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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The treatment of changes affecting the intimate area is becoming an increasingly common request in aesthetic medicine. Hyaluronic acid is used to augment theG-spot, labia majora , and to treat vaginal dryness.
The result is immediate and lasts one year. Injections are painless and the after-effects minimal.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Hyaluronic acid and Botox are two popular treatments in aesthetic medicine, but they work in different ways.
Hyaluronic acid is mainly used to fill wrinkles, restore volume, and hydrate the skin. It is injected directly into the areas that need correction.
Botox, on the other hand, is a muscle relaxant that works by blocking nerve signals to the muscles. It is ideal for smoothing dynamic wrinkles, such as forehead lines or crow’s feet. This product is not injected directly into the wrinkle but into the muscle whose contraction causes the wrinkle. Its lifespan is shorter than that of hyaluronic acid : Botox lasts about six months, while hyaluronic acid lasts about one year.
It is important not to confuse hyaluronic acid and botulinum toxin, commonly known as “Botox.” These two products have different properties, specificities, and applications. Botulinum toxin, which has been on the market since 2003, is used to treat expression lines. Botox works by blocking the contraction of the muscles responsible for those wrinkles, making them disappear. Hyaluronic acid, naturally present in our body, is used to soften static wrinkles, lift tissues, and add volume.
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.
On disinfected skin, several injection techniques can be used :
Once the injection is done, a massage with a moisturizing cream is performed to even out the result and distribute the product properly.
After the injection, certain instructions must be followed.
For 48 hours
For one week
For one month
To avoid any risk of complications, certain contraindications must be strictly respected. Hyaluronic acid injections are not permitted in the following cases :
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 :
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 :
Hyaluronic acid injections most frequently performed are :
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.
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.
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 and injections are both beneficial for the skin, but they differ in effects and applications.
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.
Hyaluronic acid is a substance naturally found in the human body and is used in aesthetic medicine for its hydrating and volumizing properties. When injected by a qualified and experienced doctor, hyaluronic acid is safe and well tolerated. However, like any treatment, some side effects may occur, such as redness, bruising, or slight swelling at the injection site.
REFERENCES
TO LEARN MORE
Hyaluronic acid for the face : why it's the favourite treatment of celebrities
The most popular hyaluronic acid injection techniques in 2024
Hyaluronic acid and hydration : innovations for glowing skin
Who has had aesthetic injections ? Spotting cosmetic injections
Hyaluronic acids safety and regulation : standards and guidelines
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 :
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.
Products such as Juvederm Voluma or Restylane Lyft or Restylane Volyme are renowned for their longevity, lasting up to eighteen to twenty-four months.
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. Legislation State of Vaud
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.
Highly cross-linked, highly volumising hyaluronic acids last the longest, often up to 12 to 18 months.
It all depends on the indication and the patient's anatomy. In general, the alternatives are: injections of botulinum toxin (Botox), collagen-inducing fillers such as Radiesse and Sculptra, lasers, chemical peels and radiofrequency.
The effects of hyaluronic acid injections are visible immediately after treatment. However, the result is optimal one to two weeks later.
To minimise the risk of bruising, it is best to avoid certain supplements (vitamin E, ginkgo biloba) for a week before and after the 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.
Balls can form if the hyaluronic acid is not correctly distributed or if the product migrates. This is a technical error. Correctly injected hyaluronic acid does not form lumps.
This is a false belief. It is advisable to hydrate properly. Drinking more does not change the result.
Massaging the injected area is not generally recommended. Massage could displace the product.
It is advisable to wait at least 24 hours before applying make-up.
To avoid excessive pressure or movement on the treated area, we recommend waiting 24 to 48 hours before kissing.
To reduce bruising, apply cold compresses to the area.
Arnica- or vitamin K-based creams can be used to speed up the process.
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.
To maintain the results, moisturise your skin regularly and use appropriate skin care products. Avoid excessive exposure to the sun and intense heat (sauna and hammam) and consult your doctor for regular maintenance treatments, generally every 6 to 12 months.
Hyaluronic acid injections can be less effective if the skin is very thick, if the product degrades rapidly or if the injection technique is unsuitable. For good results, you need to consult an experienced doctor.
To make the lumps disappear after a hyaluronic acid injection, light massage can help. If they persist, the doctor will decide whether to dissolve them or do a touch-up.
Properly injected, hyaluronic acid stays in place. It is important to call on an experienced doctor who can identify the right indications, inject the right product (there are a variety of hyaluronic acids depending on the indication), in the right place (there are different injection depths) and in the right quantity.
