Profilostructure｜A Comprehensive Guide to Effects and Downtime
"I'm concerned about sagging cheeks."
"Sunken cheeks make you look tired."
"My nasolabial folds and marionette lines have become deeper."
I want hyaluronic acid injections, but I want to avoid that unnatural, injected look. What about Profhilo Structura?
Do you have any questions or concerns about ProfiloStruttura?
Hello. This is Smart Skin Clinic, a cosmetic dermatology practice.
This article provides a detailed explanation from a professional standpoint regarding the effects and characteristics of ProfiloStructure, its downtime, and how it differs from other treatments.
*If you would like to know specific items such as fees, you can jump to the table of contents below.
Chairman of Smart Skin Clinic Group
stone Kouta
career
Graduated from Juntendo University School of Medicine
Tokyo Women's Medical University Hospital and related facilities
Worked at a major beauty clinic in Tokyo
Affiliation / Qualifications
Japan Surgical Society Specialist
Japanese Society of Anti-Aging Medicine
Profilostructure
Profhilo Structura is an injectable treatment and formulation designed for facial fat tissue restructuring (lipostructuring).
The next-generation hyaluronic acid "ProFilo" series injection has obtained the CE mark as a medical device compliant with European safety standards. It is approved in the EU for the indication of repairing and improving adipose tissue.
By concentrating injections primarily in the shallow fat layer from the front of the ear to the outer cheek, we target the fat tissue that is one of the causes of concerns related to aging.
With aging, the facial skeleton, ligaments, muscles, subcutaneous fat, and skin each undergo changes.
Fat tissue shrinks with age (atrophy) and sags due to gravity, affecting the skin above it.
In particular, when fat that should be positioned high on the cheeks is lost and shifts downward, sunken cheeks, sagging, jowls, nasolabial folds, and marionette lines become more noticeable.
Profilostructura (Structura = structure) is a treatment that, as its name suggests, supports the structure of fat tissue altered by aging, aiming to restore volume and firmness from within.
Differences from conventional hyaluronic acid injections
Profilostructura is a formulation composed of hyaluronic acid, but it differs significantly from conventional hyaluronic acid formulations.
| Profilostructure | Conventional hyaluronic acid | |
| Purpose | Reconstruction and Regeneration of Adipose Tissue | Filling grooves and depressions / Adding volume |
| mechanism | Activate one's own organization | Physically fill |
| finish | Extremely natural. The body heals itself. | Sharp line formation, instantaneous swelling |
| Crosslinking agent | nashi (Pyrus pyrifolia, esp. var. culta) | ant |
| adaptation | Full-face contouring, natural lift | Nose and chin reshaping, filling deep wrinkles |
| Demerit | The effect is gradual | If you add too much, it will look unnatural. |
Unlike conventional hyaluronic acid, which acts as a filler, ProfhiloStructure is a treatment that aims for a natural lift by promoting tissue restructuring.
Using our proprietary NAHYCO® technology without cross-linking agents, we stabilize both high- and low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid through heat treatment. This aims for a natural finish that minimizes lumpiness and unnatural swelling.
Differences from Profilo
Profilostructura is a formulation that represents a further evolution of the conventional Profilostructura.
| Profilostructure | PROFHILO injection | |
| Primary Purpose | Lipostructuring | Skin Rejuvenation |
| Target audience | superficial fat layer | dermal layer |
| Expected Benefits | Improve sagging and volume loss, lift and firm | Improve skin firmness, radiance, and elasticity; reduce fine lines |
| Hyaluronic acid concentration | 90mg/2ml | 64mg / 2ml |
| Recommended for | For those concerned about sunken cheeks, nasolabial folds, and sagging fat | For those concerned about dry skin, fine lines, and loss of firmness |
| Injection Method | A method of injecting into specific points corresponding to the fat layer | BAP Injection Method into the Superficial Dermis (10 Points) |
| injection site | Face | Face, neck, and back of the hands |
While traditional Profhilo excels at "overall skin quality enhancement," Profhilo Structura is a treatment that excels at "volume improvement from the fat layer." It retains Profhilo's characteristic "soft and uniform spread," while the increased hyaluronic acid content also offers enhanced moisture retention and elasticity support.
The two products have a complementary relationship. By selecting the appropriate treatment based on specific concerns—such as using Profhilo for skin texture improvement and Profhilo Structura for volume loss and deep wrinkles—more effective results can be achieved.
For more information about Profilo, please refer to the following article.
Differences from Profilo Body
The Profhilo series also includes "Profhilo Body," specifically designed for skin laxity on the body.
While both belong to the Profhilo series, Structura targets the "facial structure (fat layer)," while Body specializes in "skin tightening for the body." For more details about Profhilo Body, please refer to the article below.
Effects of Profilo Structure
- Improvement of the Gorger Line and Midface Hollows
- Reduction of nasolabial folds and marionette lines
- Improving sunken cheeks and a gaunt appearance
- Improvement of skin elasticity and firmness
- Natural volume enhancement
Effects on the cheeks and jawline
The cheeks and nasolabial folds are the areas where Profhilo Structure excels most.
The fat in the central cheek area is prone to loss of volume with aging. When this area becomes thinner, a line called the "Gorgon line" appears under the eyes, instantly giving an aged or tired impression.
By injecting into the fat layer of this area, the environment of the fat tissue is optimized, restoring plump, naturally rounded cheeks from within and minimizing the appearance of the nasolabial folds.
Effect on nasolabial folds and marionette lines
Nasolabial folds and marionette lines (the grooves below the corners of the mouth) appear as deep "wrinkles" or "shadows" due to sagging cheek fat and its weight.
Profilostructure is not a treatment that directly injects into and "fills" these grooves. Instead, it lifts the underlying cause—the sagging of cheek fat—by reconstructing the fat tissue.
As the foundation lifts, the weight from above is relieved, resulting in shallower, less noticeable nasolabial folds and marionette lines.
Furthermore, regarding the efficacy of Profhilo for fat tissue repair, even in cases where it was used to restore the homeostasis of fat tissue that declines with age, the effects were sustained from immediately after treatment through to 6 months, with reports of natural results and high satisfaction.
Cassuto, D., Cigni, C., Bellia, G., & Schiraldi, C. (2023). Restoring adipose tissue homeostasis in response to aging: Initial clinical experience with Profhilo Structura®. Gels, 9(8), 614. doi:10.3390/gels9080614
Comparison and Combination with Other Sagging Treatments
We've compiled a list of representative sagging treatments compared to Profhilo Structura. The most suitable treatment varies depending on your goals. (※Please note: Our clinic does not offer HIFU treatments.)
| Comparison items | Profilostructure | thread lifting | HIFU(Hyphen) |
| Target audience | fat layer | Subcutaneous tissue (near ligaments) | SMAS, subcutaneous, dermis (depending on device and output) |
| Primary Purpose | Optimize the environment of the fat layer and compensate for volume loss | Physically lifts and provides support using thread with barbs / Stimulates fibroblasts → Increases collagen production | Tightening with focal thermal coagulation |
| Specialized Concerns | Cheek fat loss / Midface hollows | Facial contour sagging, nasolabial folds and marionette lines, V-line shaping | Loosening of the facial contour, sagging of the skin and subcutaneous tissue |
| Finish Characteristics | A subtle, natural change that minimizes the feeling of being applied | Immediately after the procedure, you can easily feel the lifting effect (natural results become apparent after the downtime) | Within a few weeks, you'll gradually start to feel the firming effect. |
| Onset of Effect | Peak in approximately 2 weeks to 1-2 months | Immediately after / Within 1-2 weeks, the swelling subsides naturally. | Several weeks |
| Approximate duration | 6 to 12 months | Approximately 6 months to 1 year (varies depending on thread material) | Several months (varies by device and output) |
| Estimated Downtime | 24 to 48 hours (redness, swelling, bruising) | Several days to 2 weeks (swelling, puffiness, bruising) | Same day to several days (mild swelling, tenderness, etc.) |
| Pain Guide | Mild to moderate | Moderate (anesthesia is generally used) | Mild to moderate |
| Main Risks | Bruising, swelling, and rarely infection | Asymmetry, suture exposure/infection, unevenness, tightness | Risks of over-irradiation such as nerve and fat reduction (device-dependent) |
| Guideline for the appropriate direction | For those who want to restore natural dimension / smooth out moss and dents | People who want to quickly lift their facial contours | People who want to tighten up |
| Combination Methods (Example) | - | ① Thread → ② Profhilo Structure 2–4 weeks later | ① HIFU → ② Profhilo Structure 2–4 weeks later |
For more information about thread lifts, please refer to the following article.
Smart Skin Clinic Fees
| frequency (2 cc per vial) | Until December 31reduced price (20% off) | per cc Price |
|---|---|---|
| one (object) | ¥130,000 | 65,000 yen |
| two (long cylindrical things) | 220,000 yen (1 unit: ¥110,000)) | 55,000 yen |
| three (long cylindrical things) | 300,000 yen (1 unit: ¥100,000) | 50,000 yen |
| four (long cylindrical things) | ¥360,000 (One unit: ¥90,000) | 45,000 yen |
We are a free clinic and not covered by insurance.
Timeframe for Effect and Duration
Regarding Profhilo, many people are likely wondering "When will I see results?" and "How long will the effects last?"
When can I start seeing results?
The effects of Profhilo Structure typically appear approximately two weeks after treatment and reach their peak within one to two months.
The effect typically manifests in stages.
【【Immediately after treatment to 1 week】
Immediately after injection, the formulation provides a physical volume-enhancing effect, but this is temporary.
Mild swelling may occur at the injection site for 2 to 3 days, during which time the actual effect may be difficult to discern.
【【2 weeks to 1 month】
Around this time, the true effects begin to gradually appear.
Many people notice their skin gradually gaining firmness from within during this period. You'll also find it easier to notice changes in texture when you touch your skin.
【【1 to 2 months】
This is the time when the effect peaks.
Collagen and elastin production becomes more active, improving the overall texture of the skin. This is the period when you can most noticeably experience improvements in sagging and volume enhancement.
【【After three months】
The effects persist even after reaching their peak. Because the tissue itself is improved, a natural youthful appearance is maintained.
How long does the effect last?
The effects of ProfiloStructure generally last for about 6 to 12 months.
This is the result of promoting "regeneration within your own tissue," differing from the sensation of conventional hyaluronic acid products where "the formulation is absorbed and returns to its original state." Even after the formulation is absorbed, the improved state tends to be maintained to a certain degree.
Recommended number of treatments and maintenance intervals
The timing for ProfiloStructure treatments is as follows:
Regular maintenance can help slow down age-related changes and maintain a more youthful appearance.
- Initial Course: Treatments are performed in sets of two, spaced 1 to 2 months apart.
- Maintenance: Continue treatments every six months or twice a year.
Injection Method and Injection Point
Whereas the conventional Profhilo used the "BAP (Bio-Aesthetic Point) method" involving shallow injections at 10 points across the entire face, Profhilo Structura involves injections at deeper, more targeted points.
Targeting the specific fat layer responsible for sagging and hollow cheeks, we concentrate injections using ultra-fine needles at 2-3 points per side of the face (e.g., below the zygomatic arch, mid-cheek area, etc.).
About Pain During Treatment
The pain experienced during ProfiloStructura injection consists of a pricking sensation when the needle is inserted and a feeling of pressure as the solution is injected.
The number of needle insertions is minimal, and the insertion site is in a layer where pain is less likely to be felt.
At our clinic, we generally consider Profhilo Structure treatments to require no anesthesia. While individual experiences vary, most patients describe the discomfort as "tolerable."
However, for those who are sensitive to pain or experience significant anxiety, we offer the option of anesthetic cream (additional fee). If you wish to use this, please discuss it during your consultation.
Symptoms and duration of downtime
ProfiloStructure is known as a treatment with relatively minimal downtime.
- Downtime period: Typically within 24 hours, maximum within 48 hours
- Primary symptoms: Swelling, redness, and tenderness at the injection site; discomfort or tightness; bruising.
The swelling immediately after injection gradually subsides, and any redness, swelling, or discomfort typically resolves within a few days. To reduce pain and swelling, intermittent cooling is recommended.
The bruising will gradually fade while changing color and should subside within 1 to 2 weeks. While it can be covered with makeup, we recommend completing the procedure at least 2 weeks prior to any important events.
Side Effects and Risks
Profilostructure is a relatively safe treatment.
However, as it is an injection treatment, it is impossible to completely eliminate the following side effects and risks.
Rare side effects and complications
- Infection: Bacteria enter through the injection site, causing persistent redness, swelling, pain, and heat (preventable with proper disinfection and hygiene management).
- Allergic reactions: Allergic reactions to the formulation (risk is extremely low due to non-crosslinked hyaluronic acid)
- Vascular embolism: A serious complication that occurs extremely rarely when the formulation enters the bloodstream.
- Granuloma formation: Although rare due to the nature of the formulation, a hard lump may develop as a foreign body reaction (manageable with appropriate treatment).
If you experience any of the following symptoms after treatment, please contact the clinic immediately. These may indicate serious complications and require prompt attention.
- Severe pain, swelling, or heat sensation Worsening redness Changes in skin color (pale or purple) Vision problems or severe headache
Post-Treatment Care and Precautions
【Things to Avoid on the Day of Treatment】
- Intense exercise, prolonged bathing, saunas, and alcohol consumption: Improved blood circulation may worsen swelling or bruising.
- Massaging the injection site: This may cause the formulation to shift position or worsen swelling.
- Sleeping on your stomach: Pressure on the injection site can cause swelling.
- Smoking: Impairs tissue repair
- Dental Treatment: Avoid any stimulation around the mouth (if you have an appointment, complete it before treatment or wait at least two weeks).
【Recommended】
- Cooling: If you experience pain or swelling, intermittently applying a cold pack wrapped in a clean towel can help relieve the discomfort.
- Rest: Spend your time relaxing as much as possible.
- Sleep with your head elevated: Using a higher pillow can help reduce swelling.
- Hydration: Proper hydration promotes metabolism.
- Nutritionally balanced meals: Supports tissue repair
- Skin Care: Practice proper moisturizing and UV protection.
The Procedure for ProfiloStructure Treatment
You can easily make reservations with your mobile phone.
Click here to make a web reservation or book a free consultation.
This is a "smart" and easy receptionist service that can be completed immediately by the clinic's IT system by simply providing your name.
Please feel free to discuss any concerns you may have during the counseling session. Please be assured that there is no pushy sales.
After the marking is carried out, the injection is carried out while talking to the patient.
We will explain in detail about the care of the treated area and precautions for daily life. We also suggest appropriate home care from the viewpoint of prevention and maintenance, such as oral medicines and skin care cosmetics that can be expected to improve your problems.
More Information
| Treatment Time | 15-30 minutes (not including counseling) |
| Recommended number and frequency of treatments | ・It is recommended to have a second session 1 to 2 months after the initial treatment, as a set of two sessions. After that, maintenance is recommended about once every six months. |
| Down time | approximately 24 to 48 hours |
| Treatment on the day of counseling | Possible |
| Make | Possible immediately after the treatment |
| Skin care | Possible immediately after the treatment |
| Shower | Possible from the same day |
| Pain | There is a stinging pain when the needle is inserted. |
*There are individual differences.
[Legal description
Profilostructure treatments include procedures using pharmaceuticals or medical devices not approved in Japan. The pharmaceuticals and devices used for treatment are imported individually under the judgment of our physicians.
Please refer to this page for information on medicines, etc. that should be noted for personal importation.
Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, "Medicines, etc. that Require Caution in Personal Importation".
Individuals who cannot receive treatment (Contraindications)
Profilostructure is a highly safe treatment, but individuals who fall under the following categories cannot undergo the procedure or require thorough consultation with a physician.
Those who are not eligible for the treatment
- Pregnant or nursingDue to incomplete understanding of potential effects on fetuses and infants, treatment is not available for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals. Please consider treatment after breastfeeding has ended and your menstrual cycle has stabilized.
- Individuals with an allergy to hyaluronic acidIndividuals who have experienced severe allergic reactions to hyaluronic acid injections in the past are not eligible for treatment.
- Individuals with infection or inflammation at the intended injection siteIf you have acne, shingles, or a skin infection, please wait until it is completely healed before receiving treatment.
- Individuals with severe bleeding disordersIndividuals with blood clotting disorders such as hemophilia cannot undergo this procedure due to an increased risk of internal bleeding.
Those who need to consult with a doctor
- Individuals currently taking anticoagulants or antiplatelet agentsPatients taking warfarin, aspirin, or clopidogrel are at increased risk of bleeding. You should consult your primary care physician to determine if temporary discontinuation of these medications is possible.
- People with diabetesPoor blood glucose control may increase the risk of infection and delay wound healing. This is determined based on HbA1c levels and the state of blood glucose control.
- Individuals with impaired liver or kidney functionConsultation with your physician is necessary as this may affect the metabolism or excretion of medications. Depending on the severity of the condition, treatment may still be possible.
- Keloidal constitutionIndividuals prone to raised scars may experience abnormal reactions after injection, requiring careful consideration.
- Persons with autoimmune diseasesPatients with autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), scleroderma, or rheumatoid arthritis tend to have unpredictable tissue reactions.
FAQ
- Does ProfiloStructure hurt?
-
Pain tolerance varies from person to person, but it is generally manageable without anesthesia. For those with a low pain threshold or significant anxiety, we also offer an anesthetic cream option (¥5,500 including tax). Please consult with us.
- How many sessions will it take to see results?
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You can feel the effects even after just one session, but the results are not permanent, so maintenance is required.
- Can it be combined with other treatments?
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Yes, it can be combined with many cosmetic treatments such as Botox and beauty drips. If you are considering combining treatments, the design of the sequence and intervals is important, so please consult with your doctor during your consultation.
- Can I apply makeup immediately after the treatment?
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You may resume activities immediately after treatment. Washing your face is also possible on the same day, but please do so gently. We recommend avoiding strong cosmetic products (such as those with high retinol content or peeling agents) for 2 to 3 days.
- How long does the effect last?
-
The effects of Profhilo last for approximately 6 to 12 months. However, the duration varies from person to person.
- Are there any side effects?
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Profilostructure is a relatively safe treatment, but in rare cases, side effects such as infection or allergic reactions may occur.
- Are you concerned about allergies?
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Profilostructura is a formulation with an extremely low risk of allergic reactions. However, individuals with hyaluronic acid allergies cannot receive it.
- Will it form a lump after injection?
-
Profilostructura is a non-crosslinked hyaluronic acid formulation that spreads uniformly over a wide area, making it less prone to forming lumps.
Profilostructure at Smart Skin Clinic
Profilostructura is an injectable treatment recommended for those concerned about sunken cheeks and sagging. Its non-crosslinked hyaluronic acid formulation works by improving the environment of the fat layer, promoting natural volume enhancement.
Smart Skin Clinic is a cosmetic dermatology practice with over 10,000 annual injection-based procedures. We offer formulations tailored to various concerns, including wrinkles, the eye area, and acne scars. Our streamlined operations enable a smart pricing structure. We do not engage in aggressive upselling on the day of your appointment.
If you're troubled by sunken cheeks or sagging skin, or if you're unsure about treatments or product selection, please feel free to consult with us.
Reference
Clinic List
Jimbocho Institute
〒101-0054
EX Kanda Nishiki-cho Building 8F (general reception), 3-16-1 Kanda Nishiki-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 7F
Business hours: Monday-Friday 11:00-20:00 / Saturday and Sunday 10:00-19:00
Yokohama Institute of Technology
〒221-0835
TS Plaza Bldg. 2F, 2-23-2 Tsuruya-cho, Kanagawa-ku, Yokohama-shi, Kanagawa
Business hours: 10:00-19:00
About the physician supervision of this site
This site is operated under the supervision of a physician supervised by Smart Skin Clinic.
This page was revised and enacted in June 2018. Medical Advertising Guidelines We produce and provide information based on
- Scope of supervision: treatment description, risks and side effects, price labeling
- Last supervision date: June 26, 2025