Types of Injectables: Know the Difference

What are the differences between the different injectable products offered by The Lotus Institute. This article covers the three main injectable products used by our cosmetic clinic – muscle relaxants, absorbable fillers and non-absorbable fillers.

What are muscle relaxants and how do they work?

Muscle relaxants are not used to fill lines. Instead, they work by temporarily stopping the muscles that create wrinkles from working, which has results in the softening of lines and helps prevent new lines from forming. The most common areas treated by muscle relaxants are mid forehead, frown lines, horizontal forehead creases and the crow’s feet or smile lines around the eyes. The results of muscle relaxants usually last three to four months. 

What are the main concerns with using muscle relaxants for reducing wrinkles on the face?

• Appropriate selection of injection points
• Possible drooping of the muscles

What are absorbable fillers and what are they used for?

Absorbable fillers are mainly used in fine lines on the surface of the skin, subcutaneously (under the skin) and in the deeper tissues of the face. This is why different thicknesses can be injected. The most common treatment areas are in the forehead, marionette lines and nasolabial folds to reduce lines, in the cheeks and lips to add volume and to reshape the nose, chin and jawline. The results of absorbable fillers usually last six to 12 months for products injected on the surface and up to two years for products injected deeply.

What are the main concerns with using absorbable fillers?

• Infection
• Absorbable fillers must be performed by experienced professionals for successful results

What are non-absorbable fillers?

Non-absorbable fillers are only used subcutaneously (under the skin), not on the surface layers of the skin. These fillers are often referred to as an injectable implant. The most common treatment areas are in the cheeks, jawline, chin, nasolabial folds and nose. The results of non-absorbable fillers usually last a minimum of five years+.

What are the main concerns with using non-absorbable fillers as an anti-wrinkle treatment?

• Infection
• Possible inflammatory response
• Non-absorbable fillers may not be suitable for all patients, correct patient selection should be observed 
• Non-absorbable fillers must only be performed by experienced, trained injectors in order ensure correct placement and that safe protocols are followed. 

To learn more about the most suitable facial anti-wrinkle treatment for you, contact The Lotus Institute on (07) 5509 4488.

Author: Nurse injector, Patricia Hampson