Physicians have used cannulas to inject fillers as an alternative to needles.

Blunt-tip cannulas prevent the pricking on the veins. In addition, it is found that cannulas are more effective and safer for some patients. In one study, it is found that microcannulas lessened the incidence of tissue injury (Salti and Rauso, 2015). Dr. Sabine Zenker presents her techniques in using cannulas on the sagged lateral cheek areas and lips.

Many physicians have used the same method as cannulas have been seen as more effective and safer compared to needles. The author’s techniques are limited to the upper lateral and the lips.

Their technique for the lateral cheek is gentle molding, which would give an optimal result. The author recommends a linear threading method proceeding with a fan-shape that would help with cannulating from the entry point, the Zygomatic Arch.

As for the lips, the Zenker addresses it with “multiple boli” starting from the center eventually going laterally. In enhancing the lips, a lateral technique is also utilized. Thread volume is little, which allows correcting of the lips. The author reminds that there is a risk of overcorrection in this area.

So how else have authors used cannulas in their studies?

The authors have presented some cannulation techniques and recommendations on how to administer these injections. With cannulas, downtime has lessened significantly (Luthra, 2015). In addition, the author noted that patients returned for augmentation or enhancing procedures.

According to Arsiwala, when injecting with large-volume fillers, a cannula is more effective as opposed to the traditional needle. In Hedén’s (2016) study, which focuses on the nose, cannulas that are 25-G or wider lessens any risk to the vessel, in addition using thin cannulas reduces risk with intra-arterial injection. Montes, Wilson, Chang, and Percec (2016) recommend using a cannula for the upper eyelid to achieve ideal results.

Loghem, Yutskovskaya, and Werschler (2015) focuses on the danger zones and injection areas for cannulas. The authors suggest a multi-level approach (linear threading) when doing a brow lift and to avoid overcorrection to look masculine. In line with Zenker’s work, the researchers suggest to utilize a two-point cannula method when approaching the Zygomatic area.

To read more about the author’s techniques find out more about it here: https://www.prime-journal.com/indication-specific-cannula-treatment/

For the injection techniques by Loghem, Yutskovskaya, and Werschler, check it out here: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4295857/