Conclusions

The author’s personal experience, supplemented by the work of respected colleagues in the industry, has proved that cannulae could and should be used effectively — not only when working with soft tissue fillers, but also with non-cross-linked HA and PRP.

As the practical work showed (Table 2), cannulae of different manufacturers have their own advantages and disadvantages. However, the author’s experience has found that the most reliable and efficient cannula may be the STERiGLIDE (TSK Laboratory). Overall, the most universal are 27 G and 25 G cannulae of 38–50 mm; although it depends on the treatment region, of course (Table 1), where the gauge and length used would vary.

Achieving beneficial results

Working with reliable products and quality cannulae and needles, while complying with reasonable injection techniques and aseptic and antiseptic methods, leads to a genuinely easy and safe injection procedure, achieving results that benefit both the doctor and the patient.

Figure 8 Rejuvenation procedures applying non-cross-linked hyaluronic acid, and using a cannula technique. (A) Before and (B) after rejuvenation of the hands

Figure 8 Rejuvenation procedures applying non-cross-linked hyaluronic acid, and using a cannula technique. (A) Before and (B) after rejuvenation of the hands

Keeping up-to-date with the latest findings and products, attending seminars and conferences, exchanging personal experiences and findings with colleagues — regardless whether they are successful or not — and developing new work methods, all contribute to the physician’s professionalism, which without any doubt improves the quality of the procedure and, consequently, the appearance and wellbeing of our patients. In summary, all of this can be expressed using a simple formula: professionalism plus excellent knowledge of anatomy, plus a reliable product, plus a good cannula, results in guaranteed success.

Figure 9 Rejuvenation procedures applying non-cross-linked hyaluronic acid and platelet-rich plasma. (A) Before and (B) after rejuvenation of the hands

Figure 9 Rejuvenation procedures applying non-cross-linked hyaluronic acid and platelet-rich plasma. (A) Before and (B) after rejuvenation of the hands

Furthermore, it is important to point out that a cannula is by no means a substitute for a needle. It is just another instrument for injection procedures, along with the more traditional means. Depending on the task to be completed, as well as the circumstances of treatment, either cannula or needle should be used, while in some cases they could and should complement each other for better results. Personally, the author often works with cannulae and needles simultaneously when performing treatments with non-cross-linked HA and/or PRP.

Figure 10 Rejuvenation procedures applying non-cross-linked hyaluronic acid, and using a cannula technique. (A) Before and (B) after rejuvenation of the neck

Figure 10 Rejuvenation procedures applying non-cross-linked hyaluronic acid, and using a cannula technique. (A) Before and (B) after rejuvenation of the neck