Is more better? That’s the question that patients sometimes ask themselves when they think about using aesthetic enhancement treatments like dermal fillers, botox and thread lifts. While the answer to this is not always straightforward, we think patients should always have a full grasp of the options that are available to them.
Today, we’re looking at the arsenal at hand for patients, and what they can do when they need to give their face a youthful boost.
Types of Injectables for Facial Enhancement
There are three main categories of injectables available for the enhancement of the face. They are dermal fillers, botox, Calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHa), and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) fillers. PRP fillers, however, are not yet available for aesthetic use in Singapore. Here’s a quick primer on each one of these injectables.
Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers are injectables that add volume and hydration to the skin, and reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and other signs of aging. They are made from a variety of materials, including hyaluronic acid, calcium hydroxylapatite, poly-l-lactic Acid, polymethyl methacrylate and collagen.
Each material does essentially the same thing a little differently. Hyaluronic acid is currently one of the most popular forms of dermal filler, and is often used as it is composed of a naturally occurring substance in the body that helps to keep the skin hydrated and plump.
The dermal filler procedure typically involves the use of a fine needle or cannula to inject the filler into the desired area, and can be completed in just a few minutes. The results are usually visible immediately after the treatment and can last anywhere from several months to over a year, depending on the type of filler used.
Dermal fillers in Singapore are most commonly used to enhance facial features, such as adding volume to the cheeks, lips and under-eye area, and filling in wrinkles and fine lines around the mouth and eyes. They can also be used to improve the appearance of acne scars and other types of facial scars.
Dermal fillers tend to be a safe and effective way to enhance your appearance and boost your confidence, and can be an alternative to more invasive cosmetic procedures. Common filler brands in Singapore include Restylane, Juvederm and Belotero.
Botox
Botox (botulinum toxin, common brands include Botox, Dysport and Xeomon)to temporarily relax muscles. Though it was used for medical purposes for decades, it was first approved for cosmetic purposes by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2002. This treatment is great for reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines caused by facial expressions, such as frown lines, crow’s feet, and forehead wrinkles. It also helps to delay the onset of permanent lines.
Botox works by blocking the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that transmits signals between nerve cells and muscles. This action temporarily weakens the muscle, thereby reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines caused by muscle movement.
One of Botox’s key advantages is that it is a non-surgical procedure that is minimally invasive. This means no downtime or recovery period. Most people can return to their normal activities immediately after the botox treatment in Singapore. Botox results usually last for three to six months, and its effects can be maintained with regular touch-up treatments.
On top of its cosmetic benefits, Botox has also been used for medical purposes like the treatment of migraines, excessive sweating, and muscle spasms. Botox has been extensively studied, and is considered safe and effective when administered by a qualified professional.
Calcium Hydroxylapatite
Also known by the brand name Radiesse, calcium hydroxylapatite is a popular filler that is often used for restoring volume to the skin. It is a synthetic form of the naturally occurring mineral hydroxylapatite, which is found in human bones and teeth.
When injected into the skin, calcium hydroxylapatite provides lift and volume, filling in wrinkles and fine lines. This plumping helps to give a more youthful appearance to the face. Calcium hydroxylapatite can be used to enhance the cheeks, jawline, and lips, as well as to fill in deep nasolabial folds.
The benefits of using calcium hydroxylapatite as a filler include its safety profile and long-lasting results, as well as the fact that it is well-tolerated by the body and does not require an allergy test prior to use. Additionally, calcium hydroxylapatite is a non-surgical option for facial rejuvenation, making it a popular choice for those who are looking to avoid more invasive procedures.
How Many Injectables Do You Need To Make A Difference?
The amount of injectables needed to make a noticeable difference depends on several factors, including the extent of skin aging, the type of injectable being used, and the outcome desired.
For dermal fillers, the amount of product needed varies depending on the size of the area being treated, as well as the desired outcome. A typical syringe of dermal filler can contain 1-2ml of product, and most people require one to three syringes per treatment.
Looking at Botox, the number of units needed can vary depending on the size of the muscle being relaxed, as well as the severity of the wrinkles being fixed. On average, most people require between 20 and 40 units of Botox per treatment.
When talking about threadlifts, the number of threads needed depends on the extent of sagging skin that needs to be treated. On average, most people require between four and eight threads per treatment.
It is important to keep in mind that every individual’s body and aesthetic goals are unique, so the amount of injectables used before a noticeable difference can be seen will vary from person to person. The best way to figure out how many injectables you need is to schedule a consultation with a qualified aesthetic doctor who can assess your individual needs and recommend a customised treatment plan.
How To Ensure Your Injectables Don’t Look Overdone?
Too much of a good thing can create an unsightly outcome. Here are some things to note to make sure your injectables don’t create a look that is overdone:
- Choose a reputable and experienced doctor: A qualified and experienced doctor will have the expertise to diagnose the problem, the necessary experience to understand your individual anatomy and the skill to achieve a natural-looking result.
- Be realistic about your expectations: Discuss your goals and expectations with your doctor, and make sure you both agree on what is achievable.
- Start small: If you’re new to injectables, it’s best to start with a smaller amount and gradually build up over time, if desired.
- Avoid over-treating: Over-treating can result in a frozen or unnatural appearance. Your injector should be able to provide a natural-looking result without over-treating.
- Follow post-treatment instructions: After your injectable treatment, follow the post-treatment instructions provided by your injector to ensure the best possible results.
- Wait to see the final results: It can take several days to see the full results of your injectable treatment, so wait to see the final results before deciding if you need additional treatment.
It is important to remember that the end goal of using any injectable is to enhance your natural appearance, not to completely change how you look. By following these tips and working with a qualified and experienced person, it is possible to achieve a natural-looking result that enhances your appearance and boosts your confidence.
Possible Reactions To Look Out For
Injectables are generally safe to use. However, any medical procedure will come with the risk of side effects. Here are some possible reactions to look out for with injectables:
- Bruising: Bruising is a common side effect of injectables, especially in areas where the skin is thin or easily bruised, such as around the eyes or mouth.
- Swelling: Swelling can occur after injectable use, especially around the injection site. This is usually mild and subsides within a few days.
- Pain: Some discomfort or pain may be experienced during the injection process, but this is typically mild and short-lived.
- Numbness: Numbness or tingling can occur after injectables, especially if the product is injected too close to a nerve.
- Infection: Infection is a rare side effect of injectables, but can occur if the injection site is not properly sanitized.
- Allergic Reaction: Allergic reactions to injectables are rare, but can occur if you have a sensitivity or allergy to one of the components of the product.
- Unsatisfactory Results: In some cases, injectables may not produce the desired results, or the results may not last as long as expected.
- Lumps or Asymmetry: Injectables can sometimes result in lumps or asymmetry, especially if the product is injected unevenly or too deeply.
- Migration: In some cases, the product may migrate from the injection site, resulting in unwanted results.
- Over-Treatment: Over-treatment with injectables can result in a frozen or unnatural appearance, so it’s important to be cautious and avoid over-treating.
It’s important to discuss your goals and expectations with your doctor to minimise the risk of side effects. If you experience any adverse reactions after your injectable treatment, it’s important to notify your doctor as soon as possible. In most cases, these side effects are temporary. It is only in rare cases that they require medical attention.
Scarring
While low risk, scarring is possible in some cases when using injectables. Scarring can occur if the person administering the injectable is inexperienced, or if the needle penetrates too deeply into the skin. Injectables are typically administered into the upper layers of the skin. If the needle goes too deep, it can damage the lower layers and result in scarring.
To minimise the risk of scarring , it’s important to choose a qualified and experienced doctor who is trained in proper injection techniques and familiar with the product being used. Your doctor will also take steps to minimise the risk of infection, such as using sterile needles and engaging in proper sanitation protocols.
Scarring is a rare side effect of injectables that most people do not experience. If you’re concerned about the possibility of scarring, it’s best to discuss your concerns with your doctor before proceeding with the treatment.
Muscle Atrophy
Muscle atrophy is a potential side effect of products like Botox in Singapore. Since Botox works by temporarily blocking the nerve signals that activate the muscles, it can result in muscle mass reduction over time when used too much.
To minimise this risk, it is important to use injectables in precise amounts, as directed by a qualified medical professional. The right dose and frequency of treatment will depend on your individual needs and goals.
If you notice that your muscles are starting to atrophy, you can reverse that side effects by taking a break from injectables or changing to treatments that do not affect the muscles. Physical therapy or other exercises to strengthen the affected muscles may also be recommended.
If you’re concerned about muscle atrophy or any other side effects from injectables, it’s best to discuss your concerns with your doctor.
Get A Good Doctor For Your Injectable Treatment
When it comes to using the right injectable for your skin, professionalism and experience are required for safe and effective treatment. Therefore, patients who wish to receive lasting treatment from injectables should undergo a detailed examination by a qualified doctor, who will then arrive at a suitable treatment option based on the patient’s skin type, skin condition and budget.
If you want to see better skin in the mirror every morning, SL Aesthetic Clinic can provide you with the necessary diagnosis and treatment to alleviate your condition. Call us at 62353246, or WhatsApp us at 98507112.