Cosmetic Surgery & Beauty #72

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fillers will obtain the best result. ‘As we age, the whole face
ages – there are priority areas but, essentially, the entire
face is subject to ageing.’ Dr Liew explains.
‘Gone are the days where patients come in and ask
to have their nasolabial folds filled and that’s enough. We
now know that treating the nasolabial folds will not change
the patient’s overall appearance. We want to address and
harmonise the face as a whole so the patient will look the
best for their age at any age. Through communication,
understanding and education, together the patient and
practitioner can create some truly spectacular results.’
The benefits
of HA
The longevity of results with HA dermal fillers can
last anywhere between 6-18 months and beyond,
depending on the amount of filler injected, the
depth of injection and the level of movement at
the injection site. The duration of the result is also
affected by the extent of cross-linking between the
hyaluronic acid chains, as well as the concentration
and size of the HA particles themselves.
Increased cross-linking and higher HA
concentrations boost the viscosity and elasticity
of the dermal filler. This extends the longevity of
the result. Larger HA particles, alongside higher
concentrations, tend to absorb more water and
result in more tissue swelling following injection,
also increasing the duration of effect.
‘I prefer to use HA-based fillers because
hyaluronic acid is versatile, long-lasting and
effective,’ Dr Liew explains. ‘It also comes in a variety
of grades to cater for the different requirements of
every patient.’
‘The other benefit of using HA fillers is that, in
the rare occasion where there is a minor adverse
reaction such as swelling or lumpiness following
injection, the HA can be easily dissolved with a
chemical called hyaluronidase. This works almost
immediately and acts as a lifeboat, or a safeguard,
in case the outcome is not as good as we like,’ Dr
Liew adds.
Hyaluronic acid is a substance that occurs
naturally in the body. It is associated with attracting
and maintaining hydration in the skin. For this
reason, the benefits of dermal fillers are doublefold
– adding volume and attracting hydration at
the same time.
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