Most people know dermal fillers and neuromodulators as injectable treatments used to plump the lips or reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on the face. However, both types of injectable treatments have several other applications that may surprise you. With a diverse range of cosmetic and therapeutic indications, we’re highlighting 7 of the most interesting and lesser-known uses of injectables.
1. Relaxing platysmal bands
Platysmal bands are a natural part of the aging process. Over time, the skin loses elasticity which causes the skin overlying the platysma muscle in the neck to weaken and sag. As this occurs in conjunction with repeated muscle activity, vertical neck cords and bands can form across the neck leading up to the chin. While platysmal bands don’t pose any health risks, they can be a cosmetic concern for many patients. Neuromodulator injections are a non-invasive treatment for achieving a more youthful neckline. A few well-placed injections can help relax the platysma muscles, making the vertical bands less noticeable.
2. Smoothing tech neck lines
Craning our heads downward while checking smartphones, tablets, and other electronic devices can cause neck lines to deepen and wrinkle. These horizontal lines on the neck are often referred to as “tech neck.” Though some wrinkling is inevitable with age, there has been a rise in premature aging of the neck, and many patients are concerned about correcting lines that have already formed. Neuromodulators and HA fillers have been used for several years to treat horizontal neck wrinkles and creases. Small amounts of neuromodulators or fillers can be injected into this area to help tighten the skin and smooth the lines.
3. Non-surgical brow lifts
As the face ages, another area of concern is the brows. Over time the brows begin to sag and furrow. A non-surgical brow lift can help treat dynamic wrinkles, raise sagging eyebrows, and reduce the appearance of upper eyelid hooding. By injecting a small amount of neuromodulator above the lateral aspect of the eyebrows, droopy brows can be raised for a more awake and youthful appearance.
4. Plumping under eye hollows
Under eye filler is an excellent treatment for patients looking to brighten and plump their under-eye area. Under eye filler is a targeted injection with products like Teosyal® Redensity II that can improve the appearance of sunken tear troughs, dark shadows caused by hollows, fine lines, and wrinkles. The results are often immediate, and patients notice a brighter, plumper and more youthful, less tired-looking under eye area. Due to the small surface area, this rejuvenating procedure doesn’t require many injections and results can last for up to a year.
5. Relaxing the masseter for TMJ
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders affect the jaw joints and surrounding muscles and ligaments. The TMJ is used during talking, eating, and swallowing and can become displaced or overworked through excessive teeth grinding and jaw clenching. Symptoms of TMJ disorders can include jaw tenderness, tension headaches, earaches, and facial pain. When neuromodulators are injected into the temporalis, frontal, and masseter muscles, nerve signals that cause uncontrollable muscle movements are blocked, relaxing the muscles and alleviating these symptoms.
6. Hyperhidrosis treatments for underarm sweating
Neuromodulators can effectively treat axillary hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating in the underarms. This treatment involves 15-20 small injections administered directly into the armpit area. The treatment works by blocking the nerve signals responsible for sweating and stops the sweat glands from producing excessive sweat. Patients may notice results after only a few days, and results can be highly effective and long-lasting. One of the benefits of this treatment is that it also reduces noticeable body odours caused by axillary hyperhidrosis.
7. Filler to recreate nipples after breast reconstruction
While surgical breast reconstruction can greatly improve the psychological well-being of patients who have undergone mastectomies, nipple flattening is a common side effect. HA fillers like Juvéderm® are a non-invasive way to restore the 3-dimensional contour of the nipple following a nipple-areola complex (NAC) reconstruction. The filler is injected intradermally at the base of the nipple until the desired projection is obtained. This treatment results in enhanced nipple projection with immediate and adjustable volume results. The utility and safety of HA fillers make this injectable an ideal filler for restoring the natural feel and contour to the delicate structure of the NAC.
Remember, neuromodulators and fillers should be administered by a trained medical professional such as a board-certified dermatologist, plastic surgeon, or nurse injector. Good skincare habits are also a great way to help maintain a more youthful appearance over the long term. Book a consultation with FORM Face + Body today to discuss which treatments could be most beneficial for you.
