Bolus Technique
Pronunciation: BOH-lus
An injection method in which a full volume of filler or other injectate is deposited in a single depot at one point, as opposed to being distributed along a linear track.
Full Definition
The bolus technique is one of several standard injection methods used in aesthetic medicine, in which the needle or cannula is advanced to the target depth and the full intended volume is deposited as a single, concentrated depot before the needle is withdrawn. It is contrasted with linear threading (retrograde or anterograde), serial puncture, and fanning techniques. The method is commonly used for deep volumisation—for example, at the malar eminence or chin projection point. In procedural records, marketing materials, and training manuals, 'bolus' should be used specifically for this depot injection method. Editors must not conflate it with the 'serial puncture' technique, which involves multiple small deposits along a line.
Usage
Usage note: Use 'bolus technique' specifically; do not use 'bolus' loosely to mean any single injection. In compound phrases, no hyphen is required: 'bolus technique', not 'bolus-technique'.
In Context
- "A bolus technique was used to place 0.3 mL of filler at the deep subcutaneous plane of the malar region." — Procedure note
- "The training manual illustrates the bolus technique as distinct from the retrograde threading approach." — Practitioner training manual