of thinning and relaxation of the skin [3, 4]; also other factors can be effective on this process such as ultraviolet radiation [1]. A prominent nasolabial crease is a cosmetic problem.…”

Blunt cannula subcision is more effective than Nokor needle subcision for acne scars treatment

“…1 Blunt cannula has been proposed as a potentially proper alternative for Nokor needles, 1 and others have implied that cannula may be more efficient in treating acne scars; even laser cannula is employed for treatment of cellulite. 1,6,7 As comparative studies reporting the effectiveness criteria of atrophic rolling scars treatment using Nokor and blunt cannula are rare, this study aims to assess that which tool has better outcomes and lesser side effects during 3-month monitoring postprocedure.…”