Injectable hyaluronic acid is used to fill in lines and wrinkles that are causing you to look aged and tired. This is an option if you want results quickly and do not want to wait for topical products to start working their magic. Some people will use both topical products and injections to get the most out of hyaluronic acid. This type of filler works to add contour, smooth wrinkles, and plump sagging skin. It can take years off of your face in just a single session.
What Are the Best Uses?
This type of injection works best when your deep facial creases are medium to moderate in nature. Superficial forehead and lip lines tend to respond very well to this type of filler. The doctor can also contour the jaw and fill in the folds that run from the corner of your mouth up to your nose. While not all doctors are trained to do so, some are able to also work on your eyes. If you want to fill in lines around the eyes or fill in any hollow areas, it is best to have it done by a cosmetic eye surgeon. This type of doctor is used to working with the thin, delicate skin in this area.
Can Side Effects Occur?
A needle is being used and the skin is experiencing a type of trauma, so there is potential for some side effects. Bruising and swelling are common, but they are temporary and will be gone completely in a week for most people. If you experience a bumps or lumps, there are enzymes that can be injected to quickly and easily dissolve these for you. For most people, these injections go flawlessly and they experience only minor swelling or bruising for a short time afterward.
What is the Procedure Like?
The injection procedure is very simple. You will lie back in a chair and your doctor will likely numb your face a little bit after cleansing it. This can be done with a topical gel or an injection of numbing medication. Your doctor will mark the injection areas and you will get a chance to agree to where they should be placed. The injections are done and the markings are cleaned off of your face. On average, this takes about 30 minutes from start to finish.
How Long Do Results Last?
Hyaluronic acid fillers tend to last the longest, with the average being 12 to 18 months. In most cases, you will have an injection, come back in six months for a second injection, and then you are fine until you feel that you need a touch up. Many people notice that they can go as long as two years before needing another course of injections.