How Do You Fix A Deep Labiomental Fold?

Q: Dr. Eppley, Hi! I would simply like to know what would be best in fixing my deep labiomental crease (and thus reducing my chin protrusion). Im leaning towards an implant but Im worried if the implant shifts, because my main goal is to get a less noticeable chin, but I don’t want to undergo surgery so im thinking fixing the deep fold will be enough. However, I was also thinking of a fat graft to the area but from my research I’ve found that to be more expensive and unpredictable than an implant. So what do you think would be best? I looked into fillers too but I really want permanent results as this is a pretty big insecurity of mine. 

A: Thank you for your inquiry and sending your pictures. Essentially what you are asking is which is better….a chin reduction (not an implant as that makes the chin bigger not smaller) which treats the actual source of your aesthetic concern or a labiomental fold augmentation to try and camouflage the protruding chin. (see attached illustrations)

If the goal is effectiveness then the chin reduction approach provides a much better result long term. If the goal is the lowest cost and degree of invasiveness then fat grafting to the labiomental fold would be the choice. Unlike chin reduction you can actually test the labiomental fold augmentation by injectable fillers and get an immediate answer to that approach that is non-surgical and completely reversible.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana