At Miami Skin and Vein, some of our most popular treatments include cosmetic injectables like dermal fillers, Sculptra, and neuromodulators (Botox, Dysport). These treaments are performed by Dr. Patel at our Coral Gables practice.
When it comes to dermal fillers, Dr. Patel will often utilize a flexible blunt tip microcannula to inject the filler. Cannulas can minimize bruising, swelling and discomfort from filler treatment by reducing tissue trauma during the treatment.
What microcannulas does Dr. Patel prefer to use:
Dr. Patel prefers to work with the following microcannulas:
DermaSculpt Microcannula
Softfill Precision Microcannula
What Is a Microcannula?
Both the Dermascupt and Softfill Precision microcannulas are flexible blunt tip "needles" that allow for minimal trauma injections. The cannula slides into the skin through a small entry site, causing minimal injury to the skin. It is safer than needles and decreases bruising often associated with cosmetic injectables.
The cannula is flexible, making it great for both superficial and deep injections. The injections are precise and the treatments are comfortable. Dr. Shaun Patel is an expert in the use of cannulas for filler injection and frequently trains other physicians and providers on their use.
What Treatments Are Microcannulas Used For?
Microcannulas are used to perform dermal filler treatments. They are a
particularly good way to administer dermal fillers to the undereye area because this part of the
face contains important blood vessels. However, cannula injections are also appropriate for many
other treatment areas.
Microcannulas can be used to inject popular fillers such as:
- Restylane
- Juvéderm
- Sculptra
Are There Any Side Effects From Using a Microcannula?
Microcannulas help minimize the side effects associated with dermal filler
treatments. They are safer than needles because they have blunt tips that slide under the skin
without causing trauma. As a result, they avoid damaging nerves or blood vessels. However, side
effects can still occur.
The most common side effects associated with microcannula injections include
mild swelling and bruising. You can reduce your risk by choosing a qualified provider and
following their treatment instructions. For example, you will need to avoid blood thinners
before your session.
What Is the Recovery Like After Microcannula Injections?
Microcannula injections typically involve a shorter and more manageable
recovery than traditional needle injections. Since the microcannula effectively reduces bruising
and swelling, you can return to your regular activities without accommodating very much social
downtime.
Let these instructions guide your recovery after microcannula
injections:
- Apply an ice pack to the treated area to
help reduce swelling - Avoid exercises that make your face flush
for 24 hours - Avoid saunas, hot tubs, and steam rooms
for 24 hours - Do not massage or rub the treated area
unless instructed to do so - Avoid unprotected UV exposure
Do Microcannula Injections Feel Different Than Needle Injections?
Microcannula injections tend to provide an experience that is considerably
more comfortable than traditional needle injections. Patients typically report feeling pressure
instead of pain.
Additionally, microcannulas can reach farther into the treatment area,
meaning fewer needle pricks are needed during a session. Sometimes, an entire region of the face
can be treated with just one or two skin entries. This one detail can make a big difference in
your comfort levels.
The sensation of the cannula moving through the treatment area can be strange
or unpleasant. Fortunately, numbing cream will reduce the sensations associated with these quick
injections.
Are Injections With Microcannulas Painful?
Injections with microcannulas are well-tolerated by most patients. The small,
flexible, and blunt-tipped nature of the cannula makes the treatment more comfortable than
needles.
What are the benefits of cannula for filler injection versus needles?
Since microcannulas are flexible and have a blunt rather then sharp tip, there is less tissue trauma. With less tissue trauma, we see the following benefits from cannula injection:
- Less bruising
- Less swelling
- Less downtime
- Minimal discomfort
- Lower risk of intravascular injection (theoretical)
Since the cannulas used are longer then typical needles for filler injections, fewer needle sticks are required per treatment zone.
Dr. Patel performs almost all undereye filler injections using a microcannula because he believes it is safer to use microcannula when injecting this part of the face which contains several important blood vessels. He also often uses a microcannula when treating the nasolabial folds, marionette lines, jawline, and eyebrows with filler.
In 2017, Restylane Silk, a popular lip filler, became the first filler ever approved by the FDA for injection using a microcannula. In 2018, Restylane Lyft became the first filler approved by the FDA for injection into the cheeks using a microcannula.
While the microcannula has many benefits, there are some instances where a traditional needle may be more appropriate. Dr. Patel will consider the specific filler being used, the treatment area, and the patient's aesthetic goals in order to select the best injection method.
In the video below, Dr. Patel performs an undereye filler treatment using Restylane and a microcannula to minimize bruising and swelling.
Visit Miami Skin and Vein for Microcannula Injections
Dr. Patel works closely with patients in his state-of-the-art practice to provide quality care and treatment. Using the latest technologies and techniques, as well as products approved by the FDA, Dr. Patel and his team ensure patients look and feel their best.
If you are interested in learning more about filler injections using a cannula, contact Miami Skin and Vein today at 786-618-5039 or book an appointment online.