Ageing has been directly related to loss of subcutaneous fat. This causes the facial muscles to work closer to the skin surface and thus the fine lines and crow's feet become more apparent. Dermal fillers are Hyaloronic acid based gels that are injected beneath the skin to restore lost volume, smooth lines and soften creases, or enhance facial contours.
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There are a variety of FDA approved filler products like Juvederm- Voluma, Ultraplus, Volift etc which are categorized by the substance they are made from. Each product is uniquely formulated to have a certain texture, density, and injection depth, which means that certain fillers work better for certain areas of concern. With so many dermal filler products on the market, it requires the expertise of your physician to determine which option is best for you.
Dermal filler injections are non-surgical and typically done as outpatient procedure. While the risks associated with dermal fillers are minimal, complete medical history should be shared such as allergies, skin and neurological conditions and or medications such as NSAIDs (e.g., aspirin, ibuprofen) or blood thinners, as this increase the likelihood of bruising.
The area is cleaned and a topical anaesthetic gel to numb the area prior to injection is applied. However, many filler products contain lidocaine, a mild anaesthetic, which helps to minimize the discomfort during and after the treatment. The physical then injects a precise amount of filler strategically beneath the skin at various points.
Depending on the product and the areas treated, one is able to notice results immediately after receiving filler injections. Some patients experience mild bruising and swelling, but these are temporary and subside soon over the days following treatment. The physical may restrict strenuous activity for a day or 2 in some cases.
Botulinum toxin (botox) injections relax muscles and prevent creasing and wrinkles when injected in and around facial skin. It is essentially effective to cover expression lines like frown lines, surprise lines on the forehead, ‘crow’s feet’ around the eyes. The injections are also used for BROW Lifts.
A local anaesthesia cream is applied for 30 min before the procedure. The pain incurred on injecting botox is very mild, which lasts merely for a few seconds. The effects usually come in 2 weeks. The positive effects typically last for three months but may prolong due to on-going treatment.
The side effects are normally temporary and restricted to the injected area alone, which includes bruising, headache, face pain, redness, swelling, skin tightness and muscle weakness etc.
Micro-botox, also known as intradermal botox, is a micro-needling treatment where diluted botulinum toxin is injected into the skin. The anti-ageing treatment treats wrinkles, acne scars, and improves pore size.
The treatment targets the sweat and oil glands and open pores of the skin. The diluted botox injection compels sweat glands to shrink resulting in smoother and clearer skin. This thus reduces pore size, tightens skin, and fades imperfection. Unlike traditional botox treatment, the muscles are not affected that much as micro-botox is performed at the superficial level of the skin.
Micro-botox treatment typically lasts for thirty minutes. While effects will be noticeable after the first treatment, the repeat treatment is needed after 3-4 months. Though micro-botox is not a permanent solution, the skin can be improved greatly for a span of several months, which can save immense costs on skin care rituals and makeup.
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