Dermal Fillers

Fillers, also known as dermal fillers or soft tissue fillers, are a type of cosmetic treatment that involves injecting a gel-like substance under the skin to add volume and smooth out wrinkles, fine lines and other facial imperfections.

The gel-like substance is usually made of hyaluronic acid, which is a naturally occurring substance in the body that helps to hydrate and plump the skin. It can also be made of other materials such as calcium hydroxyapatite, polycaprolactone, or poly-L-lactic acid, depending on the specific treatment goals.

Fillers are commonly used to treat wrinkles and sagging of skin around cheeks, jowl, nasolabial folds and marionette lines. It can also be used to add volume to cheeks, lips, and under-eye area, improve the appearance of scars, enhance facial contours and rejuvenate the skin's texture.

The treatment is relatively quick and straightforward, with minimal discomfort and downtime. Patients usually see the full effects of the treatment within a few days and can expect the results to last for up to a year or more depending on the type of filler used and the specific treatment area.

The Benefits of Dermal Fillers

Restoring volume: As we age, our skin loses its natural elasticity and volume, leading to wrinkles and sagging. Dermal fillers can help replace this lost volume, creating a plumper, more youthful appearance.

  1. Reducing wrinkles and fine lines: Dermal fillers can smooth out wrinkles and fine lines by filling in the creases and folds, resulting in a more refreshed look.

  2. Enhancing facial contours: Dermal fillers can be used to enhance facial features such as cheekbones, jawlines, and lips, creating a more balanced and attractive appearance.

  3. Minimal downtime: Since dermal fillers are a non-surgical treatment, there is little to no downtime involved, allowing you to return to your daily activities shortly after the procedure.

  4. Long-lasting results: The results of dermal fillers can last anywhere from 6 to 18 months, depending on the type of filler used and the area treated. Some fillers even stimulate collagen production, leading to longer-lasting improvements.

The Dermal Filler Journey

Step 1: Initial Consultation

During the initial consultation, we assess your skin concerns, discuss your treatment goals and determine if dermal fillers are the right treatment for you. We take a detailed medical history, evaluate your skin type and condition and answer any questions you may have about the procedure. We also assess your facial anatomy so we can determine the most appropriate filler type and injection sites for your specific needs.

If dermal fillers are deemed suitable, we will create a personalised treatment plan for you.

Step 2: Pre-treatment

Before the treatment, you will be advised to avoid alcohol, smoking, and certain medications that may increase the risk of bruising or complications. It's important to follow these pre-treatment instructions to ensure the best possible results. We will also provide you with any additional pre-treatment care instructions specific to your case.

Step 3: Treatment

On the day of the treatment, we cleanse the treatment area to remove any makeup, dirt, or oil. Precise injection points are determined on your face. A topical or local anaesthetic may be applied to the injection site.

Using a fine needle or cannula, dermal filler is injected into the targeted area.

The filler will immediately begin to fill in wrinkles and creases or add volume to the desired areas. The injection process may take anywhere from 20 to 60 minutes, depending on the number of areas being treated.

After the injections, we may gently massage the treated area to help distribute the filler evenly and achieve a natural look. This also helps to minimise the risk of lumps or unevenness.

Step 4: Aftercare

Following the treatment, you may experience some redness, swelling, or bruising at the injection sites. These side effects are generally mild and subside within a week. You will be provided with aftercare instructions, such as avoiding sun exposure, applying ice packs to minimise swelling, and refraining from strenuous exercise for a brief period. You may also be advised to sleep with your head elevated to minimise swelling.

Step 5: Follow-up

We'll typically schedule a follow-up appointment within 2-4 weeks to assess your results, address any concerns, and determine if any additional treatments are necessary.

Step 6: Maintenance

Dermal fillers can last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years, depending on the filler type and individual factors.

Dermal fillers are temporary. Their effects will gradually wear off over time as the body naturally metabolises the filler material. The maintenance process usually involves periodic touch-up injections and adherence to a recommended skincare regimen. This includes using a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily, moisturising regularly, and using gentle cleansers and exfoliants. A healthy skincare routine can help maintain the integrity of your skin, ensuring that the filler results last as long as possible.

FAQs

  • Dermal fillers are injectable substances that help to restore volume and smooth out wrinkles, fine lines, and other signs of aging in the face. They are made of hyaluronic acid, a natural substance found in the body that helps to keep the skin hydrated and elastic.

  • Dermal fillers work by restoring lost volume and smoothing out wrinkles and fine lines in the skin. They are injected into specific areas of the face, such as the cheeks, lips, and under the eyes, and work to add volume and fill in hollow areas. The effects of dermal fillers can last for several months to a year, depending on the specific product used.

  • Yes, dermal fillers are generally considered safe when administered by a qualified and experienced medical professional. It is important to choose a provider who has extensive training and experience in dermal filler injections, as well as a thorough understanding of facial anatomy and aesthetics.

  • Dermal fillers can be used to treat a variety of areas on the face, including the cheeks, lips, nasolabial folds (lines from the nose to the mouth), marionette lines (lines from the mouth to the chin), and under the eyes.

  • The effects of dermal fillers can vary depending on the specific product used and the area of the face being treated. In general, most dermal fillers last anywhere from six months to 1.5 years.

  • Most patients can return to their normal activities immediately after receiving dermal fillers, although some may experience mild swelling or bruising at the injection site. This typically resolves within a week.

  • The length of the dermal filler procedure can vary depending on the areas being treated and the amount of filler needed. In general, most procedures take anywhere from 20-60 minutes to complete.

  • Most patients will require multiple treatments in order to achieve their desired results. This is because the effects of dermal fillers are not permanent and will eventually wear off over time.

  • As with any medical procedure, there is a risk of side effects with dermal fillers. Some patients may experience mild swelling, bruising, or redness at the injection site. More serious side effects such as infection, vascular occlusion or allergic reaction are rare but can occur.

  • Yes, dermal fillers can be combined with other cosmetic treatments such as anti-wrinkle injections, chemical peels, and laser resurfacing to achieve a more comprehensive facial rejuvenation However, it is generally advised to space out these procedures over time.

  • Good candidates for dermal fillers are generally healthy individuals who are looking to improve the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and other signs of aging in the face. It is important to have realistic expectations and to understand the limitations of dermal fillers.