Studio Ciobanu uses the Clarius high-frequency portable ultrasound scanner to support the assessment and safety of aesthetic medicine treatments. The examination is carried out and interpreted personally by Dr Alexandrina Ciobanu, Medical Director of the practice, who holds a Second-Level Master’s in Aesthetic Medicine (University of Camerino and University of Turin).
At the practice, ultrasound is used to map the blood vessels and anatomical structures of the face before an injection treatment; to check the presence, position and condition of previous fillers, including those carried out elsewhere; to assess the thickness and quality of the skin and subcutaneous tissues in order to personalise the plan; and to check the tissues at follow-up visits, when clinically indicated. It is intended to support aesthetic treatments and does not replace specialist diagnostic tests, if these are needed.
The images make it possible to study the position and depth of visible vessels, muscles and fat compartments, distinguishing the tissue planes. This information helps in choosing the entry point and treatment plane, taking individual anatomical differences into account. In ultrasound, Doppler modes can add information on blood flow. Whether a vessel can be seen also depends on its size and depth, the settings and the examination technique: the absence of a signal does not on its own prove the absence of a vessel or of a circulatory problem.
Among the general possibilities of the technique, the examination can help locate filler deposits and assess their depth, distribution and relationship with the surrounding tissues. If available, bring the product name, date and documentation of previous sessions. During a guided procedure, ultrasound can help follow the needle or cannula and observe the deposition of the product; a subsequent check can help assess its position. Guidance requires the relevant structures to be actually visible and interpretable, and it does not guarantee correct placement in every circumstance.
The general applications of ultrasound include visualising muscles and supporting targeted injections, when appropriate. The relationship with nearby structures can be assessed and muscle thickness measured, for example of the masseter. Comparisons carried out in a consistent way can document changes over time. The image alone does not establish the indication for botulinum toxin, and a change in thickness does not automatically equal a clinical benefit. Treatment areas and methods are defined during the consultation.
Skin ultrasound can provide information on the thickness and appearance of the tissues, useful to complement clinical photographs and the visit. The parameters studied include the SLEB, a subepidermal low-echogenic band: it appears as a darker area beneath the epidermis and has also been studied in relation to photoageing. However, it is not an unequivocal measure of skin age or of the effectiveness of a treatment. The site, the characteristics of the tissues and the acquisition conditions affect the reading. Comparing examinations before and after treatment requires reproducible methods and clinical interpretation; the images can document changes without proving on their own the cause or the extent of the benefit.
In the presence of nodules, suspected migration of the product or a possible vascular problem, ultrasound can contribute to the assessment. The images do not always identify the nature of a nodule or confirm a granuloma. In specialist settings they can also support targeted procedures, such as the guided administration of hyaluronidase for problems related to hyaluronic acid; this general possibility does not constitute a promise of treatment or resolution at the practice. Severe or increasing pain, changes in skin colour or visual disturbances after an injection require urgent medical attention, without waiting for a normal appointment.
The probe is placed on the skin with a gel that helps the ultrasound pass through. The images are displayed in real time on the wirelessly connected device. The external scan is non-invasive and does not use ionising radiation; it should be distinguished from any injection treatment. At the practice it can be carried out in the same room as the consultation or treatment. The duration depends on the area and the purpose of the assessment. When you contact us you will receive the information you need for your appointment.
The ultrasound assessment linked to an aesthetic medicine treatment carried out at the practice is offered free of charge. If requested separately, without a treatment at the practice, it costs from €80 and is not included in the visit. From Monday to Friday you can book via the online form, call the main number +39 349 851 4476 or the landline +39 02 3928 3740, or write on WhatsApp to +39 349 851 4476. On Saturdays bookings can only be made by telephone on +39 02 3928 3740.
Dr Alexandrina Ciobanu, Medical Director of the practice, personally carries out and interprets the examination.
The ultrasound assessment linked to an aesthetic medicine treatment carried out at the practice is offered free of charge. If requested separately, without a treatment at the practice, it costs from €80 and is not included in the visit.
No. The images help locate the material and can guide its identification, together with the history of previous treatments.
No. It provides additional information to plan and guide the treatment, but it does not eliminate the risk of complications.
Studio Ciobanu · Milan
Monday to Friday, 9:00–18:00, open throughout the day. Saturday by appointment, booked only by telephone on +39 02 3928 3740. Closed on Sunday. Second floor, lift and wheelchair access. Email: [email protected].