FILLER "RHEOLOGY"---A GOOD REASON TO AVOID POORLY INFORMED COSMETIC INJECTORS

"Rheology—the study of flow-related properties—has been recognized for almost a century as being relevant to a number of fields, including materials science, geophysics and pharmaceutics.

Rheologic theory and measurements are considered critical for the manufacture of topical medications, paints and inks, concrete and even chocolate"

 

Hema Sundaram, MD, FAAD Medical

Director of Sundaram Dermatology, Cosmetic &

Laser Surgery in Rockville, MD and Fairfax, VA.

 

Contemporary cosmetic injectors require a fundamental appreciation of the RHEOLOGY of the fillers they inject. Selection of an injectable filler with tissue appropriate rheological properties optimises the possibility of achieving a pleasing and durable aesthetic outcome.

 

Todays Hyaluronic (HA) fillers are manufactured with a variety of sophisticated rheological characteristics (eg-plasticity, viscosity, elasticity, cohesivity)  that only well informed and technically advanced injectors can safely utilise to avoid untoward outcomes.

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Just as the driver a sophisticated vehicle requires a good working knowledge of the engineering, today's cosmetic injector should display both excellent technique and an excellent working knowledge of filler choice for aesthetic task at hand. Few of us would be comfortable as passengers in a high tech vehicle being driven by a naïve driver.

Equally, discerning cosmetic patients can be reassured by choosing a cosmetic practitioner with an advanced appreciation of the product to be injected.

My next blog will focus on injectable cosmetic filler complications. Another compelling reason to choose your cosmetic practitioner very carefully.