Histochemical Study of Nasolabial Fold in Indian Cadavers

BACKGROUND A distinct change in human senescence occurs in the face and the most pioneering sign appears in the area surrounding the eyes and nasolabial fold. Each injector learns through experience, where to place the botulinum toxin for desired effects. Aims & Objectives Haematoxylin & Eosin study was performed to understand the histology of the Nasolabial fold (NLF). METHODS Nasolabial folds were identified in 5 formalin-fixed cadavers aged between 55-70 years. Tissue was obtained from three points: one from ala of the nose (A), second from the angle of the mouth (C), and third from the mid-centre of an imaginary line extending from point A to point C (B) bilaterally and then formalin-fixed, paraffin-installed, and stained with haematoxylin and eosin stain. RESULTS Macroscopically, several muscle fibres of different origins were observed to insert directly on the nasolabial fold. On microscopic investigation, muscular fibres were observed to extend from the subcutaneous layer to the dermis, at point A&C and few or no muscle fibres were observed at point B. CONCLUSIONS Microscopical investigation shows muscular fibres extending from the subcutaneous layer to the dermis, at point A&C and few or no muscle fibres were observed at point B. If botulism toxin is injected intradermally adjacent to the ala of nose and angle of mouth it gives a satisfactory result to reduce rhytids.