The NLF area refers to the region of the bulging fat pad and skin lateral to the nasolabial crease (NLC).
Understanding the Nasolabial Area
To understand the Nasolabial Fold (NLF) area, it's helpful to distinguish it from the Nasolabial Crease (NLC).
The Nasolabial Crease (NLC)
The nasolabial crease (NLC), also known as the nasolabial sulcus, is a facial line. According to the provided reference, this crease is located between the upper lip and cheek.
- Starting Point: It originates from the alae nasi (the outer sides of the nostrils).
- Ending Point: It extends down to the lip commissure (the corners of the mouth).
- Variable Extension: The crease can sometimes extend upward towards the side of the nose or downward below the lip commissure.
The Nasolabial Fold (NLF)
In contrast to the line of the crease, the nasolabial fold (NLF) is a structural feature. Based on the provided reference, the NLF is specifically defined as:
"the bulging fat pad and skin lateral to the NLC"
This means the NLF is the raised area or prominence that occurs next to the nasolabial crease, situated towards the cheek side.
Key Differences: Crease vs. Fold
Think of it this way:
| Feature | Description | Location Relative to the Other |
|---|---|---|
| Nasolabial Crease (NLC) | The actual line or indentation | Medial (closer to the nose/lip) |
| Nasolabial Fold (NLF) | The raised area of skin and fat | Lateral (away from the nose/lip, on the cheek side) |
The NLF area therefore encompasses this bulging tissue that forms alongside the nasolabial crease. These folds become more prominent over time due to factors like aging, loss of collagen and elasticity, and gravity.
Factors Influencing the NLF Appearance
Several factors can make the NLF area more noticeable:
- Aging: Loss of facial volume and skin elasticity.
- Genetics: Predisposition to prominent folds.
- Sun Exposure: Damages collagen and accelerates skin aging.
- Smoking: Impairs skin health and elasticity.
- Weight Fluctuations: Significant weight loss or gain can impact facial fat distribution.
Understanding the distinction between the NLC and the NLF is crucial in cosmetic and medical contexts, as treatments often target the NLF area to reduce the appearance of the folds.
