What is hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid is a hydrophilic protein found in the middle layer of facial skin (dermis), and contributes significantly to the hydration of the skin, its elasticity and collagen production, as well as to the swelling of certain areas that display tissue atrophy or asymmetry. Over time, the hyaluronic acid in the body decreases, resulting in the first signs of aging and fatigue, meaning wrinkles increase, become deep and intense, and the skin looks dehydrated and tired. Hyaluronic acid intervenes in the treatment of this condition, which is utilized either as a filler or as a mesotherapy.
The areas where hyaluronic acid treatment is applied are:
- around the eyes (crow’s feet)
- on the upper and lower lip
- on the eyebrows (glabella area), forehead, chin and around the mouth (expression wrinkles)
- under the eyes due to dark circles
- on the nose to improve the shape
- on the perimeter of the face
- on the neck
- at the neckline
- on the cheekbones, lips
- on the skin due to acne scars or an accident
- in the hands for a smooth look
- Who is it for?
Hyaluronic acid treatment is recommended to both men and women over the age of 30, when the first signs of aging, fatigue or intense expressiveness have begun to appear. However, it has been observed that an increasing percentage of younger people are undergoing treatment. This is due to the fast pace of daily life and the increased volume of professional, personal, and social obligations. Therefore, there is no age limit.
- Is the treatment painful?
Hyaluronic acid treatment is safe and relatively painless. The mild pain felt by the person concerned during the infusion of hyaluronic acid is limited with the anesthetic cream or local anesthesia. This way the solution is incorporated and mixed with the already existing hyaluronic acid of the body giving a radiant appearance.
- What complications may occur?
Hyaluronic acid injection is a safe method of smoothing the face and neck with a limited number of complications that can be combated. Complications or side effects that usually occur are edema, ecchymoses or redness in the injection point and more rarely an allergic reaction. It is worth noting that hyaluronic acid is a natural ingredient that already exists in the body.
- Is there a risk of deformity?
Of major importance is the correct choice of a specialized Plastic Surgeon who has a thorough knowledge of the anatomical areas in which the material is injected, as well as the high quality of the materials he uses.
- How long does the process last?
The process of treatment with hyaluronic acid lasts 30 – 40 minutes.
- How is the hyaluronic acid treatment conducted?
The points of interest are first identified, and the type of anesthesia agreed upon is applied. The Plastic Surgeon then injects the appropriate hyaluronic acid. There are different types – concentrations of hyaluronic acid depending on the area in which we want to intervene (e.g. cheekbones, lips, etc.). For example, a different type of hyaluronic acid is placed on the lips to the one in the cheekbone area to create volume. Finally, gentle massage is performed on the facial area to assimilate the solution evenly.
- What is the duration of the results?
The duration of the results depends on many factors such as age, the degree of muscle contraction, the amount and density of the material applied. Usually, however, the results last about 1 year, with some exceptions. In the area of the mouth it lasts 8 months due to the intense expressiveness and in the area of the cheekbones it lasts about 18 months because a strong amount of the material is injected.
- In how many days can one return to their daily activities?
At the end of the treatment the candidate can return to their activities undisturbed and following some medical instructions that will be indicated by the Plastic Surgeon. For a few days, a candidate needs to:
- avoid strenuous activity
- not lift weights or bend over
- not massage the area of interest
- consume enough fluids
- place ice at regular intervals
- When is it recommended to repeat the treatment with hyaluronic acid?
Depending on the personal needs and skin type of the candidate, the next session is scheduled on a calendar. Although hyaluronic acid lasts for a long time, it is advisable to renew the appointment every 5-6 months, so as not to weaken the radiant appearance of the skin and the vitality that the face emits. In this case the amount injected into the skin surface is very small.
- Results
The results of treatment with hyaluronic acid are immediate and long lasting. Specifically, their duration depends on many factors such as age, the degree of muscle contraction, the amount and density of the material applied. Usually, however, the results last about 1 year with some exceptions. The skin looks more radiant, relaxed and healthy. The signs of expressiveness, time and lifestyle fade and the face looks hydrated and exudes freshness.
- What if the result is not the desired one?
If the result is not up to par, then hyaluronidase is given. It is an enzyme that fights hyaluronic acid, which has been added by injection, converting it into amino acids. This makes it possible for them to be absorbed by the body. However, hyaluronidase is not indicated in all cases. Sometimes it may not be able to distinguish the extra hyaluronic acid from the natural one and it may be harmful to the body.