The Mihee injection used in the treatment of nasolabial folds is a type of injection that stimulates the cells in the dermis to produce collagen on their own, rather than directly filling the space with collagen.
While fillers provide immediate volume enhancement, Mihee injections differ in that they focus on gradually restoring elasticity.
The best approach depends on the cause and severity of the wrinkles, as well as the desired rate of change. It is safest to determine the most appropriate method during a consultation (individual results may vary).
➊What is the principle behind the Mihee injection for treating nasolabial folds?
The Mihee injection, used in the treatment of wrinkles, is a type of injection that stimulates the cells in the dermis (the superficial layer of the skin) to produce their own collagen.
As skin ages, the number and function of skin cells decrease, along with a reduction in collagen. This approach involves sending signals back to these cells to stimulate collagen production.
Unlike methods that involve introducing collagen from the outside, the key difference is that it helps the cells themselves to restart collagen production.
Collagen rejuvenation injections can be broadly categorized into two main types.
One method involves directly adding collagen or moisturizing ingredients, while the other method uses bio-stimulation to encourage skin cells to produce new collagen.
Mihee injections are often marketed in a way that aligns more closely with the second approach.
➋How does it differ from fillers for nasolabial folds?
Filler for nasolabial folds provides immediate volume to the affected area.
A key characteristic is that noticeable changes can be seen immediately after the procedure, and the duration of the effects varies depending on the specific ingredients used.
In contrast, injections like Mihee, which stimulate collagen production, create a gradual effect, resulting in a feeling of increased elasticity rather than immediate filling.
| Category | Nasolabial fold filler | Mihee injection (collagen-stimulating) |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism of action | Immediate volume filling | Gradual formation through stimulation of skin cells. |
| When changes are noticed | Immediately after treatment | Over a period of several weeks or months, gradually |
| Main objective | Filling depressed areas | Improvement of elasticity and fine lines |
| Number of sessions | Usually completed in 1 session | There are often situations where multiple sessions are required. |
According to research, even formulations that claim to "stimulate collagen" can have different reaction pathways depending on their specific ingredients.
Depending on the ingredient, collagen may be produced through a pathway closer to tissue regeneration or one closer to an inflammatory response.
"Even under the same category of 'collagen stimulation,' the actual mechanisms of action can differ depending on the specific ingredients."
➌Are fillers or Mihee injections right for me?
If you have deep and well-defined wrinkles and are looking for immediate improvement, fillers are often the first option considered.
On the other hand, if the wrinkles are not severe and there is also a general decline in skin elasticity, I believe that methods like Mihee injection, which stimulate collagen production, could be helpful in achieving natural improvement.
In reality, it is not uncommon to see both methods being used simultaneously.
This approach first fills hollow areas with filler, while Mihee injections also address the elasticity of the surrounding skin.
However, the best course of action depends on the cause and severity of the wrinkles, so it is safest to determine the condition directly during a consultation.
- ✓ Dermal fillers: For immediate volume enhancement.
- ✓Mihee injection: For gradual, natural skin elasticity recovery.
- ✓ Both can be designed in parallel, depending on the degree and purpose.
➍What are the effects, and how long do they last?
Injections that stimulate collagen production are often felt gradually over time, rather than producing noticeable changes immediately after treatment.
This is because it takes a certain amount of time for new collagen to be produced. Generally, improvements are typically noticed over a period of weeks to months.
| Stage | Approximate timeframe | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Beginning | Immediately after the procedure ~ for a few days | Temporary swelling and injection reaction severity |
| Medium-term | After several weeks | Gradual changes in skin elasticity begin to be noticed |
| Stability | Several months have passed. | Effects stabilize as collagen production accumulates |
The duration and number of sessions required vary depending on the specific ingredients used and the individual's skin condition, so it's difficult to provide a definitive answer. However, it's important to remember that results can vary from person to person.
➎What are the side effects and precautions?
Collagen-boosting injections are generally considered safe, but there are a few things to keep in mind.
Immediately after the procedure, swelling, bruising, and temporary needle marks may appear, which typically resolve on their own within a few days.
Although rare, delayed nodules or foreign body reactions have been reported after a significant period of time following the procedure, even in locations other than the injection site.
While this is not a common occurrence, I want to be transparent and inform you of this possibility.
Additionally, depending on the ingredients, fish-derived components may be present, so individuals with relevant allergies should inform their practitioner before undergoing the procedure.
➏When it is suitable and when it is not
While the deep wrinkles are not severe, I would recommend the Mihee injection method for those who are concerned about overall skin laxity and the appearance of fine lines.
I believe this approach is well-suited for those who prefer gradual, natural improvements rather than immediate, drastic changes.
Conversely, if the nasolabial folds are already deeply etched and require immediate improvement, using Mihee injections alone may not be sufficient. In such cases, combining fillers with Mihee or exploring alternative methods may be more appropriate.
I want to emphasize that I do not recommend combining procedures unless they are truly necessary, and that the choice of procedure should always be based on the individual's specific condition.
"If you need immediate results, fillers might be the better option. However, if you prefer a gradual and natural recovery, collagen-stimulating methods could be more suitable."
Ultimately, the decision-making process for treatment involves considering the depth and cause of the nasolabial folds, as well as the overall skin elasticity (individual results may vary).
QFrequently asked questions
Yes, there are many cases where both can be done simultaneously.
A common approach is to fill hollow areas with filler first, while using Mihee injections to address the elasticity of the surrounding skin.
However, whether to combine treatments and in what order depends on the severity of the nasolabial folds and must be assessed during consultation.
Needle-based injections using bio-stimulation techniques are often administered in multiple sessions, gradually building up the desired effect.
The exact interval between sessions and the total number of sessions vary depending on the specific ingredients used and the individual's skin condition. This is an area where there can be significant individual differences.
Unlike immediate volume gains, the effect is gradual, as new collagen is produced over a period of weeks or months. This means that the results are often noticeable over a longer timeframe, and the degree of improvement can vary from person to person.
Although rare, there have been instances where nodules or foreign body reactions appeared years after the procedure, in locations other than the treated area.
Although this is uncommon, it is important to discuss your medical history thoroughly during the initial consultation.
First, the cause of the wrinkles and the patient's skin condition are assessed during the consultation. Based on this assessment, a customized treatment plan is then developed.
During the consultation, you will receive guidance on the treatment method that is most suitable for your specific condition. However, the results may vary from person to person.
Mihee injections are more akin to a procedure that allows the skin to naturally recover over time, rather than a quick fix for wrinkles.
The Mihee injection used in the treatment of wrinkles essentially works by stimulating cells in the dermis, which in turn helps to gradually produce collagen.
If you are unsure whether filler or Mihee injection is the best option for your specific wrinkles, we recommend scheduling a consultation at LUNN Clinic to discuss your needs.
Dr. Park Hyungkwon, Director and Dermatologist at LUNN Clinic
As disclosed under Article 56 of the Medical Service Act, this procedure may cause side effects such as swelling, bruising, temporary injection marks, and, rarely, delayed nodules or foreign-body reactions.
Treatment and procedure results may vary depending on the individual’s condition.
This column is intended to provide medical information.
