Mapping the Changes

Created on 12th January 2009

Cosmetic Surgery Magazine UK investigates how dermal fillers uch as Aquamid can be used to alter your facial appearance without going under the knife

For women who aren’t ready for invasive surgery, for those who are nervous of undergoing general anaesthetic or for younger women who don’t need  full facelift but wish to maintain their looks for longer, then
dermal fillers are increasingly viewed as a popular alternative. With longer lasting fillers such as Aquamid you can eliminate deeper wrinkles and folds or even contour the shape and balance of your face.

The science

Aquamid is a hydrogel that feels and behaves like it is a natural part of your own body. It consists of 97.5% water and 2.5% polyacrylamide and
becomes completely integrated with your body’s own tissue. Once injected in the tissue it continuously exchanges water between the hydrogel and the surrounding tissue. With time the gel becomes vascularised enabling access to the immune system.

The hydrogel does not contain any micro-particles, which means that the filling effect comes from the gel itself – not from a foreign body reaction to he micro-particles. Therefore, Aquamid does not create tissue hardening or fibrosis.

The gel is injected in thin strings with a fine needle. There is usually no need for anaesthesia; however a topical anaesthetic cream will reduce
any discomfort.

The viscosity of the Aquamid gel means that it adapts and integrates with the body’s tissue. This results in natural movement when the client smiles or talks

The safety record

Due to its consistency and its long lasting effects – which can last up to five years – even though administered by injection, doctors are treating it with the respect of a surgical procedure such as a cheek or chin implant. This is to minimise complications and maximise patient satisfaction.

Results of a five year study by Dr Stefano Piccolo on the safety and long term aesthetic results of Aquamid were presented at the annual meeting of The American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (APAS) in 2008.

The aesthetic outcome of the injections with Aquamid Hydrogel showed that more than 90% of the 116 patients evaluated after five years had “very good” or “good” aesthetic results and more than 90% of patients were “very satisfied” or “satisfied”. The safety data demonstrated that injections of Aqaumid over a period of five years was safe with few and no nexpected adverse effects.

One of the complications of any filler is infection. Infection is a risk with any product once the skin is broken. Aquamid has been studied extensively and all complications documented.

Dr Alan Kingdon has been using Aquamid in his Harley Street practise for eight years nd has treated over 300 patients. He says, “Aquamid is the only long-term filler I use and it is safe when used correctly with good results.

My clients are happy with the long lasting effects.