Facial Fillers: Hyaluronic Acid
What is injectable hyaluronic acid?
Injectable hyaluronic acid (HA) is a type of temporary dermal filler. Hyaluronic acid is found naturally through out the body, with the highest concentrations in the joints, eyes, and skin. In the skin hyaluronic acid attracts water, which allows the skin to become more hydrated. As we age, the fat, muscles, bone, and skin in our face begins to thin. This loss of volume leads to either a sunken or sagging appearance of the face, fine lines, wrinkles, folds, and thin lips. Injectable HA is used to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, facial folds, and to create structure, framework, and volume to the face and lips. The effects of injectable hyaluronic acid are seen immediately.
When is injectable hyaluronic acid appropriate?
HA dermal fillers have been used for:
- Wrinkles
- Nasolabial folds
- Marionette lines
- Pre-jowl sulcus
- Lips
- Fine lines around the mouth
- Under the eyes
- Cheek augmentation
- Earlobes
- Volume loss on the back of hands
Who is not a candidate for hyaluronic acid?
HA is not recommended for patients who have:
- Active facial or oral herpes infection
- Infection in the treatment area
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- Blood-clotting problems
- Allergy to any components of injectable hyaluronic acid
- Patients whom are pregnant or breast-feeding
Is injectable hyaluronic acid painful?
Topical numbing agents or anesthetic injections can be used to improve patient comfort during the injection process. Also, lidocaine is commonly incorporated into most brands of HA fillers for further comfort measures. Before and following treatment, ice may be given to ease discomfort and swelling.
What can I expect after having had injectable hyaluronic acid?
HA fillers are temporary, the longevity of the filler depends on the composition of the HA, location of the injection, and the patient. Patients require maintenance treatments to achieve the best results.
What is the cost of hyaluronic acid?
Injectable hyaluronic acid (HA) exist in different types for different areas and results. Prices start at 275€ / syringe up-to 350€ / syringe. The doctor can advise on how much filler is necessary to create the desired effect. Most of the time smaller quantities are used to begin treatment, later on more can be added, to make sure the results are as natural as possible.
