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In the world of aesthetics, “Permanence” has always been the most sought after but hardest to reach holy grail. For those who are tired of classic fillers melting in 6 months, scientists have developed a technology that is both safe and lasts for years: PCL Filling (Polycaprolactone). This miraculous molecule, popularly known as “Smart Filler”, not only fills the gaps, but also enables your skin to renew itself by ordering it to “rejuvenate”.
Istanbul Nisantasi Medlook Polyclinic PCL Filler, one of the most prestigious “Regenerative” treatments we offer to our patients, is the future of aesthetic medicine. Why? Because this filler stays as long as you want. 1 year or 4 years? The choice is yours. In this comprehensive guide, What is PCL filling, We explain how it works and why it is called “Smart” in its simplest form, without getting bogged down in medical jargon.
What is PCL (Polycaprolactone)?
PCL is a biodegradable polymer that has been used in medicine for many years (e.g. in dissolving sutures, orthopedic implants). This means that the body recognizes it, accepts it and, when the time comes, completely converts it into water and carbon dioxide and disposes of it. It never leaves any permanent “garbage” in the body.
PCL Dolgu (Örn: Ellanse), %30 PCL mikro-kürecikleri ve %70 taşıyıcı jelden (CMC) oluşur. Bu ikili yapı, ona eşsiz bir güç verir:
- CMC Gel (Instant Effect): The moment it is injected, it acts like a classic filler, smoothing wrinkles and giving volume. You will see the result when you leave the clinic.
- PCL Globules (Long Term Impact): When the gel starts to dissolve, the PCL takes over. It stimulates fibroblasts under the skin, which will replace the gel. Type 1 Collagen weaves his web.
Why is it called “Smart Filling”?
The reason for this name is that the lifespan of the filler is programmable. By changing the chain length of the PCL molecules, how long it stays in the body can be adjusted in the laboratory. At Medlook, we offer our patients 4 different options:
- S (Short): ~1 Year Persistence
- M (Medium): ~2 Years Persistence
- L (Long): ~3 Years Persistence
- E (Extra Long): ~4 Years Persistence
Whichever option you choose, the result is just as natural. Only the duration changes.
PCL Fillers vs. Other Fillers: Difference Table
Why choose PCL instead of a classic filling? Here are the differences:
| Feature | Hyaluronic Acid (Classic) | PCL Filler (Smart) |
|---|---|---|
| Main Article | Gel (Water retention) | Biopolymer (Collagen stimulator) |
| Persistence | 6-12 Months | 1-4 Years (Selectable) |
| Collagen Production | None or Very Little | Very High (Type 1 Collagen) |
| Volume Capacity | High | High |
| Cost | Low Initial Cost | High Initial, Low Annual Cost |
Clinical Uses: Where to Apply?
PCL Filler is used to strengthen the “skeleton” of the face and open deep wrinkles. The most ideal areas according to Medlook protocols:
- Take it: To fill in deep horizontal lines and make the forehead look bulbous (more feminine) (should be applied carefully).
- Temples To fill in age-related depressions.
- Cheekbones For lifting the face up (Lifting).
- Nasolabial Furrows To erase deep lines on the side of the nose.
- Chin and Jawline: To create sharp lines and bring the chin forward.
- Hand Top: To rejuvenate aging hands.
Warning: PCL Filler; lips and under the eyes (tear trough) NOT DONE. Soft hyaluronic acid fillers should be preferred for these areas.
Is PCL Filler Safe? Are There Side Effects?
PCL (Ellanse) is FDA and CE approved. Since it is biocompatible, it does not require an allergy test. However, since it is an irreversible (non-meltable) filler, it must be done in expert hands. You cannot dissolve and destroy it with a needle (hyaluronidase) like hyaluronic acid; you have to wait for it to expire. That is why we work with the principle of “Right Patient, Right Dose” at Medlook.
Who Should Have PCL Fillers?
If you are tired of having fillers all the time, if you have a needle phobia or if you say “Let me have it once and it will last for years”, PCL is ideal for you. PCL is a savior especially for people whose metabolism is fast and who dissolve classical fillers quickly (athletes, thyroid patients). For detailed candidate analysis Who is PCL Filler Suitable for? you can check our guide.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When it is first applied, it has the consistency of a gel, then it integrates with the tissue through collagen production. When viewed or touched from the outside, no hardness is felt, it is only noticed that the skin is firmer and fuller.
Yes. At the end of the period you choose (e.g. 2 years), the filler is completely converted into water and carbon dioxide and excreted from the body. It leaves no residue behind. Only the collagen tissue it produces remains with you.
PCL filler is usually mixed with lidocaine (local anesthetic). This way, no pain is felt during the procedure. There may be a slight tenderness afterwards.
PLLA does not give volume immediately, it works within months. PCL, on the other hand, both gives instant volume and produces collagen in the long term. So PCL offers "Speed + Persistence". For detailed comparison PLLA or PCL? You can check our article.
Appointment and Contact
It is in your hands to manage time. Instead of making a filling appointment every 6 months, would you like to meet the Smart Filling technology that defies the years? Medlook Polyclinic’s center in Nişantaşı, Istanbul, let's map your face and choose the most suitable “Permanence Plan” (S, M, L or E) together.
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