Injectables - Ready to Take the Plunge?
Injectables (we mean anti-wrinkle injections and dermal fillers) remain the most sought-after non-surgical option for facial rejuvenation, according to the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery - and for good reason.
When administered well, they are highly safe and effective in achieving numerous rejuvenation goals, such as laxity and lines, volume loss, balancing of facial features, improving facial symmetry and therefore one’s overall aesthetics.
Anti-Wrinkle Injections
Botulinum toxin works by relaxing the treated muscles under the skin, and has been used to treat a wide range of medical conditions for the past 40 years. It was first approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating facial wrinkles in 1989, and has since become one of the most popular treatments across the globe.
Common indications: - facial wrinkles - gummy smile - cobblestone chin - wide jaw - teeth grinding
Side effects: as with any injection, redness, swelling, pain and bruising can be expected; these usually resolve within hours without treatment. Other risks would depend on the specific treatment site(s), and the individual’s anatomy.
Dermal Fillers
The majority of dermal fillers are made of hyaluronic acid, a molecule naturally found in the skin and acts by attracting moisture and plumping the skin. Hyaluronic acid fillers vary according to their “G prime” rating (a.k.a. fluidity and flexibility), so treatments need careful planning by an experienced practitioner.
For instance, a “soft” filler works great on the lips to give a natural pout, but would be less ideal for areas like the jaw or mid-face. These latter areas could benefit more from a “stiff” or collagen-stimulating dermal fillers, which are designed to be deposited deeper into the soft tissue. Over time, they encourage the body to produce its own collagen, as the name suggests.
Hyaluronic acid fillers are not the same as skin boosters. Many of these also contain hyaluronic acid, but are intentionally manufactured to spread more easily once injected into the skin, and so are great for surface hydration rather than volumisation.
Common indications: overall skin laxity - hollow temples - eye bag & circles - nose hump - sunken cheeks - nose-to-mouth lines (nasolabial folds) - marionette lines - thin lips - lip lines - weak chin - jowls - ageing hands
Side effects: just like anti-wrinkle injections, dermal fillers may leave you with the same side effects of redness, swelling, pain and bruising; these can take 2-3 days to resolve, with bruising sometimes longer. For this reason, we always advise patients to schedule their filler appointments at least 2 weeks away from important events.
Further Questions?
Still wondering if injectables are for you? Book in with the M-ethod™ for an individualised aesthetic treatment plan and unbiased recommendations tailored to your needs.
References:
Aesthetic Surgery Journal, 2014, volume 34 supplement 2, pages 227-234
Dermatologic Surgery, 2014, volume 40 supplement 11, pages 1191-1190
Dermatologic Surgery, 2014, volume 40 supplement 5, pages 525-536.
Dermatologic Surgery. 2017, volume 43, pages 293-303
