What is the treatment for?
Depending on the indication, a gel may restore lost volume, soften a hollow or fold, or define the lips or another facial contour, provided the change remains in balance with the face. Softer gels are used for fine lines and mobile areas; firmer gels more often provide structural support.
On its own, hyaluronic acid does not correct skin quality or marked skin laxity. Another treatment, or no treatment, may be more appropriate.
Who is it for?
For someone who wants to improve a specific point (loss of volume, fold, contour), or who comes without a clear request: the consultation also helps clarify what is possible. In both cases, the aim is a gradual, temporary result, not an exaggerated one.
Treatment may be deferred or declined in the case of a skin infection, pregnancy or breastfeeding, a known allergy to a component, an active autoimmune disease, or a medical situation that raises the risk. This list is not exhaustive. The judgement is medical.
Areas concerned
The face is the usual field. Not all of these areas are relevant for everyone. Some call for particular caution, especially around the eyes and the nose.
- Nasolabial folds and marionette lines: soften a fold, without trying to erase it.
- Cheeks: restore lost volume and support the middle third of the face.
- Lips: hydrate, define the border or restore balanced volume, with restraint.
- Temples: address hollowing that can give a tired appearance.
- Chin and jawline: structure a contour, rebalance a profile.
- Tear troughs: a delicate area, treated only when the anatomy is suitable.
- An area is treated only when this is appropriate for the anatomy and consistent with the goals agreed during consultation. Treating several areas on the same day is not an objective in itself.
How a session generally unfolds
The session is preceded by a discussion: history, current medication, expectations, and what the gel can and cannot do. The face is examined at rest and in movement. Photographs before treatment are generally taken for the medical file, as medico-legal documentation.
The skin is then cleaned and disinfected. Depending on the area, the gel is injected with a fine needle or cannula. A numbing cream, local anaesthetic or product containing anaesthetic may be considered. The agreed plan is followed and is not extended during the procedure without a clear reason.
The session is generally short compared with the consultation. The result is checked before you leave.
What kind of result
A change may be visible quickly, then settle as swelling recedes. The aim is a rested appearance that remains in harmony with the face.
No result can be guaranteed. Two people treated in the same area may respond differently. Photographs of other patients, when available, do not predict an individual result.
How it changes over time
The gel is resorbable, meaning the body gradually eliminates it. How long it seems to last depends on the product, the area, the amount, metabolism and expression. It is often a matter of months, sometimes longer. A calendar cannot be promised.
Repeating treatment too soon, or layering corrections, can produce a fixed appearance. Follow-up may also confirm that it is better to wait.
Possible after-effects
Redness, swelling, tenderness or bruising are possible and usually temporary, lasting from a few hours to a few days. An irregularity in the first days may be swelling, and should be reassessed before any adjustment.
Rare but serious complications exist, particularly vascular ones. Intense pain, blanching, an abnormal colour of the skin or a visual disturbance calls for urgent medical advice.
General precautions
Before the session, it helps to mention anticoagulants, infections (including cold sores), skin flares, a possible pregnancy and recent aesthetic or dental procedures. Nothing should be withheld in order to “be treated anyway”. A prescribed treatment is not stopped without medical advice.
Afterwards, the physician will explain what to avoid for a short time, which may include intense exercise, heat (strong sun, sauna or steam room), make-up, pressure or massage. These instructions are tailored to the individual.
Questions
Is the result immediate?
A change may be visible at once, but the first days often include swelling. The result is judged once the face has settled, when the swelling has eased.
Is hyaluronic acid a natural substance?
The molecule exists naturally in the skin. The gels used are synthetic preparations designed to be resorbed. That the molecule is present in the body does not rule out side effects, which are explained before the procedure.
Can the product be removed?
Some hyaluronic acid gels can be dissolved with an enzyme, in specific situations. That is neither trivial nor a reason to overcorrect. Dissolving is discussed if it becomes medically useful.
Is it painful?
The sensation varies with the area. The lips and the eye contour are often more sensitive. Everything is done to minimise pain.
Is this the same as a skinbooster?
No. Both use hyaluronic acid, but not for the same purpose. The gel described here is mainly about volume or a fold. Skinboosters have their own page, because their logic is different.
Prices
Prices are indicative. The treatment plan and exact quote are confirmed during consultation, according to the clinical indication.