*Actual patient of Dr. Lum*
Inner and outer cheeks were enhanced with Juvederm Ultra Plus XC 1 ml syringe by using a SoftFil 25G x 1.5” microcannula to fan in product by using two insertion points per side of face.
What Is A Microcannula?
A microcannula, simply referred to as a “cannula,” is a thin, flexible hollow tube with a smooth round tip on one end. The opposite end has a plastic hub, which is attached to a syringe. Unlike a needle that easily pierces the skin, a blunt-tip microcannula opens up a path between structures in tissue. 
It shears rather than cuts, similar to the way a flexible coffee stirrer can be placed between a gloved hand and the glove itself without poking into the hand.
This reduces discomfort, bleeding, bruising, trauma and swelling.
Why Use A Microcannula?
The decision to use a microcannula depends on the preference of the injector. Although needles are easy to use and can place product precisely where directed, they are more likely to cause bruising or transfer filler substance into a blood vessel. At depths where fillers are typically placed, most blood vessels cannot be seen. The utmost care will always be taken when injecting near areas that are more likely to bruise or with blood vessels we try to avoid. For instance, the tear trough region under the eye is more likely to bruise with a needle. Although not foolproof, microcannulas greatly reduce the risk of bruising and unintended injection into a vessel. Cannulas can also reduce trauma, discomfort and swelling.
So Why Use A Needle?
Since needles are more rigid and sharp, they can be inserted easily and placed just about anywhere with precision. They can be placed at all depths of skin, under the skin and directly on top of bone. Cannulas can be injected at different levels of soft tissue, but not easily into the dermis of the skin. They are used when soft tissue implantation is desired beneath the dermis. A needle is sharp and easily penetrates the skin. It can be placed in the superficial, middle or deep layer of skin. Needles are also used for serial puncture methods of filler placement.
Do Fillers Come With Cannulas?
Fillers typically come packaged with at least two needles per syringe. These needles have sharp beveled ends that easily pierce the skin and soft tissue structures to precisely deliver the filler to its target. The needles can be substituted for others of different length and sizes. Cannulas are purchased separately, are more flexible and can be used instead of the supplied needles. Dr. Michael Lum uses a variety of cannula brands and sizes depending on the specific application.
How Do Microcannulas Get Through The Skin?
Microcannulas have smooth, blunt tips. A small entry point must be made with a sterile hypodermic needle slightly wider than the cannula.
Where Is The Port On A Microcannula Versus A Needle?
On a microcannula, the port is located near the tip, but on the side. The distance from the port to the cannula tip varies depending on the cannula size and brand. With a needle, the port is at the tip on a sharp bevel.
