Read more about Macrolane
Macrolane – the first body shaping treatment using hyaluronic acid. It is based on Q-Med’s unique patented NASHAâ„¢ technology (Stabilized Non-Animal Hyaluronic Acid) which has been used in over 9 million treatments in over 70 countries worldwide. Use of NASHA has been clinically proven and well documented in facial aesthetics for over 10 years.
What is NASHA?
Stabilized, Non-Animal Hyaluronic acid (NASHA) is unique to Q-Med, manufacturers of Macrolane. Naturally occurring hyaluronic acid (HA) undergoes a process where less than one percent is stabilized to form a permanent three-dimensional HA network without damaging the original chemical structure. This means that the body recognizes the gel as its own. As a result the NASHA gel that carries minimal risk of allergic reaction or transmission of infectious substances and enables a longer durability.
Macrolane is intended to last for 12-18 months. Each individual treatment programme will include a yearly top-up as required to maintain optimal treatment results.
What are the indications for Macrolane?
Macrolane is an innovative product currently indicated for volume restoration and shaping of body surfaces, for example, breast shaping, the calves and buttocks. Macrolane can also even out discrepancies in the skin surface, for example, those caused by liposuction. Macrolane can also used to improve the appearance of deep, disfiguring surgical scars.
Treatment Indications
Macrolane VRF is CE approved in EU for volume restoration and contouring of body surfaces. The most common areas for which Macrolane is currently being used include;
- Breasts
- Concavities caused by liposuction
- Calves
- Buttock shaping
- Male Chest Shaping (Pecs)
- Trauma and surgical scars
- Male Chest
- Body Depressions
- Reconstructive
What are the benefits of Macrolane?
Market research has shown there to be a significant number of women who would like to adjust the shape of their body in a natural, non-permanent way that does not involve the use of implants or body fat in a major surgical procedure. Many women are also very hesitant about undergoing general anaesthesia or being left with a scar. With Macrolane, the procedure is short and requires only local anaesthetic resulting in minimal downtime and time away from work or day to day activities.
Anatomy of Breast
Macrolane VRF is currently approved for use of volume restoration and shaping of body surfaces. Many physicians see advantages of using Macrolane for breast shaping as opposed to more invasive techniques.
Women who are considering breast shaping with Macrolane will want to be reassured that the implant will not adversely affect the efficiency of future mammograms and/or the breast tissue itself. In one study, mammography after Macrolane injection for breast augmentation was evaluated. It was concluded that mammograms from these patients were easy to evaluate. Furthermore, routine supplementation of mammography with MRI does not appear necessary in patients treated with Macrolane.1
Q-Med, the manufacturer of Macrolane, is committed to continuous research and development and patient safety is a high priority. A number of physicians are currently working with Q-Med as part of this continued commitment.
1 Breast Augmentation with Stabilized Hyaluronic Acid Gel of Non-Animal Origin: Visualisation of Tissue Behind IMplants – Magnus Tengvar, Per Heden, Michael Olenius (Poster presented at IMCAS January 2008)
Market research has shown there to be a significant number of women who would like to adjust the shape of their body in a natural, non-permanent way that does not involve the use of implants or body fat in a major surgical procedure. Many women are also very hesitant about undergoing general anesthesia or being left with a scar. With Macrolane, the procedure is short and requires only local anaesthetic and minimal time away from work or after-work activities. The below table illustrates some of the advantages of Macrolane over more invasive cosmetic surgery.
Cosmetic Surgery | Macrolane Treatment |
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Macrolane product is also said to be 100 per cent safe. However, Q-Med values patient safety above all else and has carried clinical trials on Macrolane to make it as safe and effective as possible. Q-Med will continue to carry out clinical trials on Macrolane as part of its ongoing commitment to research and development.
Will Macrolane interfere with the reading of mammograms to detect breast cancer or other breast defects?
Patient safety is a priority for Q-Med and the company has carried out clinical trials into the use of Macrolane for women undergoing mammography following breast shaping. Results of these clinical investigations show that Macrolane does not interfere with mammograms or obstruct the detection of breast defects.
Step by step Macrolane treatment
General anaesthesia is not required and the procedure can be carried out in a clean environment similar to minor surgery.
Treatments with Macrolane
Macrolane – the first body shaping product using hyaluronic acid.
During the treatment, Macrolane gel is injected with a special needle deep under the skin to add volume and support, leaving no unsightly scars. The treatment can be done under local anaesthetic. After a treatment with Macrolane you can see the results instantly and you can return to your normal daily routine shortly after the treatment. However, some common injection-related reactions might occur including redness, swelling, tenderness, pain, bruising or itching. Reactions normally resolve spontaneously within a few weeks. During the first week after the treatment you should avoid strenuous exercise or any activity that could put pressure on the treatment area. You should also avoid exposing the treated area to intense heat or cold.
Macrolane VRF is available in two formulations that can be injected seperately or in combination to ensure full correction and smoothness of the skin surface. The formulation and volume of Macrolane used (either VRF 20 or VRF 30) will be dependant on the individual and treatment area. To discover the most common areas of treatment, click here. Our plastic surgeons will advise you at your consultation of the most appropriate treatment procedure.
Can Macrolane VRF be used for breast shaping?
Yes, Macrolane is licensed for breast shaping. Many physicians see advantages of using Macrolane for breast shaping as opposed to more invasive techniques.
Macrolane for breast shaping is suitable for women whom have asymmetry, loss of volume as a result of breast feeding or weight loss, or under-developed breasts. Macrolane is particularly suited for women wishing to increase by a cup size and seeking increased shape as opposed to breast augmentation. Macrolane enables physicians to sculpt the breast to provide a very natural breast enhancement.
Can Macrolane be used for facial aesthetic treatments?
No, Macrolane is a specifically formulated NASHA gel that gives increased volume. as a result it should only be used for volume restoration and shaping of body surfaces.
Can Macrolane cause breast cancer?
No, there has been no causal link found between Macrolane, which is composed of hyaluronic acid, a natural substance already found in the body, and cancer.
Can Macrolane be used in reconstructive surgery?
Macrolane does have potential for use in reconstruction in breast cancer patients post lumpectomy, as a stand alone treatment or in conjunction with other reconstructive procedures because of its moulding and shaping qualities. It is recommended that this special group of patients discuss all the treatment options with their breast reconstructive surgeon.