"I knew I wanted to have some work done, but I wanted to know I was in good hands. I sought impartial advice and met with Wendy Lewis, the New York aesthetic consultant. She recommended Dr Rakus - she was right. I know I'm in safe hands and my treatments have been effective without side effects and have drawn many compliments".
Suzan B.P. 15.12.05
"Since I started my treatment with Dr. Rakus I can now look people in the face. My confidence has soared!"
J.S. 03.07.06
“ Over the years Dr. Rakus has kept me going - I don’t know what I would do without her! Part of her charisma is her cool, confident and quiet approach to every treatment I have had and, as a mark of the trust I place in her I am having a Thermage treatment today."
A.S. 25.07.06
Frequently Asked Questions
FREE CONSULTATION call +44 (0) 20 7460 7324 or contact Dr Rita Rakus
Visit our Macrolane page
What is Macrolane™?
Macrolane - the first body shaping treatment using hyaluronic acid. It is based on Q-Med's unique patented NASHA™ technology (Stabilized Non-Animal Hyaluronic Acid) which has been used in over 10 million treatments in over 70 countries worldwide. Use of NASHA has been clinically proven and well documented in facial aesthetics for over 12 years
What is NASHA™?
Stabilized, Non-Animal Hyaluronic Acid (NASHA) is unique to Q-Med, manufacturers of Macrolane. Naturally occurring hyaluronic acid (HA) undergoes a process where less than one percent is stabilized to form a permanent three-dimensional HA network without damaging the original chemical structure. This means that the body recognizes the gel as its own. As a result the NASHA gel that carries minimal risk of allergic reaction or transmission of infectious substances and enables a longer durability.
What are the benefits of Macrolane to patients?
Market research has shown there to be a significant number of women who would like to adjust the shape of their body in a natural, non-permanent way that does not involve the use of implants or body fat in a major surgical procedure. Many women are also very hesitant about undergoing general anaesthesia or being left with a scar. With Macrolane, the procedure is short and requires only local anaesthetic resulting in minimal downtime and time away from work or day to day activities.
What are the treatment indications for Macrolane?
Macrolane is an innovative product currently indicated for volume restoration and shaping of body surfaces, for example, breast shaping, the calves and buttocks. Macrolane can also even out discrepancies in the skin surface, for example, those caused by liposuction. Macrolane can also used to improve the appearance of deep, disfiguring surgical scars.
Can Macrolane VRF be used for breast shaping?
Yes, Macrolane is licensed
for breast shaping. Many physicians see advantages of using Macrolane
for breast shaping as opposed to more invasive techniques.
Macrolane for breast shaping is suitable for women whom have asymmetry,
loss of volume as a result of breast feeding or weight loss, or under-developed
breasts. Macrolane is particularly suited for women wishing to increase
by a cup size and seeking increased shape as opposed to breast augmentation.
Macrolane enables physicians to sculpt the breast to provide a very natural
breast enhancement.
Can Macrolane be used for facial aesthetic treatments?
No, Macrolane is a specifically formulated NASHA gel that gives increased volume. As a result it should only be used for volume restoration and shaping of body surfaces.
Can Macrolane cause breast cancer?
There has been no causal link found between Macrolane, which is composed of hyaluronic acid, a natural substance already found in the body, and cancer.
Will Macrolane interfere with the reading of mammograms to detect breast cancer or other breast defects?
Patient safety is a priority for Q-Med and the company has carried out clinical trials into the use of Macrolane for women undergoing mammography following breast shaping. Results of these clinical investigations show that Macrolane does not interfere with mammograms or obstruct the detection of breast defects. (1)
Can Macrolane be used in reconstructive surgery?
Macrolane does have potential for use in reconstruction in breast cancer patients post lumpectomy, as a stand alone treatment or in conjunction with other reconstructive procedures because of its moulding and shaping qualities. It is recommended that this special group of patients discuss all the treatment options with their breast reconstructive surgeon.
Is Macrolane safe?
No product can be said to be 100 per cent safe. However, Q-Med values patient safety above all else and has carried clinical trials on Macrolane to make it as safe and effective as possible. Q-Med will continue to carry out clinical trials on Macrolane as part of its ongoing commitment to research and development.
How is the Macrolane treatment performed?
General anaesthesia is not required and the procedure can be carried out in a clean environment similar to minor surgery.
How long does Macrolane last?
Macrolane is intended to last for 12-18 months. Each individual treatment programme will include a yearly top-up as required to maintain optimal treatment results.
What will a treatment with Macrolane cost?
Treatment cost is dependant on the area treated and the amount of product used.
The cost will further be relevant to the expertise and qualifications of the surgeons and the clinical environment where the procedure is performed. An informed decision should be considered based on the above rather than compromising your safety for a lower cost alternative.
How can I find a Macrolane expert?
Only physicians whom have undergone specific Macrolane training, provided by Q-Med, can use Macrolane. It is important that you ask to see their training certificate to check that the physician is able to carry out your treatment.
FREE CONSULTATION call +44 (0) 20 7460 7324 or contact Dr Rita Rakus
(1) Breast Augmentation with Stabilized Hyaluronic Acid Gel of Non Animal Origin: Visualisation of Tissue Behind the Implants - Mangnus Tengvar, Per Heden, Michael Olenius (Poster presented at IMCAS January 2008)
"My treatment made a fantastic difference, giving me back my youthful appearance thanks to the Lip Queen of London"
Melanie S., September 2003
"I can't get over all the comments I've had about how much
younger I'm looking and my friends can't put their finger on
it. " Have you had any surgery?" But they can't see the scars.
I'm thrilled!"
Shalani M.
“ Over the years Dr. Rakus has kept me going - I don’t know what I would do without her! Part of her charisma is her cool, confident and quiet approach to every treatment I have had and, as a mark of the trust I place in her I am having a Thermage treatment today."
A.S. 25.07.06
The new Restylane Lipp treatment gave my lips an amazingly natural and soft look.
They look beautiful and the treatment lasted for months. Really great.
Nora MC.
