Cannulas for Fillers

Cannulas are thin metal tubes, normally made from medical steel, which are used as an alternative to standard filler needles. They allow for better distribution of the filler gel without excessive bruising or skin redness, as they reduce the risk of damaging blood vessels or nerves.

The main difference between needles and cannulas is that the latter has a rounded, blunt tip, which does not pierce the skin tissues but rather safely slider under them. Their design significantly decreases the chance to damage surrounding skin tissues that the process of applying the filler might normally cause. Post treatment adverse effects like swelling, bruising, redness, itching and overall discomfort are thus limited and subside quicker. Cannulas are best used in sensitive and delicate areas, which makes them the preferred option when using under eye fillers or during cheek volume restoration procedures.

The answer to this question vastly depends on the procedure, the patient and the preference of the dermatologist/licensed practitioner. As noted, cannulas do have certain advantages in regard to comfort and safety, however, some situations might mandate the usage of a needle (e.g. lip enhancement), rather than a cannula. Often, high quality cannulas, like JBP, for example, would include both a cannula and a needle in the pack.

Cannulas are most appropriate to use as a substitute of needles, in areas where the skin is delicate and most prone to bruise from the filler procedure. This is especially true when restoring skin volume loss under the eyes or when volumizing the cheeks. However, treatment of Crow’s feet and other superficial wrinkles, as well as lip augmentation is best performed with a needle, as it allows for better control of the process.

Using a cannula is similar to using a needle. The cannula is inserted beneath the skin, through the entry point, at the target depth and then the filler is applied. Discomfort during and after the procedure, as well as redness and bruising should be noticeably less pronounced and the overall recovery time after getting the filler should be even shorter.