HYALURONIC ACID INJECTION

What is hyaluronic acid ?

Hyaluronic acid is a component of the skin and contributes to hydration and skin density.
It is a biodegradable gel whose lifespan varies between six and twelve months, depending on the injection site and the product used. It is biocompatible (identical to what we naturally have), which ensures safety and the absence of rejection. It has become one of the flagship products in aesthetic medicine.

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Key Points

Hyaluronic acid injections in Geneva

Hyaluronic acid injections visibly reduce age-related changes. Biocompatible and biodegradable, hyaluronic acid has become the leading product in facial and body rejuvenation treatments, as it fills wrinkles and fine lines without surgery.

The skin is plumped for a true rejuvenation effect. With minimal side effects and immediate results, hyaluronic acid injections are a proven technique, performed at Doctor Valeria Romano’s clinic in Geneva.

What are the effects of hyaluronic acid ?

  • Intense skin hydration : hyaluronic acid attracts and retains water, providing deep and lasting hydration.
  • Anti-aging and age-prevention action.
  • Volumizing and filling properties.
  • Anti-wrinkle and anti-fold properties.
  • Improvement of skin irregularities..
  • Enhancement of facial contours and proportions..
  • Collagen stimulator : hyaluronic acid stimulates the activity of skin cells.
  • Wrinkle and fine line filling..
  • Volume restoration : hyaluronic acid restores volume to areas of the face that have lost it, such as the cheeks or lips.
  • Improved skin elasticity : by stimulating collagen production, hyaluronic acid contributes to skin firmness and suppleness.
  • Repairing effect : hyaluronic acid promotes healing and cellular regeneration.

What are the indications for hyaluronic acid injections ?

Hyaluronic acid injections are an aesthetic medicine treatment used to treat wrinkles, reshape volumes, lift the face and treat the skin. Here are the indications.

Skin hydration and revitalization

deep hydration of the skin by injection of hyaluronic acid

All types of hyaluronic acid contribute to skin hydration. However, the  Skinbooster is a hyaluronic acid exclusively designed for this indication. The product's particles are very small (to avoid creating volume) and have a very high hydrophilic capacity.
The result is a Skin Radiance effect, more hydrated and toned skin, and the disappearance of any crepey appearance.

Wrinkle filling

Depending on the type of wrinkle — particularly its location and depth — different types of hyaluronic acids will be used. However, for this indication, Doctor Romano never selects very volumizing products that could swell the face or create unsightly lumps.
It is important to note that wrinkles accompanied by a deep epidermal break will be improved but not erased. Expression lines are treated with botulinum toxin injections.

Intimate area

image hyaluronic acid intimate area

The treatment of changes affecting the intimate area is becoming an increasingly common request in aesthetic medicine. Hyaluronic acid is used to augment theG-spotlabia majora , and to treat vaginal dryness.
The result is immediate and lasts one year. Injections are painless and the after-effects minimal.

Restoration or creation of volumes on the face and hands

For volume creation, a volumizing hyaluronic acid is used. This product contains relatively large particles that allow for tissue lifting.
Doctor Romano selects gels with very low hydrophilic properties to avoid puffiness or temporary swelling (for example due to salt intake or air travel).
In young patients, it often involves creating facial volume : lips, cheekbones, chin, nose…
After the age of thirty, it is important to perform medical lifting techniques to reposition volumes that shift over time, and then enhance them.

When should you opt for hyaluronic acid injections ?

Since its discovery in 1934, hyaluronic acid has been used in the medical field to treat many conditions (ENT, neurology, etc.). In aesthetic medicine, it has been successfully used since 1990. Patients using this anti-aging technique can rest assured. It is a medical device certified with CE marking and subject to strict traceability.

A plumped and visibly rejuvenated face

From the first signs of aging, hyaluronic acid injections help to reduce them. Over time, the amount of naturally present hyaluronic acid decreases, the skin loses elasticity, and the “baby skin” effect disappears. Anti-wrinkle creams are no longer enough.
Hyaluronic acid injections compensate for the volume loss caused by aging, but also help reshape the facial contour and smooth the skin. Wrinkles and fine lines are diminished, and skin texture visibly improved.
Moreover, hyaluronic acid is recognized for its hydrating properties. With injections, the skin becomes firmer, more hydrated, and the face appears plumped and visibly rejuvenated.

For the body and the face

  • Volumizing product to fill hollows : tear troughs, scars, nasolabial folds…
  • Volumizing product to create volume : cheekbones, lips…
  • Lifting product : facial lift, brow lift…
  • Product for adding volume to certain body areas : buttocks, calves…
  • Product for densifying and rejuvenating the skin.
  • Beautiphication product for the face (enhancing beauty and attractiveness) : profiloplasty, masculinization, feminization…

A reshaped body

Hyaluronic acid injections can also be used to reshape certain areas of the body. Its plumping effect makes it possible to achieve the desired curves, such as fuller, lifted buttocks or firmer calves…
The silhouette is aesthetically improved. The benefits of this treatment are felt on a physical, psychological, and emotional level.

Acide hyaluronique et toxine botulique : quelles différences ?

L’acide hyaluronique et la toxine botulique ont deux traitements populaires en médecine esthétique, mais ils agissent de manière différente.
L’acide hyaluronique est utilisé principalement pour combler les rides, redonner du volume et hydrater la peau. Il est injecté directement dans les zones qui présentent l’inesthétisme à traiter.
La toxine botulique, en revanche, est un relaxant musculaire qui agit en bloquant les signaux nerveux aux muscles. Il est idéal pour lisser les rides dynamiques, comme celles du front ou des pattes d’oie. Ce produit n’est pas injecté directement dans la ride mais dans le muscle dont la contraction cause la ride.
It lasts less than hyaluronic acid: Botox lasts six months, hyaluronic acid one year.

Which is better between botulinum toxin and hyaluronic acid ?

Attention à ne pas confondre acide hyaluronique et toxine botulique. Ces deux produits ont des propriétés, des spécificités et des applications différentes. 
Ainsi, la toxine botulique, dont la mise sur le marché date de 2003, est utilisée pour le traitement des rides d’expression. La toxine botulique agit en bloquant la contraction des muscles responsables de ces rides qui sont ainsi effacées.
Hyaluronic acid, which is naturally present in our bodies, is used to smooth out static wrinkles, lift tissues and add volume.

How does a hyaluronic acid injection session take place ?

How does a hyaluronic acid injection session actually go ? A preliminary consultation is scheduled to define the expected result for the patient.

The hyaluronic acid injection is performed at the clinic after taking photographs.
The procedure is relatively quick, lasting about twenty minutes, and no anesthesia is needed.
The suggested result is a natural one, but the patient's preferences and wishes are respected.
Facial analysis requires an experienced eye with knowledge of the rules of harmony and beauty.

photo of hyaluronic acid session in Geneva

On disinfected skin, several injection techniques can be used :

  • The technique used : bolus, fanning, linear threading, retrotracing.
  • The product used : products vary in viscosity, firmness, volumizing effect, and hydrophilicity.
  • The depth of injection : mid dermis, superficial dermis, deep dermis, superficial subcutaneous, deep subcutaneous, deep fat, periosteal.
  • The quantity of product used per injection point.
  • The tool used : needle or cannula (a needle with a rounded tip). 


Once the injection is done, a massage with a moisturizing cream is performed to even out the result and distribute the product properly.

Precautions after hyaluronic acid injection

After the injection, certain instructions must be followed. 

For 48 hours 

  • Do not take anti-inflammatory.
  • Avoid prolonged or intense exposure to the sun or extreme cold.
  • Do not engage in intense physical activity.
  • Do not go to a sauna or steam room.

For one week 

  • Avoid facial cleansing treatments.
  • Do not apply harsh products to the skin.

For one month

  • Do not undergo laser, radiofrequency, or ultrasound treatments on the injected area.

What are the contraindications of hyaluronic acid ?

hyaluronic acid precautions

To avoid any risk of complications, certain contraindications must be strictly respected. Hyaluronic acid injections are not permitted in the following cases :

  • Damaged or infected skin in the injection area.
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding.
  • Hepatitis C.
  • Autoimmune diseases.
  • Presence of a non-resorbable product in the injection area.
  • Prise d’anti-coagulants (cette contre-indication n’est pas absolue). 

What are the side effects of hyaluronic acid injections?

Side effects are minor and temporary. They do not require social downtime, as they are limited in both intensity and duration. Because hyaluronic acid is naturally present in the body, the risks are extremely low, and most patients tolerate the injections very well. The product's biocompatible and biodegradable nature eliminates the need for allergy testing.

The side effects that may be observed after a session are :

  • Swelling (edema) around the lips and tear troughs. This temporary phenomenon can be prevented and treated with Solupred and Extranase. It is advisable to schedule lip and tear trough injections on Fridays.
  • Bruising is rare but possible, especially on thin skin. It can be prevented and treated with homeopathy (Arnica 5CH).
  • In case of herpes, taking Aciclovir is recommended to prevent a new outbreak after injection.

At what age can you start hyaluronic acid injections ?

There is no minimum age. Nowadays, even minors (accompanied by at least one parent and with written consent from both parents) may receive injections.

Depending on the indication, the starting ages vary :

  • For intimate injections : throughout one’s sexual life.
  • For facial beautification and certain morphological modifications (e.g. lips), women often start in their twenties.
  • For wrinkles and skin revitalization : around thirty. Starting treatment as soon as the first signs of aging appear provides better results.
  • For more advanced changes (e.g. hand or neck aging) : around fifty.

Where are hyaluronic acid injections most commonly performed ?

Hyaluronic acid injections most frequently performed are :

 

Hyaluronic acid results : before / after hyaluronic acid injections

The result is immediate.
As for duration : depending on the product’s cross-linking and firmness, the injection site, and the quantity used, the result can last between six and twelve months.
For certain indications, such as the lips or upper eyelids, swelling may appear after the injection. You’ll need to wait one week before seeing the final result.
The skin is more hydrated and plumped, volume is restored, and the face is enhanced.

Quel est le prix d’une injection d’acide hyaluronique ?

Hyaluronic acid : what is the price of a session ? Convinced by its effectiveness, are you considering a hyaluronic acid injection ? Is the price fixed in advance ?
Dr. Valéria Romano welcomes you at her practice in Geneva. A first consultation helps better understand your expectations and define the necessary injections to achieve the desired results. The price of one syringe of hyaluronic acid depends on the indication.
The standard price of one syringe of hyaluronic acid in Geneva is 600 CHF for most indications.
Depending on the anatomical area and the complexity of the procedure, the price may vary between 650 CHF and 900 CHF per syringe. This variation reflects both the technical skill required, the duration of the procedure, and the specific nature of the product used (for example, some gels that are denser or longer-lasting are more expensive).
The total cost also depends on the number of syringes used. The number needed is determined during the initial consultation, based on aesthetic needs, facial morphology, and the desired outcome. It is not uncommon for multiple syringes to be indicated for a harmonious full-face treatment, but the approach remains progressive and tailored.
Hyaluronic acid injections are a full-fledged medical procedure. The price therefore reflects the product’s quality, the physician’s expertise, and the safety conditions in which the treatment is performed.

Hyaluronic acid injection reviews

Patient reviews of hyaluronic acid injections are generally positive, although experiences may vary based on several factors. Satisfaction largely depends on the skill of the doctor and realistic expectations of the results.
Many patients appreciate the visible aesthetic benefits : improved firmness and hydration of the skin, reduced wrinkles and fine lines. They also value the fact that injections are relatively quick and minimally painful, requiring no recovery time.
Minor and temporary side effects (redness, slight swelling, and bruising) are generally well tolerated.

Hyaluronic acid creams vs. injections : which is better?

Les crèmes à base d’acide hyaluronique et les injections d’acide hyaluronique sont bénéfiques pour la peau, mais les effets et les applications sont différents.

Creams hydrate the skin's surface, temporarily improving its appearance and texture. They are ideal for daily use and for maintaining superficial skin hydration. However, they do not penetrate deeply, do not fill wrinkles, and do not restore volume. Creams are a useful addition to a skincare routine.
Injections deliver immediate and longer-lasting results. They offer a significant anti-aging effect, fill wrinkles, and restore volume. For visible and effective rejuvenation, hyaluronic acid injections are the right choice.

Is hyaluronic acid dangerous ?

L’acide hyaluronique est un produit naturellement présent dans le corps humain, utilisé en médecine esthétique pour ses propriétés hydratantes et volumatrices. Lorsqu’il est injecté par un médecin qualifié et expérimenté, l’acide hyaluronique est sans danger et bien toléré. Cependant, comme tout traitement, des effets secondaires peuvent survenir, tels que des rougeurs, des ecchymoses ou un léger gonflement au site d’injection.

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Where can I find natural hyaluronic acid?

Natural hyaluronic acid is found in the body's connective tissues, particularly in the skin, joints and eyes. It is also present in certain foods such as bone broth, green leafy vegetables, soya and citrus fruits. For medical and aesthetic applications, hyaluronic acid is often produced chemically, which guarantees optimum purity and compatibility with the human body.

The Tyndall effect, the temporary blue colour of the skin after a hyaluronic acid injection, can diminish over time. This effect is generally caused by an injection that is too superficial or by poor technique. It is important to consult an experienced doctor to avoid this inconvenience. The Tyndall effect takes years to disappear.

To prolong the effects of hyaluronic acid injections, it is advisable to :

  • Have a good skincare routine.
  • Maintain good skin hydration.
  • Protect the skin against external aggressions such as UV rays.
  • Avoid tobacco and alcohol.
  • A balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.
  • Inject regularly, following the treatment plan suggested by your injecting doctor.

Hyaluronic acid injections are gradually and naturally reabsorbed over time, as hyaluronic acid is broken down by the body. Over the months, the gel is metabolised and the effects gradually diminish. 

Several factors can influence the durability of hyaluronic acid injections, including the quality and quantity of the product used, the injection technique and the patient's individual metabolism. Intense physical activity and certain lifestyle habits, such as saunas and steam baths, can accelerate its degradation. A consultation with an experienced doctor can help optimise the results and duration of the effects.

Although hyaluronic acid injections are generally safe, risks and side effects can occur: redness, bruising, temporary swelling. If the injections are carried out by an inexperienced doctor or a non-medical professional, more serious complications are possible: infections, necrosis, granulomas. Hence the importance of consulting an experienced, qualified doctor.

The time between two hyaluronic acid injections depends on the area treated, the patient's anatomy and the type of product used. In general, it is recommended to wait at least six months before repeating the injection. The doctor will be able to recommend a specific interval depending on your morphology and your aesthetic goals.

The hyaluronic acid injected is not permanent. It breaks down naturally in the body, being metabolised and eliminated. The effects last between six and twelve months, depending on the type of hyaluronic acid used and the area treated. Regular injections are necessary to maintain the results.

If carried out by an experienced doctor, hyaluronic acid injections are virtually painless. The product contains an anaesthetic. An anaesthetic cream may be applied to minimise pain, but this is often not necessary.

Before the injections, it is advisable to avoid medicines and supplements that thin the blood to reduce the risk of bruising: aspirin, ibuprofen and vitamin E. A doctor's advice is required before stopping any medication. 

Hyaluronic acid injections are contraindicated during pregnancy. However, a woman who undergoes injections without knowing that she is pregnant can be reassured. Injections are not carried out during pregnancy as a precautionary measure.

Breast-feeding women should express their milk before injections.

Normal activities can be resumed immediately after the injection. The only exception is the lips, which may swell considerably.
However, it is advisable to avoid sport and excessive exposure to the sun for twenty-four hours. Patients often use these techniques during their lunch break or before going to work.

Highly cross-linked and very dense hyaluronic acid lasts longer than less cross-linked versions. This type of product is used to add volume or for lifting techniques.

Hyaluronic acid injections may cause some temporary swelling immediately after treatment, which disappears within a few days. The aim of the injections is to restore lost volume and improve facial contours in a natural way. A qualified practitioner will take care to avoid excessive swelling.

Yes, the hyaluronic acid injected breaks down and is reabsorbed by the body over time. The effects of the injections are therefore temporary. Maintenance sessions are necessary to maintain the results.

Hyaluronic acid is injected to fill in wrinkles, restore lost volume and hydrate the skin.

It is strongly recommended not to smoke for two days following a hyaluronic acid injection. Smoking can interfere with the healing process and cause side effects. It reduces tissue oxygenation, increases inflammation and reduces the duration of results.
Tobacco is harmful to your health.

Doctors are the only professionals authorised to carry out injections. 

It is advisable to sleep on your back with your head slightly elevated the first night after an injection, as this reduces swelling. Sleeping in another position does not influence the result and does not cause the product to move.

Les acides hyaluroniques très réticulés et très volumateurs durent le plus longtemps, souvent jusqu’à 12 à 18 mois.

Tout dépend de l’indication et de l’anatomie du patient. En général les alternatives sont : les injections de toxine botulique, les produits de comblement inducteurs de collagène tels que le Radiesse et le Sculptra, les lasers, les peelings chimiques et la radiofréquence.

Les effets des injections d’acide hyaluronique sont visibles immédiatement après le traitement. Cependant, le résultat est optimal une à deux semaines après.

Pour minimiser les risques de bleus, il vaut mieux éviter certains suppléments (vitamine E, ginkgo biloba) pendant une semaine avant et après l’injection.

Anticoagulants, antiaggregants and anti-inflammatories must be stopped with the agreement of the prescribing doctor.
Taking Arnica the day before the injection may be helpful.
The frequency of bruising depends on the experience of the injecting doctor.  

Les boules peuvent se former si l’acide hyaluronique n’est pas correctement réparti ou si le produit migre. Il s’agit d’une faute technique. L’acide hyaluronique correctement injecté ne fait pas de boules.

This is a false belief. It is advisable to hydrate properly. Drinking more does not change the result.

Le massage de la zone injectée n’est généralement pas recommandé. Le massage pourrait déplacer le produit.

Il est conseillé d’attendre au moins 24 heures avant de se maquiller.

Pour éviter toute pression ou mouvement excessif sur la zone traitée, il est recommandé d’attendre 24 à 48 heures avant d’embrasser.

To reduce bruising, apply cold compresses to the area.
Des crèmes à base d’arnica ou de vitamine K peuvent être utilisées pour accélérer le processus.

To reduce swelling, apply cold compresses to the treated area for 10 to 15 minutes at regular intervals. Avoid strenuous physical activity and keep your head elevated when sleeping. Taking bromelain speeds up the process.

Pour entretenir les résultats, hydratez régulièrement votre peau et utilisez des soins adaptés. Évitez l’exposition excessive au soleil et aux chaleurs intenses (sauna et hammam) et consultez votre médecin pour des traitements d’entretien réguliers, généralement tous les 6 à 12 mois.

Les injections d’acide hyaluronique peuvent être moins efficaces en raison d’une peau très épaisse, d’une dégradation rapide du produit ou d’une technique d’injection inadaptée. Pour des bons résultats il faut donc consulter un médecin expérimenté.

Pour faire disparaître les boules après une injection d’acide hyaluronique, des massages légers peuvent aider. Si elles persistent, le médecin évaluera si les masser ou faire une retouche.

Bien injecté, l’acide hyaluronique reste en place. Il est important de faire appel à un médecin expérimenté qui identifie les bonnes indications, injecté le bon produit (il existe une variété d’acides hyaluronique en fonction de l’indication), au bon endroit (il existe différentes profondeurs d’injection), en bonne quantité.

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