Aquamid - Dermal Fillers

Aquamid was launched in 2003 in the UK as a non-absorbable soft volume filler, which provides long-lasting effects to enhance facial contours. It is made up of 97.5% water for injection and 2.5% cross-linked polyacrylamide. The molecule is not dissolved in water, but is "swollen" like a sponge. In the former Soviet Union and Europe this product has been used extensively, especially for aesthetic functions during a period of over ten years with over 30,000 patients treated. It can also be found in tissue implant materials and soft contact lenses.

For treatment with this brand of dermal filler no skin test is required prior to application, so it can be used directly on the skin as a safe, tried and tested product. It falls under the permanent filler category and it is given, not by a solid product, but by water. The injection takes place right under the skin where it cannot be felt or seen, and remains permanently in place since it is non-absorbable.

It becomes easier for the body to hold the gel and keep it there by forming a thin membrane around the implant, which helps keep it firmly in place. Some of the conditions that can be treated with the substance include facial lines such as nasolabial folds, lip enhancement, depressed scars, cheekbones and jaw line enhancement, as well as contouring of the nose.

In terms of side-effects this brand of dermal filler is not known to cause any serious complications. There are very rare cases of reactions but these clear up within a short time. Some of the temporary reactions which can be experienced include pain, reddening, itching and oedema. From the use of Aquamid there is about 1 in 1500 patients likely to develop short-term problems with swelling near to the injected regions. In terms of cost practitioners will normally charge from £200 to £800 per injection.