I had a training with a “master injector” this past November. She flew up from LA and showed me how to inject filler using a cannula.
Using cannulas is not new to me- I use cannulas to inject fat into the face all the time. But using a cannula to inject the HA fillers is something that people have varying opinions about. I like the idea- using a blunt tipped injection should cause less bruising. The cannulas used for the filler are different than those used for fat. These are disposable and softer than the ones I use for fat transfer. Before I started to use the new cannulas in patients to inject fillers (like Restylane, Refyne, Defyne, and Juvederm), I wanted to see a trainer do it, learn the little tricks of the cannula, and see if it really makes a difference. Yes. We are all always learning new tricks and pearls.
What I found:
- I really liked it for doing injections into the superficial lines– think the gills in the cheek, the eleven between the brows. It worked beautifully, particularly with Refyne.
- I really like it in the hand as well. For those of you with really veiny, thin hands, a little plump makes them look much younger.
- There are differences between cannulas- when I used the one sent to me by the filler company, it was not as good as the one the trainer used. So I ordered those. They are pricey, but I think worth it.
- There was only one entry point for a lot of injections, and most did not bruise. (though it wasn’t completely bruise free). It had less bruising when done superficially in the skin than with a needle.
- Cannulas are not great for all types of injections. For the cheeks and lips, I am still using a needle.
So if you want to try the cannula, come on in! I like it.
