The latest statistics are quite remarkable: last year in 2017, there were over 20 million non-surgical cosmetic procedures performed in the U.S. and nearly 16 million of that number were injectables of Botox-type neuromodulators and soft tissue volume replacement (fillers). So what could possibly explain this explosive growth?
At EVOLV Plastic Surgery and Medical Aesthetics, we have a long-term commitment and interest in ongoing education for our staff as well as our patients. So let’s take a look at some of the reasons driving the increased demand and popularity of injectable soft tissue fillers and Botox-type neuromodulators.
More natural long-lasting result
Gone are the days of simply injecting Botox to the scowl lines of the forehead (glabella) or adding filler to the nasolabial folds to rejuvenate the aging face. The commitment to comprehensive aesthetics at EVOLVis a holistic appreciation of all of the parameters of the aging face and body. Along with the fundamentals of a personalized skin health program, a number of different FDA-approved injectable neuromodulators (Botox/Xeomin/Dysport) may be used for different applications and results balancing facial expressions and movement to obtain a more youthful outcome as well as to reduce migraine headache triggers. Patients may be surprised to learn that there are over 100 medically approved therapeutic indications for current Botox-type treatments! A new Botox type injectable (DaxibotulinumtoxinA or RT002) is scheduled for release soon and has the advantage of lasting 50% longer or up to 6 months. Combining neuromodulators and soft tissue fillers properly can result in a natural and balanced youthful appearance that can be quite cost-effective and lasting. New ‘flexible’ fillers (Galderma’s Refyne and Defyne) create volume replacement while maintaining harmonious movement in the face resulting in a more natural result along with less swelling.
Less chance for bruising, swelling, and discomfort with treatments
For many patients, the risk of bruising and prolonged swelling with traditional injection is a major concern. This risk can be minimized by the use of cannulas for soft tissue filler placement in some areas instead of needles. In addition, advances in bioengineering and technology have resulted in new fillers that last longer and induce significantly less swelling (Allergan’s Voluma, Vollure and Volbella, and Bellotero form Merz). EVOLV recently introduced the ProNox system for patients which allows them to self-administer nitrous oxide gas to reduce the perception of any discomfort during treatment. Finally, new formulations in topical numbing or anesthetic creams are more effective in reducing any discomfort during injection and other procedures in the office. All of the above have significantly improved the patient experience during injectable treatments at EVOLV.
Expanding patient base and options
Because of the improvement in products and the potential for more natural and affordable outcomes, more patients, male and female, and of all ages, are seeking treatments. Indications, as well as ‘off label’ uses of FDA fillers and neuromodulators, are providing more comprehensive and natural-appearing results. A few examples are the use of Botox for migraine prevention, and the use of injectable soft tissue fillers for rejuvenation of the aging hands as well as for correcting depressions and cellulite improvement on the body and buttocks. A new category of fillers that induce soft-tissue growth from the patient’s own cells are called ‘biostimulators’ and they include Sculptra and the new exciting product Renuva which is called an ‘adipose matrix’ and triggers natural fat and tissue growth in areas of scars or depression.
The importance of safety and training
As in all areas of aesthetics, the key to achieving high patient satisfaction and safety is comprehensive and ongoing training for all providers and staff. At EVOLV, education and patient safety are our passion and we believe it is everyone’s responsibility to keep patients safe and happy with their overall experience. We take this commitment seriously because, as everyone is aware, complications and unfavorable results are all too common in cosmetic treatments. The high demand for aesthetic treatments has outpaced the number of properly trained and credentialed service providers so it is especially important for anyone interested in these treatments to carefully research and understand the experience and training credentials of any provider offering services in aesthetic care. Complications can be very difficult and expensive to treat and correct so we encourage any interested patient to be well informed before making a decision to undergo cosmetic treatment.
The advances in biomaterials, technology, and research-proven new products and techniques have resulted in significant improvement and new options in non-surgical facial and body rejuvenation with injectable soft tissue filler augmentation and Botox-type neuromodulators. Safety and longevity of results, when performed by a board-certified/eligible plastic surgeon or properly trained registered nurse injector, have also resulted in a tremendous increase in the popularity of these procedures. At EVOLV Plastic Surgery and Medical Aesthetics, we believe in and emphasize comprehensive aesthetic programs combining these options along with a personalized skincare plan as the most effective way to achieve long-lasting and natural appearing outcomes for each patient. And finally, EVOLV has recently introduced the ensoClub which is a private membership program with the benefits of reduced cost, preferred bookings, and more affordable customized treatment plans. If you are interested in more information on the ensoClub program be sure to ask any of the EVOLV professional staff.