IMPORTANT TIPS ON USING THE MICROCANNULA FOR DERMAL FILLER INJECTIONS

Important Tips On Using The Microcannula For Dermal Filler Injections

In a recent article, we elaborated upon the major difference between cannula and needle for a dermal filler injection procedure. (Read our article on Dermal Filler: Cannula Vs Needle)

In today’s article, we will help to educate you further on essential tips and tricks for a successful dermal filler injection procedure using a microcannula.

What is a microcannula?

With medical, science and technological advancements, dermal fillers have proven to be powerful skin rejuvenating tools that make ageing and surgery optional. As filler formulas evolve, so do providers' techniques in administering them. And when it comes to injections, size matters. Currently, there are two ways to inject fillers- needles and microcannulas.

Typically finer and more prolonged than needles, microcannulas are hollow, flexible tubes that bend with pressure. But rather than having a sharp tip like traditional hypodermic needles used in most injection treatments, microcannulas have a blunt end that allows for precise fluid insertions while minimising tissue damage. The demand for using microcannulas for dermal filler procedures is rising as patients are satisfied with the minimal amount of bruising and inadvertent injections into vessels commonly known for needles. Patients are also happier with the minimal downtime that results from these procedures compared to procedures conducted with needles. It also has a lower risk of infection.

Advantages of using microcannulas for dermal fillers

A microcannula’s blunt tip, along with its flexible technique, provides several advantages over traditional needles, such as-

  • Fewer points of entry

The microcannula’s longer length allows it to reach more areas of the face without creating multiple entry points. Blunt-tipped microcannulas can use the same entry point to treat a larger area without additional needle pricks. This reduction in entry points greatly minimises discomfort and ensures continuous filler distribution in areas that are difficult to reach, such as the jaw.

  • High manoeuvrability

Microcannulas allow providers to perform procedures quickly and painlessly because of their overall flexibility.

  • More control during injections

A sharp-tipped needle quickly squeezes out filler during the injection. A blunt tip microcannula is inserted at an oblique angle to confine the filler into the desired area. It can also be kept under the dermal layer longer, allowing the aesthetician more control over the filler material distribution under the skin. This advantage is beneficial for specific target areas such as nasolabial folds. Aestheticians can feel any “resistance” occurring while using microcannulas, allowing them to avoid unnecessary damage to the skin’s underlying structures. This approach creates precise and natural-looking results.

  • Safer option

While sharp needles can pierce the facial veins and arteries below the soft facial skin, a blunt microcannula can push them aside, reducing the possibility of damage to the blood vessels and nerves. They cannot pierce any facial nerves either. This ensures that a cannula is a much safer option for dermal filler injection enhancement treatments than traditional needles.

  • Causes less pain

Multiple injections with sharp needles around the soft sensitive lips can be painful and uncomfortable. While a blunt microcannula under the skin can give a ‘pushing’ feeling, it is usually less uncomfortable or painful than the needles.

  • Minimal downtime

Sharp needles can cause severe bruising and swelling. However, a microcannula reduces the likelihood of swelling and bruising, along with the overall downtime and recovery for the patient. Therefore, the patient does not have to expect a significant reduction in quality of life during recovery.

Essential tips for using the microcannula

  • Consider how flexible it is

When selecting the best microcannula for the treatment procedure, check if the shaft has enough rigidity for precise placement and flexibility to move effortlessly around. A 30 or 27-gauge microcannula is more flexible than shorter ones or those with a lower gauge of 22.

  • Select the correct-sized microcannula

As you know, different parts of the face have different textures and consistency. Therefore it is prudent that the practitioner must be able to select the correct length, diameter, and flexibility.

Depending on the treatment area and your procedure, many different microcannula sizes are available. Research and choose the best ones for a successful cosmetic procedure.

  • Check how blunt the tip is

A microcannula does not damage the skin so much because it opens a clear path between the anatomic structure of the skin. Opt for one that is blunter so it is less likely to pierce vessels and cause less damage.

About IIWAM training in dermal filler treatments using microcannula

It is prudent that all Aesthetic practitioners undergo proper training in Aesthetic Medicine. The practitioner must balance between benefits & risks of the Aesthetic procedure and steps to mitigate complications if it occurs. At IIWAM, we call it understanding the procedure, the product, and the patient, and our trainers pay utmost attention to teaching the following subjects of injecting dermal filler using a microcannula under our best Cosmetology Courses.

  • What is the skin anatomy?

  • What are the principles of the dermal fillers injection procedure?

  • How to select a microcannula for dermal fillers?

  • What are the best methods & techniques for injecting dermal fillers using a microcannula?

  • What are some of the complications that Aesthetic Practitioners can encounter when using a microcannula?

  • How can Aesthetic Practitioners avoid the complications they encounter when using a microcannula?

  • How can Aesthetic Practitioners treat the complications when using a microcannula?

Apply for the best online aesthetic courses from IIWAM today.

About IIWAM Aesthetic Education

International Institute of Wellness & Aesthetic Medicine (https://www.iiwam.ac/education) is a private teaching institution that provides International Aesthetic Medical Certification programs for Doctors, Dentists, Nurses, Aestheticians, and Spa Owners. Prof Dr Morthy, the course director for the Institute, is a key opinion leader for Aesthetic Medicine in the region, and a trainer for several teaching institutions.

The International Institute of Wellness & Aesthetic Medicine (IIWAM) has academic affiliations with several countries, including Malaysia, Korea, Thailand, Philippines, Myanmar, Cambodia, India and Indonesia. With our insignia of “Be Certified & Be Recognized”, the Institute develops knowledgeable, skilled, and confident aesthetic practitioners of international repute.
IIWAM is the only Institute to have its Programs certified by City & Guilds of London, CPD Standards Office (UK) and  European International University (Paris). IIWAM is also a registered CPD Training provider for Malaysian Medical Association.

IIWAM also offers Cosmetic Procedures and Stem Cell treatment at IIWAM Wellness Centre (https://www.iiwam.ac/wellness) that are safe, effective, and affordable.