Hydroxyapatite

Hydroxyapatite may have an obscure sounding name, but its source, coral, is very familiar to us. Scientists have found that coral has almost identical properties to human bone, making it the ideal substance for use in facial surgery.

How hydroxyapatite can help reduce the appearance of aging

Contrary to common belief, the facial skeleton shrinks as we age. This is one reason why people lose facial definition as they get older, leading to the traditional signs of aging. Although those born with good facial structure age better, the loss of facial bone is inevitable – it cannot be slowed through exercise or diet.

Facial bone enhancement using hydroxyapatite essentially builds up small areas of facial bone to bring back structure, lessening the visual effects of aging on the face.

Why hydroxyapatite?

There are alternatives to hydroxyapatite – injectable fillers, fat injections or silicone implants are all commonly used to reverse the signs of aging. But hydroxyapatite has some significant advantages. Firstly because it is bio-identical to human bone, hydroxyapatite bonds naturally with bone with a negligible rate of infection.

Secondly, hydroxyapatite is prepared into a putty-like substance and so can be easily moulded into the precise shape required, unlike some implants.

And thirdly, hydroxyapatite is permanent. There is no need to return for additional injections, implants or surgery.

The procedure

Dr Mendelson has developed a method that uses a tiny incision, concealed inside the mouth. The procedure is completed in about an hour and bruising, if any is minimal. The technique is more involved than a filler injection but less invasive than traditional surgery and usually only requires a local anaesthetic or light general anaesthetic.

Dr Mendelson is a noted leader in this field and has used hydroxyapatite in over 400 procedures.

The results

Procedures using hydroxyapatite directly enhance bone structure by lifting the soft tissue, reducing heaviness of lower eyelid bags or defining the jawline. Enhancing bone structure with hydroxyapatite not only rejuvenates but glamourises too.  

For more information about hydroxyapatite or to arrange a consultation, please contact the practice.