Choices in permanent
facial fillers have been limited after the makers of Artefill filed for bankruptcy in December 2008. However, another injectable called Aquamid may fill the need for permanent fillers in the United States. Aquamid is currently under FDA review for the treatment of facial wrinkles including nasolabial folds and for treating facial lipoatrophy (facial sagging).
The treatment is designed to produce natural-looking results, and is unlike the hyaluronic acid fillers on the market. Here’s a close look at the benefits and drawbacks of Aquamid facial fillers:
How Aquamid Works
Aquamid is comprised of just two compounds – a hydrogel that’s made of 97.5% water, and a polyacrylamide gel. The polyacrylamide gel is a soft, pliable substance that works as a thickening agent in the filler. It’s also a natural neurotoxin and helps to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and deep lines significantly.
Key Benefits of Aquamid Facial Fillers
Aquamid is designed to reduce lines and wrinkles in around the lips, cheeks and jawline, and can help to recontour the face after extreme fat loss. In addition to treating wrinkles, the FDA may approve Aquamid for facial augmentation purposes. Some of the key benefits of Aquamid facial fillers include:
- Natural looking results
- No micro-particles present in the gel
- Does not cause tissue hardening or fibrosis
- Is easily adapted by surrounding tissues
- Leaves skin smooth and silky without noticeable lumps
- No animal collagen or animal products
- No risk of allergic reactions common with other fillers
Aquamid can be used in the following areas: worry lines between the eyebrows, enhancing the structure of the nose, restoring volume to the cheekbone area, filling out and enhancing the lips (lip enhancement), enhancing the chin, and contouring the jaw line. The filler can be used on both men and women of all skin types, and results are immediate.
Drawbacks of Aquamid Facial Fillers
While there are several benefits of Aquamid facial fillers, the injectable does have some risks and side effects. Some of the most common side effects of this filler include: temporary redness, swelling at the injection site, temporary bruising, migration of the filler and a condition known as granuloma. It is very important that patients get their treatment from a licensed and experienced professional, or they run the risk of discomfort, pain and unwanted side effects.
Aquamid is currently available in Europe and other parts of the world, and is still awaiting FDA approval in the United States. The full effect of this filler is obtained immediately and clinical studies have shown that results can be maintained without retreatment for several years. A clinical study in six European countries showed that patient satisfaction was as high as 90% five years after treatment. As of 2009, more than 300,000 injections have been administered successfully worldwide.