Needles vs. Cannulas: The Pros
Traditionally, dermal fillers have been injected into the face using a needle; however, cannulas have become increasingly popular over recent years, specifically with larger areas of the face. As the popularity of cannulas continues to grow, how do nurse injectors decide between the two methods when treating a patient?
(Needle vs. Cannula)
Needles are short and rigid with a sharp tip. Needles come in different sizes, your injector chooses the appropriate needle based off a variety of factors, such as the type of product and the area being treated. Needles allow for multiple entry points and they’re excellent for accuracy and precision. Needles are ideal for administering a specific amount of product in a very specific area, such as in the lips or nose. Cannulas are long and flexible with a blunt tip. Cannulas are available in various lengths, and the correct length is chosen based on the treatment area and type of product. Cannulas allow for fewer entry points and typically less swelling & bruising. With cannula use, a pilot hole is created prior, which is frequently used as the only entry point. With a needle, there is a new entry point each time your nurse injects. Cannulas also provide maximum flexibility, allowing injectors to maneuver into different treatment areas with a decreased risk of vascular compromise. Commonly treated areas with a cannula include the jawline and under-eye area.Needles vs. Cannulas: The Cons
While cannulas have a variety of benefits, cannulas are not ideal for treating targeted, smaller areas with maximum accuracy. Additionally, cannulas have a blunt tip, which means a pilot hole must be created (with a needle) before the tool can be inserted. The use of cannulas can also make it difficult for nurse injectors to reach deeper levels of the skin or tissue, which is occasionally needed. The biggest risk associated with the use of needles is the possibility of vascular occlusion, which is when filler is injected into the blood vessel, blocking the flow of your bloodstream. When this occurs, it can lead to a variety of severe complications. However, there are specific steps that injectors take to minimize the risk of vascular occlusion. The use of needles can also lead to more bruising and swelling, as your injector frequently has to re-insert the needle during treatment. For patients with a low pain tolerance, this can become uncomfortable for them.In the end, there are benefits to both methods, depending on the area being treated, desired results and medical opinion of the injector. At Deux Rosé Beauty Refinery, our injectors use both tools as needed and are properly trained with both needles and cannulas… patient safety is our top concern! To book your injection consultation, contact our office at 702-683-2831 or click here to book online to get started today.