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Medical cosmetic procedures in Geneva

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Medical cosmetic procedures in Geneva

When do you the effects of a hyaluronic acid injection become visible ?

Hyaluronic acid is an increasingly popular solution for those seeking to reduce the signs of aging, improve skin hydration, or restore facial volume. However, one question often comes up among patients considering this type of treatment : “When can the effects of a hyaluronic acid injection be seen ?” This article answers that question in detail, exploring the factors that influence how quickly results appear, the recovery process, and what to expect after a hyaluronic acid injection.

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Mechanism of action of hyaluronic acid

Before discussing the timing of results, it is essential to understand what hyaluronic acid is and how it works. Hyaluronic acid is a molecule naturally present in the human body, playing a crucial role in hydration and skin structure. In aesthetic medicine, it is primarily used in gel form to be injected in order to fill wrinkles, restore volume to areas of the face that have lost it, and improve the overall quality of the skin.Hyaluronic acid works by attracting water to the treated area, giving the skin a fresh and youthful appearance.
Hyaluronic acid works by attracting water to the treated area, giving the skin a fresh and youthful appearance.

Timeframe for visible results after a hyaluronic acid injection

Generally, the effects of hyaluronic acid injections are visible immediately after treatment. However, the final result can only be fully assessed after a few days to a few weeks. Here is an overview of the process.

  • Immediate effect : right after the injection, patients can already see a noticeable improvement, as the product instantly fills wrinkles or lifts the face. However, these initial results are affected by slight swelling or temporary redness, which are normal reactions to the injection.
  • The first few days : in the days following the injection, you may feel slight tenderness or experience minor bruising around the treated area. These mild side effects generally subside within a few days, revealing a more natural result.
  • Optimal result : the final result is often visible between 7 and 14 days after the injection, once the hyaluronic acid has fully integrated into the tissues and the initial swelling has subsided.

Factors influencing the time it takes for hyaluronic acid injection results to appear

Several factors can influence how quickly the effects of a hyaluronic acid injection become visible.

  • The type of hyaluronic acid used : there are various types of hyaluronic acid, which differ in consistency, concentration, and degree of cross-linking (chemical bonding of the molecules). A thicker product, designed to restore volume in areas such as the cheeks, may take more time to show its final results. Conversely, a less cross-linked and less volumizing product, such as those used for superficial wrinkles, may act more quickly.
    Skinbooster is a hyaluronic acid designed for skin hydration, while Hyacorp is a hyaluronic acid used for body injections , such as buttock enhancement.
  • The treated area : certain facial areas respond more quickly to hyaluronic acid injections. For example, lips tend to swell rapidly, but once the swelling goes down, the final results appear more quickly than in other areas of the face.
  • The patient's metabolism : each patient reacts differently to injections based on their metabolism. Individuals with a faster metabolism may see results sooner, although the effects may also fade more quickly.
  • Injector’s technique : the expertise of the doctor performing the injection is crucial to achieving optimal results. An experienced doctor will know how to select the right technique and product for each patient to ensure maximum efficacy and a natural result.

Recovery process after a hyaluronic acid injection

Recovery after a hyaluronic acid injection is usually quick and without major complications. However, to optimize results and minimize the risk of side effects, it is important to follow some post-treatment recommendations :

  • Avoid intense activity : within 24 to 48 hours following the injection, it is advisable to avoid intense physical activities and exposure to heat (saunas, hot baths) to reduce swelling and redness.
  • Do not touch or massage the treated area : it is important not to touch or massage the area to avoid displacing the product and to allow it to integrate smoothly into the tissues.
  • Avoid sun exposure : direct exposure to strong sunlight and UV rays should be avoided for at least one week to prevent pigmentation and other skin reactions, and to avoid product displacement.
  • Hydrate and care for the skin : it is recommended—but not mandatory—to apply a gentle moisturizing cream, and possibly a soothing cream, to help calm the skin.

Results of hyaluronic acid injections : what to expect

Results of hyaluronic acid injections vary depending on the treated area and the patient’s specific needs. Here's what to expect for different facial areas.

  • lips : the effect of hyaluronic acid injections in the lips is visible immediately, although swelling may last a few days. Final results generally appear after one week : lips are plumper, more hydrated, and natural.
  • cheeks : cheek enhancement results are visible immediately, but become optimal around two weeks later, once swelling has subsided.
  • dark circles : treatment provides an instant improvement, but the final result usually appears after 2 to 3 weeks. This delicate area requires a slightly longer period for inflammation to subside and for the product to integrate.
  • wrinkles , marionette lines and nasolabial folds : results are immediately visible after injection but may continue to evolve slightly in the following weeks. The final result is a younger, more rested appearance.
  • contouring through facelift and enhancement. 

How long do hyaluronic acid injection results last ?

The duration of hyaluronic acid injection results depends on several factors : the type of product used, the treated area, the patient’s metabolism, and the injection technique. In general :

  • For mobile areas (such as lips), results may last 6 to 9 months.
  • For less mobile areas (such as cheeks or nasolabial folds), results may last 12 to 18 months.
  • For nearly immobile areas, results typically last between 12 and 36 months.

These durations are average estimates and may vary from one patient to another.

How to prolong the effects of hyaluronic acid injections ?

To extend the results of hyaluronic acid injections, it is recommended to :

  • Hydrate your skin regularly : hyaluronic acid is a hydrating agent, and maintaining good hydration helps maximize its effects.
  • Protect your skin from the sun : UV rays can speed up the breakdown of hyaluronic acid. Using sunscreen is therefore essential.
  • Avoid behaviors that accelerate skin aging : smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and an unhealthy lifestyle can shorten the duration of results.
  • Schedule regular maintenance sessions.

The different types of hyaluronic acid injections and their timeframes for action

There are different types of hyaluronic acid injections, each with its own specific timeframe for visible results.

  • Superficial filler injections : used for fine lines and wrinkles, these injections are typically performed with lightly cross-linked hyaluronic acid. Results are visible immediately or within hours, and may continue to improve over a few days.
  • Deep volumizing injections : these injections use a denser, more cross-linked hyaluronic acid to restore volume in areas such as the cheeks or cheekbones. Results are immediate and improve within two weeks as the product settles and fully integrates into the tissue.
  • Deep hydration injections : designed to improve skin quality and hydration, these are done with minimally cross-linked hyaluronic acid containing very fine particles. The effects are not immediately visible—or only slightly visible at first. Typically, two sessions spaced six weeks apart are recommended.
    The benefits appear gradually : skin becomes more luminous and hydrated over time.

How to choose the right type of hyaluronic acid injection ?

The doctor chooses the type of injection and hyaluronic acid based on several factors :

  • Skin condition : patients with superficial wrinkles or dehydrated skin will benefit from superficial injections or skin boosters. Those with volume loss or deeper wrinkles will require deeper, volumizing injections.
  • Aesthetic goals : some patients seek subtle, natural-looking results, while others desire a more noticeable transformation. The doctor will advise you on the product and technique best suited to your expectations.
  • Budget and availability : the cost of a hyaluronic acid injection varies depending on the product used, the area treated, and the amount required.
  • The doctor's expertise .

Injection techniques and their impact on results

The results of hyaluronic acid injections can also be influenced by the technique used :

  • Needle injection : this is the classic method in which hyaluronic acid is injected directly into wrinkles or hollow areas using a fine needle. This technique allows for great precision, especially useful for small areas or fine lines. Swelling is often more localized and the effect is immediate.
  • Cannula injection : hyaluronic acid is injected using a cannula (a blunt-tipped needle) rather than a standard needle. This allows for the treatment of larger areas with fewer entry points, reducing the risk of bruising. Results are also visible quickly, often with fewer hematomas, although swelling may be slightly more pronounced compared to the needle technique.

Realistic expectations after a hyaluronic acid injection

It is crucial to have realistic expectations about the results of hyaluronic acid injections. It is important to understand that :

  • Results vary from one person to another : skin structure, age, metabolism, anatomy, and lifestyle habits (such as smoking or sun exposure) can all influence the speed and longevity of results.
  • Results are not permanent : hyaluronic acid is a biodegradable substance that is naturally absorbed by the body over time. Maintenance sessions (typically once a year) are therefore necessary to preserve the effects.
  • Multiple sessions may be necessary : in some cases, a second session may be required to optimize the outcome. During the initial consultation, the doctor will inform you of the number of sessions needed. Clear communication with the doctor is essential to tailor the treatment to the patient’s needs.

Patients testimonials and clinical studies on the effect of hyaluronic acid injections

Numerous clinical studies and patient testimonials confirm the effectiveness of hyaluronic acid injections in rejuvenating the skin and filling wrinkles. A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology found that over 90 % of patients were satisfied with the results after hyaluronic acid injections, and the effects were still visible 6 to 12 months post-treatment.

Patient testimonials also show that, while results are often visible immediately, satisfaction tends to increase further after a few weeks—once the hyaluronic acid has fully integrated into the skin tissue.

Recent innovations and trends in hyaluronic acid injections

The aesthetic medicine industry is constantly evolving, with innovations in hyaluronic acid-based products and injection techniques appearing regularly. Current trends include :

  • Hybrid products : some new products combine hyaluronic acid with other substances, such as vitamins or peptides, to enhance results. Doctor Romano favors pure hyaluronic acid injections.
  • “Light touch” treatments : these involve injecting small amounts of hyaluronic acid across several areas to achieve a subtle and natural result. This technique is increasingly popular among younger patients who want to prevent aging signs without drastically changing their appearance.
  • Preventive injections : more and more young adults, often starting in their twenties, are opting for hyaluronic acid injections not to correct visible signs of aging, but to prevent their appearance. Preventive injections help maintain skin elasticity and hydration, thus delaying signs of aging.

What to expect after a hyaluronic acid injection ?

Hyaluronic acid injections are a proven and effective method for improving skin appearance, smoothing wrinkles, and restoring facial volume. Results are often visible immediately but continue to improve over the days and weeks following treatment. The key to success lies in choosing the right doctor, clearly communicating your expectations, and receiving appropriate post-injection care.

If you are in Geneva and considering hyaluronic acid injections, consult an experienced doctor who can guide you toward the best option based on your skin type and personal goals. Hyaluronic acid injections can help you regain Skin Radiance and a rejuvenated face—safely and with natural-looking results.

Photo of doctor Valeria Romano in Geneva

Article written by Dr Romano Valeria

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Dr Valeria Romano
Pl. du Molard 5, 1204 Geneva, Switzerland

[email protected]

+41 78 209 02 89

Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 6pm

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