Piriform Fossa vs. Smile Lines: What’s the Difference and How Do You Treat Them?

Aging is inevitable! but looking tired or hollow doesn’t have to be. Two of the most commonly misunderstood facial areas that show early signs of aging are the piriform fossa and smile lines (nasolabial folds). While they’re often mistaken for one another, they require different treatment approaches for optimal results.

In this blog, we’ll break down:

• What the piriform fossa and smile lines are

• Why treating them is different

• How dermal fillers and skin boosters can work harmoniously to rejuvenate your face

What Is the Piriform Fossa?

The piriform fossa (also known as the piriform space) is a deep anatomical hollow located at the base of the nose, beside the nostrils, and above the smile lines.

With age, volume loss in this area can create a shadow or depression, making the mid-face appear sunken or tired. This hollowness can also exaggerate the appearance of nasolabial folds (even if those folds aren’t deeply set yet.)

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Best Treatment for Piriform Fossa: Dermal Filler

To restore volume and support, dermal fillers such as hyaluronic acid-based products (e.g., Juvéderm, Teosyal, or Revolax) are injected deeply into the piriform fossa. This:

• Softens the midface shadows

• Reduces the depth of nasolabial folds indirectly

• Supports the nose and upper lip area for a balanced profile

Expert tip: Treating the piriform fossa can often reduce the need for directly filling the smile lines, making it a foundational treatment in full-face rejuvenation.

What Are Smile Lines (Nasolabial Folds)?

Smile lines (medically known as nasolabial folds) are the creases that run from the corners of the nose to the corners of the mouth. They are a natural result of facial expression, but with age, skin laxity, and volume loss, they can deepen and become static (visible even when not smiling).

Best Treatment for Smile Lines: Skin Boosters

Unlike the piriform fossa, smile lines don’t always need heavy dermal filler. Instead, skin boosters can:

• Hydrate the skin from within

• Improve skin elasticity

• Smooth out fine lines and creases

Products like Profhilo, polynucleotides, or Skin boosters are ideal for rejuvenating this area. They are injected superficially into the skin to improve quality without adding bulk.

Bonus: Skin boosters provide an all-over glow, making them perfect for clients who want subtle but visible improvements.

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Why You Shouldn’t Overfill Smile Lines

Many clients come in asking for smile lines to be “filled,” but that’s often not the best approach. Directly injecting too much filler into the nasolabial folds can lead to:

• Overly puffy or unnatural appearance

• Disrupted facial dynamics when smiling

• Weighing down the mid-face

By first assessing volume loss (especially in the piriform fossa or cheeks) and then using skin boosters, you achieve natural, balanced rejuvenation.

🧬 Combination Approach = Best Results

The best results often come from a customized, layered treatment plan. Here’s a typical approach:

This approach restores structure (filler) and enhances skin quality (skin boosters) - creating a refreshed, youthful look without obvious signs of cosmetic work.

✅ Key Benefits of Treating Piriform Fossa and Smile Lines

• Restores mid-face volume and harmony

• Reduces appearance of deep folds without overfilling

• Boosts skin hydration and radiance

• Enhances facial symmetry and contour

• Minimally invasive with little downtime

📍 Choosing the Right Practitioner

Because of the anatomical complexity of the piriform fossa and the subtlety required for smile lines, it’s important to choose a skilled injector with a deep understanding of facial anatomy and advanced product knowledge.

💬 Want to know what treatment is best for you? Book a consultation with our expert aesthetic team at Georgie’s aesthetics today.

📌 Final Thoughts

When it comes to piriform fossa vs. smile lines, understanding the difference in anatomy and treatment strategy is key to achieving natural-looking, long-lasting results.

Whether you’re looking to reduce deep facial shadows or smooth out fine lines around your mouth, combining dermal fillers and skin boosters can offer a comprehensive, age-defying solution.