In my last article, I wrote about safe, effective aesthetic treatments we offer in my office. I was asked many questions on how I could explain them in more detail. I’ll explain more about these treatments in this article. Why trust your treatments to anyone else for an important process that can change your life? Read on to learn why you shouldn’t take popular treatments for granted.
In 2022, the last data recorded, revealed that Americans spent over $11.8 billion on aesthetic procedures. That’s a huge amount of money, just here in the US. Of course, the data is not available yet for 2023, but I’m sure the figures will be even higher. I think it’s exciting that, both men and women, are considering aesthetic treatments to help them look as young as they feel. In my office I offer safe, yet very effective bespoke treatments that help patients look and feel younger in their regenerative journey. There are many popular mainstream treatments out there that patients take for granted but are not as safe and have detrimental side effects.
Let’s talk about cosmetic fillers, and what can go wrong.
These would include Hyaluronic fillers, including Juvéderm, Restylane, and others. I will compare these treatments to PRF, or Platelet Rich Fibrin, which we get from your own blood.
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a natural substance found in the human body, particularly in the skin, eyes, and connective tissues. It plays a crucial role in maintaining hydration, lubrication, and elasticity in tissues. When people refer to “real hyaluronic acid in the body,” they are typically talking about the endogenous or naturally occurring hyaluronic acid that the body produces.
This form of hyaluronic acid is involved in various physiological functions, such as joint lubrication, skin hydration, and tissue repair. On the other hand, hyaluronic polymers, like Juvéderm and Restylane often found in skincare products and medical treatments, are synthetic or modified versions of hyaluronic acid. These polymers are created to mimic the properties of natural hyaluronic acid and are used for various purposes, including cosmetic procedures, wound healing, and joint injections. They are not the body’s natural HA. The primary difference lies in the source and origin. “Real hyaluronic acid in the body” refers to the naturally occurring hyaluronic acid, while hyaluronic polymers are synthetic or modified versions used in various products and medical treatments.
While hyaluronic acid injectable fillers are generally safe when administered by qualified and experienced medical professionals, there are potential risks and side effects associated with their use. Most individuals who undergo hyaluronic acid filler injections don’t experience serious health issues. However, here are some reasons why these fillers may pose risks in certain situations: I will include information about PRF, which is explained later in this article.
Allergic Reactions: While hyaluronic acid is a substance naturally found in the body, some individuals may be allergic to the synthetic version used in fillers. Allergic reactions can range from mild irritation to more severe complications. These commercial fillers contain polymers of hyaluronic acid, and these can cause reactions in the body. They are not made of the exact components of our own hyaluronic acid. There is no chance of allergic reaction to your own blood with PRF.
Migration or Lumps: In some cases, the filler may migrate from the injection site or form lumps under the skin, leading to uneven or undesirable results. This can occur if the filler is not properly injected or if there is an inadequate amount of massaging to distribute the filler evenly. PRF does not leave lumps, as it is smoothed out immediately by the injector.
Overfilling or Underfilling: Improper injection techniques may lead to overfilling or underfilling, causing asymmetry or unnatural-looking results. PRF does not have lingering issues with overfilling.
Long-Term Effects: While hyaluronic acid fillers are considered temporary and can be reversed with an expensive hyaluronidase, an enzyme, in case of dissatisfaction or complications, there is still limited long-term data on the effects of repeated use over many years. PRF does not have long term issues that need hyaluronidase to break it down.
Nodule Formation: In some cases, nodules or granulomas can form at the injection site. These are small, firm lumps that may need additional treatment to resolve. PRF does not create nodules.
What’s the safe alternative?
PRF, or Platelet Rich Fibrin, (PRF) is your own blood, spun in a centrifuge to produce Platelet Rich Plasma, (PRP) then placed into an incubator, making a natural filler made from your own blood. This, in turn, helps build a collagen-based scaffolding within your skin to lift your skin naturally. It can be done in many parts of the body that need filling and lifting, without chemicals or surgery. In my office, we use special test tubes for the blood draw, that have real Hyaluronic Acid like what’s in our body, not chemical polymers, to produce the perfect combination of fibrin and HA to get the best results for your aesthetics or even your orthopedic conditions. We have special HA tubes for each application. Our office is one of the very few, if any, in Arizona that offers these specific treatments for both aesthetics and orthopedics.
In summary, the primary difference lies in the source and origin. “Real hyaluronic acid in the body” refers to the endogenous, naturally occurring hyaluronic acid, that is used in our treatments, while hyaluronic polymers are synthetic or modified versions used in various products and other medical treatments.
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For questions on any of my articles, please email me at [email protected].
Leisa-Marie Grgula, D.C.
Chiropractic Physician
Accurate Care Medical Wellness Center
18261 N. Pima Rd. Ste. # 115
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
480-584-3955
CaringPainRelief.com
