Lidocaine in facial harmonization: uses and precautions

Lidocaine is a local anesthetic of the amide group. It temporarily blocks nerve conduction in the area where it is applied, reducing the sensation of pain during and right after the procedure. It is one of the most widely used anesthetics in dentistry and medicine.

How does lidocaine appear in HOF?

• Built into the filler. Many hyaluronic acid gels already contain a small concentration of lidocaine, which makes the injection more comfortable, especially in sensitive areas such as the lips.
• Local anesthesia or regional block. In some protocols, the professional numbs the area before using a needle or cannula, depending on the technique and the rules of their professional council.
• In topical formulations. Anesthetic creams often contain lidocaine, alone or combined with other anesthetics.

The choice of route, product and amount is the decision of the qualified professional, after an assessment.

What precautions does it require?

The medical history should ask about allergy to local anesthetics, medication use, heart and liver disease, and pregnancy. True allergic reactions to amides are rare, but they exist. Systemic toxicity is possible when the total dose is excessive, including when several sources add up in the same visit.

One practical point: anesthesia reduces sensation and can mask pain as a warning sign. That is why other signs of a vascular complication, such as pallor and changes in skin color, need close attention during the injection. The topic is reviewed in safety and complications.

Also called: Xylocaine (brand name used popularly), lignocaine.