Study Looks at Effects of Fillers on First Impressions

A new study found that the correction of nasolabial folds, commonly known as smile lines, using hyaluronic acid fillers affects the first impression one makes on others. Hyaluronic acid exists naturally in all living organisms and is a natural component of connective tissues; fillers in this category include Restylane and Juvederm.

The study by the Chicago Center for Facial Plastic Surgery had 22 participants who received injections of hyaluronic acid fillers into their nasolabial folds. Photos were taken of the subjects’ faces in a relaxed pose at baseline, optimal correction visit and four weeks after optimal correction.

Then 304 evaluators completed a survey rating first impressions for each photo. In total, 5,776 first impressions were recorded.

The findings indicated a significant improvement in mean first impression in several categories at the optimal correction visit. The categories included dating success; attractiveness; financial success; relationship success; athletic success; and overall first impression.

The authors concluded, “Full correction of the nasolabial folds with hyaluronic acid filler significantly and positively influences the first impression an individual projects.”

Commenting on the study, board certified dermatologist Dr. Kenneth Beer wrote, “When used correctly, they [hyaluronic acids] help restore more youthful proportions. For women, this includes higher cheekbones, fuller temporal areas, and more sculpted facial features. Hyaluronic acids may also be used to camouflage the bone loss associated with menopause and its loss of reproductive capacity. Transforming a postmenopausal face into one that has the features of a premenopausal face will have a profound effect on first impressions.”

The study appears in the November issue of the Dermatologic Surgery journal, and the abstract is available online.