Injectables
By far the commonest cosmetic procedures undertaken in our community. At Main Street Skin Clinic, we offer a range of injectables including more recent advanced therapies not offered elsewhere:
- Muscle relaxants related to the botulinum toxin.
- Dermal fillers with the predominant ingredient being hyaluronic acid.
- Fat dissolving injections deoxycholic acid.
- Platelet rich plasma (PRP).
The last two options are offerings we are particularly excited about.
Deoxycholic acid is naturally occurring compound found in bile salts. Your body produces it to help in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fats. At our clinic we offer this treatment to permanently dissolve fat under the chin. More than one treatment session is usually required however, this procedure is a less invasive alternative to surgical liposuction that will not leave you with surgical scars under the chin and zero risk of potentially fatal fat embolism.
Prior to administration, patients are assessed for other conditions that may lead to submental fullness, including thyromegaly and cervical lymphadenopathy. Topical anaesthetic is applied prior to the procedure to ensure maximal comfort, before the area is marked and injections are given.
The only approved location for deoxycholic acid injections currently is the subcutaneous fat under the chin.
The commonest side effects include headache as well as pain, swelling and bruising at the injection site. These are temporary. Approximately 1/100 patients suffer a neuropraxic injury to the marginal mandibular nerve (causing an asymmetric smile) which resolves within 6 weeks. Less than 1/1000 patients experience temporary dysphonia (voice) and dysgeusia (taste), lasting days.
Platelet rich plasma (PRP)is another cutting-edge therapy offered at this clinic. Though not entirely understood, the mechanisms of action are thought to include growth factor release, fibroblast activation and angiogenesis, leading to increased blood flow and collagen production within the skin. Dermatologically, PRP has been employed in chronic ulcer disease, acne treatment, scar treatment, skin grafts and vitiligo (in combination with phototherapy). Aesthetically, PRP improves the health and appearance of the skin leading to increased thickness and reduced rhytids.
After a thorough consultation with a medical doctor to determine suitability, the patient’s own blood is drawn and placed in a centrifuge to separate out the different components and produce PRP. The PRP is then injected in and under the skin to improve tone, texture and rhytids. At Main Street Skin Clinic, the procedure is performed with topical and local anaesthetic, as an isolated procedure or in combination with other therapies as part of a tailored solution. The procedure has produced excellent results for moderate static forehead wrinkles and dark circles under the eyes. The procedure works synergistically with light-based technologies. We are also trialing the therapy at MSSC for hair loss.
Usually, two treatment sessions one month apart are required in the first instance as a minimum. Additional sessions will result in greater improvement in skin quality, but at an increased cost. Maintenance therapy is recommended on a yearly schedule.
Autologous blood products (your own blood) being reinjected into your own body carries very little risk. Contraindications to treatment include platelet dysfunction syndromes, chronic liver disease, and use of anticoagulant medication amongst other considerations. These and any other concerns should be discussed with your doctor.