Hydrafill® - Dermal Fillers

The distinguishing feature about this product is that it uses the popular, filler hyaluronic acid. It was launched in the UK market in 2004. It is manufactured by one of the largest known producers of hyaluronic acid, Corneal, while the distribution is done by Inamed Aesthetics which are now part of Allergen.

The generic composition is made of Non-Animal stabilized hyaluronic acid and is manufactured by use of bacterial fermentation process. The finished product does not require any form of prior testing before use, as it is characteristics are of natural origin; either from human or animal. Given the fact that the main constituent of the product is hyaluronic acid, the product is non-permanent. It lasts for a short amount of time and requires repeated treatments to maintain the improved condition of the treated problems.

The product ranges include Hydrafill® Grade 1, which is suitable for very fine lines such as those due to laughter, as well as smoker lines. Hydrafill® Grade 2 is appropriate for treating medium wrinkles and lines. For example, it can effectively treat nasolabial lines, glabeller lines and oral commissures at corners of the mouth. The third range is Hydrafill® Grade 3 which is specifically designed for treating deep wrinkles and lines like nasolabial folds. Additionally, it can be used for chin augmentation and enhancing the border of one’s lips. Hydrafill® Softline is designed for treatment of vertical lip lines, nasolabial folds and forehead wrinkles, among other conditions. Lastly, Hydrafill® Softline Max is developed for use in lip volume increase, nasolabial folds, oral commissures, chin lines, deep jaw lines and the areas around the lower cheek.

It should not be used on individuals known to have hypersensitivity to hyaluronic acid, autoimmune disease, pregnant or breastfeeding women or patients that are likely to develop hypertrophic scars. The degree of treatment required, lifestyle and age and quality of placement by the practitioner are some of the factors that determine the period it will take for full utilization after treatment. Based on averages, it should take approximately six to twelve months; meaning then that it offers a non-permanent solution. Hence, repeated treatments will be advisable.

Some of the side effects that can be experienced include swelling, discouration, pain, itching, redness, and tenderness at the region of the implant. In addition, 1 out of every 2000 patients treated have been reported to develop reactions that are thought to be related to hypersensitivity, which is quite a low percentage.