DERMAL FILLERS
HYALURONIC ACID : A VITAL SKIN COMPONENT
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a naturally occurring polysaccharide
(sugar) present in most tissues of the human body. The average
adult human body contains 7-8g of HA; approximately half of which
is found in the skin, where it plays a vital role in maintaining
normal skin structure and function.
The HA is primarily found in the Epidermis (higher
concentrations) and Dermis (lower concentrations).
HA HAS SIX IMPORTANT ACTIONS IN THE SKIN:
- Most importantly, it traps a vast amount of moisture to keep
the skin hydrated
- It has viscoelastic properties, acting as a shock absorber and
lubricant
- It helps new skin cells grow and replace old skin cells
- It helps skin cells produce collagen and other substances
essential for maintaining skin structure
- It helps collagen and elastin maintain skin structure
- It prevents free radical activity and protects skin cells.
HA is not species or tissue specific. Its chemical structure is
uniform throughout nature. In the skin, multiple HA base units come
together to form an elastoviscous fluid matrix in which collagen
fibres and other intercellular
structures are embedded. HA is negatively charged and binds
massive quantities if water, helping to give the skin its supple,
resilient quality. Scientific evidence correlates increased levels
of HA in the dermis to smoother and radiant skin.
HA is gradually lost from the skin over time as a result of both
intrinsic (age, sex, oestrogen status) and extrinsic (changes in
temperature, wind, sun, medication) factors. There is also a
decrease in the synthesis of hyaluronic acid and a
re-compartmentalisation of HA from the epidermis to the dermis.
People aged 35 years have around twice as much HA in their skin as
people aged 55 years.
This naturally occurring decrease in HA leads to:
- Loss of skin hydration
- Skin thinning
- Decreased ability for the skin to restore itself
WHAT ARE DERMAL FILLERS?
Injectable Hydra Fill is manufactured by Corneal Laboratories,
which is recognised as a world-leader in the production of
cross-linked hyaluronic acids.
All injectable Hydra Fill products are:
- Highly concentrated
- Purified
- Cross-linked using the least toxic cross linking chemical agent
available
- Compliant with the requirements of the European
Pharmacopoeia
- Bio-synthetic in origin
- Flash sterile
- Biodegradable
They can be used to:
- Soften wrinkles and scars
- Remodel cheeks and the chin
- Enhance the contours of the face and mouth
- Increase the volume of the lips
Importantly
- No skin tests are required before Hydra Fill treatment can be
given
- Topical local anaesthetic cream is used prior to treatment
- Results last approximately 6 to 9 months
KEYPOINTS
- All injectable Hydra Fill products represent the pinnacle of
innovation, safety and efficacy
- The Hydra Fill range contains five different products – each
with a unique composition and specification
- Hydra Fill is bio-synthetic in origin and manufactured to the
highest quality standards
- Hydra Fill is indicated for the correction of fine lines and
wrinkles, for chin and cheek augmentation and for enhancing lip
definition and volume
- Hydra Fill procedures offer immediate visible reductions in
lines, wrinkles and furrows and restores skin hydration
- The treatment may last up to 9 months
THE PROCEDURE
The procedure can be carried out in about 30-60 minutes.
The dermal filler that you and the surgeon choose may depend on
the results you require and the area being filled (for example,
delicate lines or deep furrows), as well as your preference
regarding advantages and disadvantages. Common brands include
Collagen – made from bovine tissue protein and Restylane - which
contains a non-animal stabilised hyaluronic acid (a substance which
is also naturally produced in the body).
A topical anaesthetic cream may be applied to reduce discomfort,
then the surgeon or practitioner will inject the filler into the
site to be treated to plump out the skin, repeating as necessary on
other areas. It will be gently massaged once it has been injected
into the site. The filler then remains in the skin where it binds
water to produce a lift and give firmness to the treated areas.
The procedure is minimally invasive with mild discomfort and
won’t leave scars.
THE OUTCOME
Following the procedure, there may be some redness in the
treated areas, though this is usually minimal. Your face may be a
little swollen and tender for a short period.
Normally, patients can leave the clinic a few minutes after the
procedure. You can return to work the same day and resume most
activities within four hours. The treatment starts to work in about
3-5 days, with the greatest effect seen after about 1-2 weeks.
Make-up may be applied immediately afterwards.
Lines and wrinkles treated should appear smoother and softer,
giving a more ‘youthful’ appearance to the face. The effects are
not permanent but should last for around 3-9 months.
THE RISKS
Complications particular to dermal fillers include a risk of
allergic reaction to the filler, compounded by the fact that once
injected, the treatment cannot be reversed until the effects have
worn off. Allergy tests may be necessary to reduce the chance of
this occurring.
If you experience cold sores, then there may be a recurrence of
them after treatment, although the chance of this can be minimised
by the use of antiviral medicines. There is a slight risk of
longer-lasting bruising to the treated area.
Rare side effects may include tissue hardening and lumps or
bumps around the area.
WHAT NEXT?
With Vive, each consultation is tailored to an individual’s
needs, but the process will always involve a thorough
evaluation of your present and past medical history and physical
examination of the problem area. Your consultant plastic or
specialist surgeon will take time to listen to your concerns and
will take care to ensure that you have a thorough understanding of
what can be done to help, the procedure itself, the recovery stages
and a clear
explanation of the risks involved.
You are positively encouraged to ask any questions that you may
have and to look at photographs of others who have had the same
type of surgery that you are considering. If you would find it
helpful, our advisory team may be able to arrange for you to speak
with a previous patient who is willing to discuss their experience
with you over the telephone.
* Please note the above treatment may not be
offered by every hospital. Please contact your local hospital
to check if the treatment/service is available in
your area.