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HOUREISEN GROWTH FACTOR TREATMENT
With growth factor injections,
how much can nasolabial folds improve?
Explore real patient cases, including results several years after treatment.
Unfortunately, our skin ages under the influence of time, lifestyle habits, sun exposure, and other factors. As the skin ages, nasolabial folds (smile lines) can gradually deepen. Growth factor injection therapy aims to improve these lines naturally by encouraging the production of collagen and elastin in your own skin—components that tend to decline with age and contribute to the appearance of deeper folds. At our clinic, we consider this one of our approaches to addressing an underlying factor in nasolabial folds because it targets the dermis, the supporting layer of the skin, with the aim of achieving lasting improvement.
Explore our English-language pages →
Which nasolabial fold treatmentis right for me?
There are many options for treating nasolabial folds, including growth factor injections, hyaluronic acid fillers, thread lifts, and HIFU. During consultations, patients often ask, ‘Which treatment is actually right for me?’
One reason I consider growth factor injections a key option for nasolabial fold treatment is that they aim for natural-looking, long-term improvement by encouraging your skin’s own collagen and elastin production, rather than filling the area primarily with the volume of an injected product, as hyaluronic acid fillers do.
We have seen a patient whose nasolabial fold improvement was still maintained 4 years and 4 months after treatment.
We have also observed other cases in which improvements remained visible several years after treatment.
Of course, the aging process continues after any treatment. However, in some of our long-term follow-up cases, untreated areas have shown age-related changes while the nasolabial fold areas treated with growth factors have retained a comparatively youthful appearance.
- You want a natural-looking improvement in nasolabial folds
- You want the results to remain satisfactory for as long as possible
- You want to reduce the burden of repeated injections
If there is a pronounced hollow beside the nose or noticeable cheek sagging, we may recommend combining growth factor injections with hyaluronic acid fillers or a thread lift. Our first step is to examine why your nasolabial folds are prominent.
First, take a look at real patient cases
Rather than describing the treatment only in words, I believe it is easier to understand when you can see actual patient cases. We tailor growth factor treatment to the condition of each person’s nasolabial folds, regardless of age or gender.
We also share long-term cases, not just photographs taken immediately after treatment or a few months later. If you are considering growth factor treatment, I encourage you to look at how the results change over time, as well as the initial improvement.
Nasolabial folds that became more noticeable with age
From the 40s onward, nasolabial folds can become more prominent due to a combination of factors, including declining skin collagen, facial bone structure, fat distribution, and sagging. In this case, we aimed for a natural improvement without creating an unnatural bulge along the folds.
Read the full case description and follow-up →
Natural-looking improvement for men, too
Male patients also tell us that their nasolabial folds make them look tired or older than they really are. For men as well, our priority is a natural-looking result using injections alone whenever appropriate.
Read the full case description and follow-up →
Good results maintained at 4 years and 4 months
The photographs compare the condition before treatment and 3 years and 4 months afterward. The patient continued to show favorable results at 4 years and 4 months.
Naturally, aging continued over those years, and not everyone will have the same outcome. We have observed several other cases in which improvement was maintained years after treatment. Seeing these long-term results firsthand is one reason I regard growth factor injections as a key option for nasolabial fold treatment.
Read the full case description and follow-up →View more growth factor treatment cases for nasolabial folds →
What are growth factors?
Growth factors are a group of proteins naturally present in the body that support cell growth and repair. In the skin, they play a role in the production of collagen and elastin.
The dermis, a layer beneath the skin’s surface, is supported by collagen and elastin. As these decrease due to aging, UV exposure, and other factors, the skin may lose firmness. Nasolabial folds that once appeared mainly when smiling may then become noticeable even when the face is at rest.
When growth factors are injected around the nasolabial folds, they are intended to encourage collagen and elastin production, gradually improving the skin’s underlying support. This differs from hyaluronic acid fillers, which use the physical volume of the injected material to fill hollows.
Why we consider this an approach to an underlying cause
The treatment targets age- and lifestyle-related loss of skin collagen, one of the factors that can contribute to nasolabial folds. However, if bone structure, fat distribution, or sagging is a major cause, other treatments may need to be combined to address those factors.
Who may be a good candidate for growth factor injections?
During a consultation, we do more than decide whether growth factor injections are technically possible. We first identify why the nasolabial folds are prominent. Depending on the cause, combining growth factor treatment with another procedure may produce a more natural-looking result.
RECOMMENDED
People who may be particularly well suited
- You want to improve nasolabial folds naturally
- You prefer a treatment with the potential for longer-lasting results
- Your folds remain visible even when your face is relaxed
- You have noticed a loss of firmness in your skin
- Your smile lines remain visible after you stop smiling
- You want to minimize regular maintenance treatments
- You want to address your folds before they become more pronounced in the future
COMBINATION MAY HELP
When growth factor injections alone may not be enough
- You have a pronounced structural hollow beside the nose
- There is a deep step-off above the nasolabial fold
- The crease within the nasolabial fold is particularly deep
- You want the hollow to look less noticeable immediately after treatment
- You are seeking a substantial change from a single treatment
These features do not necessarily mean that growth factor treatment is unsuitable. However, growth factor injections alone may not meet your expectations. In some cases, staged treatment with additional growth factor injections or hyaluronic acid fillers can help achieve a more satisfying result.
Growth factor injections vs. hyaluronic acid fillers
Hyaluronic acid fillers replace lost volume in the nasolabial fold area, so improvement can often be seen immediately after injection.
Growth factor injections, on the other hand, are intended to encourage the skin to produce collagen and elastin, so results take several months to develop.
At our clinic, we often recommend growth factor injections for wrinkles within the nasolabial folds. When the hollow beside the nose is pronounced, we may also combine them with hyaluronic acid fillers.
| Comparison | Growth factor injections | Hyaluronic acid fillers |
|---|---|---|
| Main purpose | Encourage collagen and elastin production to support the skin’s structure | Replace lost volume and restore contour |
| When results appear | Gradually over approximately 6 months | Improvement may be noticeable immediately after treatment |
| Duration | Potentially long-lasting. Some cases may maintain satisfactory results for up to approximately 10 years. | Varies by product and injection site; repeat treatment may be considered as needed |
| Number of sessions | Approximately 80% of our patients complete treatment in one session | Additional sessions may be considered periodically based on results and patient preferences |
| Dissolvability | No dissolving enzyme is available | Can be dissolved using hyaluronidase |
| Especially suited to | People prioritizing natural-looking, long-term improvement | People who want a more immediate result |
*Suitability, treatment amount, effectiveness, and duration of results vary between individuals. Results lasting 10 years are not guaranteed for every patient. Combining both treatments may provide a more natural improvement in some cases. For details, see the differences between hyaluronic acid fillers and growth factor injections .
Patient cases by age, gender, and fold type
When I explain a treatment, I try to show real patient cases whenever possible, rather than relying on words alone. Even when two people are concerned about the same ‘nasolabial folds,’ the underlying causes may differ between someone in their 20s and someone in their 50s. Bone structure, skin thickness, and the degree of sagging can also change the best treatment approach within the same age group.
We use growth factor injections for a wide range of patients, from younger people with relatively faint folds to those whose folds reflect aging and sagging, as well as men concerned about smile lines.
Subtle, natural correction at an early stage
Even at a younger age, facial structure and repeated expression lines can leave nasolabial folds visible at rest. Some patients in their 20s prefer to seek treatment while their folds are still faint, rather than waiting until they become deeply etched. Others choose treatment in the hope of limiting future progression.
View treatment details and follow-up →
Natural improvement in lines visible even at rest
In this case, the nasolabial folds had become visible even at rest as skin collagen declined with age. We also treat folds that have deepened alongside skin aging in patients in their 40s and beyond.
View treatment details and follow-up →CONSULTATION
Not sure which treatment is right for you? We’re here to help.
You don’t need to decide on growth factor injections before booking an appointment. We will first examine why your nasolabial folds are prominent, then explain whether growth factor injections alone—or a combination with hyaluronic acid fillers or thread lifting—may be more suitable.
Why patients choose growth factor treatment at our clinic
Our approach goes beyond simply offering a product called ‘growth factors.’ Through our focus on nasolabial fold treatment, we have refined our approach to concentration, formulation, injection volume, injection sites, and timing of additional treatment, with the aim of achieving results that look natural and remain satisfactory over time.
By making use of your skin’s own regenerative processes, we aim for a natural improvement without an obviously ‘filled’ appearance.
In many of our long-term follow-up cases, treated areas have remained in good condition over an extended period.
We carefully adjust concentration, formulation, and injection technique with the aim of achieving sufficient improvement in as few sessions as possible.
Mild swelling and bruising are possible, but many patients are able to continue their usual daily activities.
Treatment is intended to address reduced collagen and elastin, which are among the factors contributing to nasolabial folds.
We value follow-up care and generally assess the results about 6 months after treatment.
Long-term follow-up reveals a distinctive feature of this treatment
In some cases, satisfactory results may be maintained for up to approximately 10 years.
Over the years, I have had opportunities to examine patients long after their growth factor injections, and I have personally seen cases in which the treated area remained in good condition. Aging of course continues, and both the effect and its duration vary between individuals. Nonetheless, I consider the potential for long-term improvement one of the notable characteristics of growth factor treatment.
How treated and untreated areas change with age
Natural aging continues after treatment. However, in this long-term case, wrinkles have become more noticeable in an untreated area around the mouth, while the nasolabial fold area treated with growth factors has maintained a comparatively youthful appearance.
View the follow-up for this case →Growth Factor Injections vs. Hyaluronic Acid Fillers
A long-term cost illustration
*All prices below include tax.
In aesthetic medicine, the cost of a single session does not always reflect the potential expense over many years. At ¥180,000 per session, growth factor treatment is not inexpensive. However, approximately 80% of patients at our clinic complete treatment in one session, and we do not assume that regular repeat injections will be necessary.
As a result, growth factor treatment may be less expensive over the long term for some patients. To illustratehow costs might differ if treatment is continued over time, here is a simple 10-year example based on our clinic’s prices.
One growth factor treatment at our clinic
¥180,000
¥270,000 in total if one additional injection session is performed
Illustrative example: one syringe of hyaluronic acid filler
once a year for 10 years
¥770,000
¥77,000 per syringe × once yearly × 10 years
The actual number of syringes and treatment frequency vary by patient
| Example treatment plan | Illustrative long-term cost (tax included) |
|---|---|
| One growth factor treatment | ¥180,000 |
| One growth factor treatment + one additional injection session | ¥270,000 |
| One filler syringe annually for 10 years (hypothetical) | ¥770,000 |
| One filler syringe every 6 months for 10 years (hypothetical) | ¥1,540,000 |
This does not mean that hyaluronic acid filler treatment will necessarily cost ¥770,000.
These figures are a simplified illustration of possible costs if treatment is continued over a long period. The number of filler syringes, treatment frequency, and duration of results vary according to the product used, injection site, condition of the nasolabial folds, and individual goals. With growth factor treatment, effectiveness and the number of sessions required also vary.
*Filler costs are calculated using our clinic’s standard price of ¥77,000 per syringe. These figures do not represent a recommended or typical treatment schedule. All prices include tax.
Safety and risks to understand before treatment
I believe that even when we have confidence in a treatment, we should never discuss only its benefits. Growth factor injections, in particular, cannot be dissolved afterward in the same way that hyaluronic acid fillers can. It is therefore essential to understand the treatment’s features and potential risks before proceeding.
Our clinic has performed more than 3,000 growth factor treatments for nasolabial folds. To date, we have not encountered the type of vascular compromise that can occur with procedures such as hyaluronic acid filler or fat injections.
However, swelling, bruising, or discomfort may occur after the injections.
The treated area may look slightly fuller immediately after treatment.
Small spots of bruising or more noticeable bruises may occur.
Temporary pain or discomfort and some asymmetry may occur.
Although we have not observed these at our clinic to date, they remain possible.
These may occur depending on factors such as the dose and injection location.
The degree of improvement, number of sessions, and duration of results vary from person to person.
What the treated area may look like the next day
There is no dissolving enzyme like the one used for hyaluronic acid fillers
Hyaluronic acid fillers can be dissolved with hyaluronidase when necessary. By contrast, there is no dedicated enzyme that dissolves the effects of growth factor treatment, and it can be difficult to return the area completely to its original condition.
So far, we have not had a patient ask us to reverse the treatment and restore their previous appearance. Nevertheless, precisely because this treatment cannot be dissolved, I believe that careful planning of the initial concentration, formulation, dose, and injection sites is especially important.
How results develop after treatment
Unlike hyaluronic acid fillers, growth factor injections do not produce their final result immediately after treatment.
The folds may temporarily appear less noticeable.
The swelling settles.
The treatment’s effects begin to emerge gradually.
This is also when we assess whether further treatment is needed.
A case showing improvement after just 1 month
Some patients show visible improvement within 1 month
The final result is generally assessed around 6 months, but some patients begin to notice changes after about a week, with visible improvement by the 1-month point.
View the follow-up for this case →It is important not to rush additional injections.
Because it takes approximately 6 months for the final result to settle, we generally observe the progress for that period even if a patient feels they would like more improvement. Since growth factor treatment cannot be dissolved, we take care to avoid excessive fullness.
What Houreisen Skin Clinic prioritizes when planning injections
Even when a treatment is described by the same name—’growth factors’—the outcome can differ depending on the selected product, concentration, formulation, injection volume, tissue layer, and injection location.
Unlike hyaluronic acid fillers, growth factor treatment has no dissolving enzyme. For that reason, I place greater emphasis on carefully planning the initial treatment than on an approach of ‘inject now and add more later if needed.’
We draw on a wide range of clinical cases when planning injections.
We examine the folds not only at rest but also when you smile.
Our approach does not assume that multiple sessions will be needed.
We prioritize a natural-looking result over excessive correction.
We evaluate progress by comparing the treated area with photographs taken before treatment.
To date, we have not had a case that we assessed as excessively full or unnaturally altered in appearance.
We have performed more than 3,000 growth factor treatments for nasolabial folds. Fortunately, we have not encountered a case that we judged to be overfilled or to have developed an unnatural appearance as a result of treatment at our clinic.
However, this does not mean that such an outcome is impossible in the future. We will continue to approach every case with care.
What to expect at your appointment and treatment prices
Treatment process
We assess the causes of your folds and whether the treatment is suitable.
We document the condition before treatment.
Local anesthetic is applied or administered to the injection area.
We inject while checking the balance between both sides.
We apply pressure to control any bleeding and complete the procedure.
Growth factor treatment pricing
Nasolabial folds | Both sides
180,000JPY
Nasolabial fold | One side
110,000JPY
Additional injection session
90,000JPY
*All prices include tax and anesthesia. A physician will determine whether and when an additional injection session is appropriate following an examination.
For patients seeking a lower treatment cost, we also offer a case-photo model program.
See model program prices and requirements →
We offer a free follow-up examination approximately 6 months after treatment.
Because you see your face every day, gradual changes may be difficult to notice. We compare the results with your pre-treatment photographs and discuss improvement, symmetry, and whether any additional treatment is necessary.
Frequently asked questions
Can one session really be enough?
Approximately 80% of our patients complete treatment in a single session. However, some may benefit from additional growth factor injections or treatment in combination with hyaluronic acid fillers.
When will I begin to see results?
Some patients begin noticing changes after about a week. Improvement generally develops over several months, with results settling at around 6 months.
How long do the results last?
Growth factor injections may provide long-term improvement. In some cases, satisfactory results may be maintained for up to approximately 10 years. We have also seen patients with favorable outcomes several years after treatment. However, aging continues, and the effectiveness and duration of results vary between individuals.
Is there a risk of skin necrosis or blindness?
Although we have performed more than 3,000 growth factor treatments for nasolabial folds, we have not encountered any cases of skin necrosis or blindness associated with vascular occlusion at our clinic to date.
Can I have treatment if my nasolabial folds are still faint?
Yes, depending on the findings of your consultation. Some patients seek treatment while their folds are still faint, hoping to address them before they deepen further.
Should I have growth factor injections or a thread lift first?
If your main concern is nasolabial folds, we generally recommend considering growth factor injections first. A thread lift may temporarily make the folds look less pronounced, potentially affecting our assessment of the appropriate injection amount and treatment plan.
When can I wear makeup again?
Makeup is permitted from 1 hour after treatment.
More detailed FAQs
- Can one session really produce results?
- How long do the effects last?
- Can too much collagen be produced?
- Does it work on hollows beside the nose?
- Are growth factor injections safe?
- Is the treatment painful?
- Is there a risk of developing lumps?
- Which should come first: a thread lift or growth factor injections?
Summary
Growth factor injection therapy is one of our key approaches to addressing a contributing factor in nasolabial folds: the age-related decline in skin collagen.
Unlike hyaluronic acid fillers, which create volume immediately after injection, growth factor treatment aims to produce natural-looking changes gradually over several months. In many of our long-term follow-up cases, the treated nasolabial fold area has remained in good condition for years.
Before treatment, it is important to understand that the effects are not immediate, there is no dissolving enzyme equivalent to the one used for hyaluronic acid fillers, and results and the number of sessions required vary by patient.
My goal is not simply to give every patient growth factor injections. What matters is examining the causes of each person’s nasolabial folds and assessing whether the treatment is truly appropriate. We do not push unnecessary procedures, so please feel free to discuss your concerns with us.
Consultations and appointments
Talk to us about your nasolabial folds
Consultations are available at our Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya clinics.
Please choose your preferred location.
Related articles
About nasolabial folds
- How to improve nasolabial folds
- Causes of nasolabial folds
- Prevention and self-care
- Types of nasolabial folds
- Nasolabial folds in men
- Hollows beside the nose
- Nasolabial folds when smiling
- Asymmetrical nasolabial folds
- Nasolabial folds in your 20s
- Nasolabial folds in your 30s
- Nasolabial folds in your 40s
- Nasolabial folds in your 50s
- Costs of nasolabial fold treatment
- Hyaluronic acid fillers for nasolabial folds
About growth factors
- Differences between hyaluronic acid fillers and growth factor injections
- Risks and side effects of growth factor treatment
- Aftercare following growth factor treatment
- Patient testimonials
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